A group of biology students conducting hands-on fieldwork in a lush Oregon forest, examining plant and soil samples. The image highlights PSU’s focus on experiential learning in natural environments, with students wearing lab gear and faculty guiding the activity.

Undergraduate Program
Biology


Degree Details

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA)
    Total Credits
    180
    Start Term
    Any
    Delivery Method
    On Campus
  • Bachelor of Science (BS)
    Total Credits
    180
    Start Term
    Any
    Delivery Method
    On Campus
  • Minor
    Total Credits
    27-30
    Start Term
    Any
    Delivery Method
    On Campus

Learn more about our academic program delivery methods


Department Biology

Earn Your Biology Degree at Portland State University

Earn your biology degree at Portland State University and gain a strong foundation in the life sciences with hands-on labs, research, and fieldwork. Study in Portland’s urban center with access to OHSU, the Oregon Zoo, and Hoyt Arboretum. Prepare for careers in healthcare, research, conservation, or graduate programs with expert faculty and specialized courses.

Gain a strong foundation in biological sciences and develop important lab and field skills with a bachelor’s in biology from Portland State.

Why Choose a Biology Degree at PSU?

Whether you’re interested in jumping right into a career or taking the first step toward graduate or professional programs like medical or dental school, a Portland State University biology degree will prepare you to make a global impact through your work.

Biology Degree Specializations and Courses

Our adaptable major offers broad training in biological systems with the flexibility to choose a more specialized track. You can take classes in a variety of topics, including:

  • Cancer Biology
  • Genetics
  • Human Anatomy and Physiology
  • Marine Mammals
  • Plant Biology
  • Virology
  • Zoology

Perfect for Pre-Med Students

A biology degree from Portland State University is an excellent choice for pre-med, pre-dental, pre-pharmacy and other healthcare career pathways. Our curriculum provides the scientific foundation, hands-on research experience and clinical exposure needed for medical school and beyond.

Hands-On Learning: Labs, Research and Fieldwork

Our urban location in the heart of Oregon means you’re minutes away from Oregon Health & Science University, the Oregon Zoo and Hoyt Arboretum. You’ll take classes at the waterfront campus in the Robertson Life Sciences Building, a learning and research space shared with OHSU’s School of Dentistry and Oregon State’s College of Pharmacy. Our focus on career readiness and hands-on experiences means you’ll be ready when opportunities come up. 

As a Biology student at PSU, you’ll also enjoy hands-on lab, field and research experiences as part of your biology courses. For example, The Center for Life in Extreme Environments (CLEE) is housed at Portland State University and includes faculty members and students who study organisms from some of the most extreme habitats on Earth. 

Learn from Expert Faculty and Engage in Cutting-Edge Research

Our expert faculty are active in their field and collaborate with fellow researchers and institutions locally, nationally and internationally. From the depths of the ocean to Antarctica, their research interests span ecology and evolution, molecular and microbiology and life in extreme environments. They bring real-world perspectives into the classroom. Selected students join them to do biology research at PSU or for community partners. 

Connect and Engage: Student Clubs and Events

You can build your skills and connections outside class through clubs and student-focused events. You’ll engage with peers in the Bio Club and Plant Bio Science Club and learn more about current research through the weekly Lester Newman Seminar Series.

Careers in Biology and Graduate Opportunities with a Biology Degree

A degree in biology from PSU prepares you to find jobs in biological research, teaching, health sciences, biotechnology, conservation biology and wildlife management, forestry and other applied fields

Top Employers Hiring PSU Biology Graduates

Our graduates work in schools, universities, museums, nonprofits and local and national organizations. PSU’s urban location provides a pipeline to top opportunities in the community, including jobs with: 

  • Bonneville Power Administration
  • City of Portland
  • Ecotrust
  • Intel
  • Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
  • Oregon Health & Science University
  • Providence Health System

Our students also pursue graduate degrees, most often in biology, healthcare or other pre-professional programs as they take the next steps to advance their career. PSU also connects students with career opportunities before and after graduation through the University Career Center.

Start Your Journey as a Biology Major at Portland State University

  • Gain real-world research experience.
  • Study in state-of-the-art labs and field sites.
  • Prepare for graduate school or top science careers.