Degrees
The Department of Biology oversees the second largest undergraduate program in the sciences at the University of Washington. The popularity of our program reflects the fact that Biology is a dynamic, interesting and important field of study. The students and faculty of the Department of Biology are interested in the study of life from molecular, cellular, organismal, community and global perspectives. Our faculty and staff are dedicated to offering a strong and exciting undergraduate curriculum and we take great pride in the accomplishments of our students. This web page will introduce you to the degree programs and the wide range of opportunities available to students of Biology.
The Department of Biology is a new department, with a birth date of February 1, 2003. It was formed from the merger of the Department of Botany, the Department of Zoology and the Biology Undergraduate Program.
The Department of Biology offers two degree programs, one leading to a B.A. and one leading to a B.S. The hallmarks of these programs are broad training in biology at the introductory and intermediate levels and opportunities to concentrate in certain sub-disciplines at the advanced levels. Click here for an overview of the degree programs to help you decide whether the Biology B.A. or B.S. program will best suit your needs and to explore the options available for specialization. Specific requirements for each major can be viewed by clicking on the hyperlinks below.
New Degree Requirements beginning Fall 2006
See one of the Biology Advisers to help you decide which degree and option will work best for you. We also recommend that you see an adviser every other quarter. This is the best way for you to keep on track and to learn of new course or lab opportunities.
Interested in finding out what courses will be offered when? Here is the Biology course matrix for the Biology B.A. and B.S. degrees for the 2008-2009 school year.
We encourage all Biology majors to take full advantage of the opportunities available as members of a department that is known for excellence in teaching and research. The Biology advisers can answer questions about courses, study skills or career workshops, internships, research and other opportunities. Many of these topics can also be explored on this website. Click on the advising link to see how to contact Biology Advising.