Introduction
Biology is the study of living organisms. As scientists, biologists have three goals: (1) understanding biological systems, (2) generating and disseminating reliable data pertaining to biological systems, and (3) developing a deep understanding of the natural world that can inform solutions for the serious challenges facing humanity. The Bachelor of Arts (BA) program in Biology will enable you to develop an integrated conceptual foundation in biology, as well as critical thinking skills, quantitative problem-solving abilities, leadership and team-building skills, and scientific research skills.
WWU Biology is distinguished by small class sizes and direct engagement with dedicated faculty who chose to come to our department because of its student-centered approach to education – we care about your success. Here, you will be part of a student-centered, inclusive, welcoming, and engaging learning community, with access to experiential and place-based learning. For example, through upper-level laboratory courses and research experiences, you can access state-of-the-art research instrumentation, and explore the diversity of nearby habitats, from the Salish Sea to the Cascade Mountains.
The Biology BA program features a core curriculum at the 200-level and 300-level, plus one 400-level course in evolution. Additional upper-division lab and lecture courses will help you to 1) gain additional depth of knowledge, 2) have opportunities to integrate and apply that knowledge in various settings including the lab, the field, and discussions with others, and 3) develop skills and abilities that are tailored to particular interests and career paths.
Why Consider a Biology BA?
- Are you fascinated by the natural world, and how life impacts every area of human endeavor?
- Are you considering a career in applied biology?
- Do you have interests in other disciplines you want to combine with the study of biology?
The Biology BA program gives you access to the same strong biology foundation as the Biology BS, followed by 13 elective credits. A diploma granted under this concentration will indicate “Bachelor of Arts: Biology;” official transcripts will indicate Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts and Major: Biology.
Student Resources
Department website: Biology
Contact information: Maren Brinson and Alexis Donnelly, Biology 315, 360-650-6165, biologyadvising@wwu.edu
Academic advising: Admitted and/or current students must meet with an academic advisor.
Degree Works: Current students should also log on to Degree Works to check student-specific program progress.
Career Services Center: Connect major to a career
Sample Careers
Educator, Scientific Illustrator, Science Writer, Public Outreach, Nursing, Physician Assistant, Dental Assistant, Pathology Assistant, Biological Photographer, Laboratory Technician, Field Biologist
How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):
Admission to the Biology Major is based upon an application procedure that considers prior academic performance (specifically GPA in prerequisite courses) and student responses to focused prompts.
Pre-major Declaration
Students who have begun the introductory biology (BIOL 204, BIOL 205, BIOL 206) series and/or the introductory chemistry series (CHEM 161/175, CHEM 162/176, and CHEM 163/225), but have not yet completed CHEM 163/225 and BIOL 206 are granted pre-major status. Students who have been formally admitted into Western may declare a biology pre-major by filling out the Student Academic Declaration and Change Form. Pre-majors are assigned biology faculty advisors and receive helpful announcements regarding registration and other information of use to pre-majors.
Application to the Major
Students are eligible to apply to the Biology Major when they have completed BIOL 204, BIOL 205, CHEM 161/175, and CHEM 162/176 with grades of C- or higher. Application involves submitting a completed application form, including responding to prompts about the applicant’s experience, motivation, and goals. See the Biology Department’s website for more details, including information about application prompts, application deadlines, review timeline, and reapplication limits. The Biology Department’s website also has information specific to transfer students interested in applying for admission to the Biology Major, such as application eligibility and transfer course equivalencies.
Students are strongly encouraged to apply to the major at the beginning of the quarter in which they are enrolled in BIOL 206 and/or CHEM 163/225 to ensure timely progress towards graduation. Admission to the major following a successful application is contingent on completing both BIOL 206 and CHEM 163/225 with a grade of C- or higher.
Grade Requirements
A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major courses, and for supporting courses for majors.
