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Bachelor of Science

Biology

What will you do with a biology degree?

With a Bachelor of Science in Biology from WSU Vancouver, you’ll gain the knowledge and practical experience needed to pursue careers in healthcare, research, biotechnology, and environmental science. Through hands-on labs and undergraduate research, you’ll explore topics that prepare you for professional programs or immediate entry into the life sciences workforce.

You’ll study the structure, function, and behavior of living systems across multiple levels of organization. Coursework blends theory with hands-on labs and field experiences, helping you build scientific skills you can apply in research, healthcare, and environmental professions.

  • Investigate biological systems in both lab-based and real-world settings.
  • Design and conduct faculty-mentored research projects in laboratory and fieldwork.
  • Develop scientific skills in data analysis, experimental design, and communication.
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Degree Requirements
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Prospective Students

Find your personal admission counselor
Email Address van.admissions@wsu.edu
Phone (360) 546-9788

Current Students

Email Address van.casadvising@wsu.edu
LocationCollege of Arts and Sciences
Phone (360) 546-9620

Concentration options

General

Build a broad foundation in the life sciences, with flexibility to explore topics such as ecology, physiology, microbiology, genetics, and animal biology. This option is ideal if you want a versatile biology degree that can be tailored to your interests and career goals.

Medical Sciences

Designed for students pursuing health-related careers, this option emphasizes anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and biochemistry—providing strong preparation for medical, dental, veterinary, pharmacy, and other health professional programs.

The biology program at WSU Vancouver prepared me for admission to medical school and my future as a physician. I gained a strong foundation in anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and microbiology that has been essential to my success. The Pre-Health Club connected me with clinical skills training that I applied at the Free Clinic of Southwest Washington. WSU Vancouver gave me more than a path to medical school—it prepared me to make a difference as a physician.

Shawn Hamby, Class of 2025
MS1, WSU Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine

Life as a biology student at WSU Vancouver

In the biology program, you’ll be part of a close-knit, collaborative community where faculty know you by name and support your goals. Small class sizes make it easy to connect with professors, work alongside peers, and get personalized guidance as you explore career paths and research interests.

Student Life
You are there: Step into the Life Sciences Building

Learn biology under the microscope

You’ll typically take multiple lab courses each semester, applying what you learn through experiments, data analysis, and real-world observation in both lab and outdoor settings.
A big dream is coming true - By Sylvia Lindman, WSU Vancouver staff writer

Conduct research alongside faculty mentors

Many biology students work in active research labs or field projects, gaining experience in experimental design, scientific writing, and data analysis—with opportunities to present at conferences or co-author publications.

Get involved with extracurricular opportunities

Student organizations such as the Pre-Health and Pre-Dental Clubs offer clinical workshops, service projects, career exploration events, and leadership opportunities that extend learning beyond the classroom.

Careers with a biology degree

A Bachelor of Science in Biology from WSU Vancouver prepares you to enter the workforce or pursue graduate and professional education. Graduates go on to careers in:

  • Medicine, dentistry, and other health professions
  • Biotechnology and biomedical research
  • Conservation, ecology, and wildlife biology
  • Food science and microbiology
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