Undergraduate Programs | University of Portland

Undergraduate Programs

The biology department offers bachelor of science (BS) and bachelor of arts (BA) degree programs to prepare students for careers as research scientists, health care practitioners, educators, and technical personnel in industry, government, and other organizations.

The BS in biology provides students with a comprehensive background in the biological sciences, along with extensive supporting coursework in chemistry, physics, and mathematics. The BA in biology provides more flexibility to allow students to combine their study of biology with additional coursework in other disciplines, such as psychology, business, education, theology, social sciences,communication, and more.

Several of our courses fulfill degree requirements for students majoring in nursing, education, biochemistry, environmental studies, and environmental engineering. Students in the environmental science program may choose a concentration in biology, and a biology minor may be combined with many different major programs. Biology faculty also participate in the University core curriculum, providing courses designed to enhance scientific literacy, an understanding of the potential and limitations of scientific methodology, and an appreciation for the role of science in contemporary life for all University graduates.