Undergraduate Programs

Why Study Biology? 

Thank you sincerely for your interest in studying Biology at the University of Oregon. Our optional emphasis areas give undergraduates opportunities to learn and work with scientists who are making important contributions to knowledge in these specializations. We offer students many ways to enrich their education both on and off campus. Our nationally and internationally recognized graduates have completed top MD, PhD, MD-PhD, and MS programs and internships all over the world. 

student looking into microscope

Major in Biology

We have developed an outstanding undergraduate program that will prepare you for a multitude of options including graduate schools and careers in biomedicine and research, allied health, private industry and education. Choosing one of our focus areas can help guide you through upper-division course work based on your specific interest.

Our Majors:

Majors:
Biology
Marine Biology
 
Minors:
Biology
 
Concentrations:
Human Biology
Molecular Cellular & Developmental Biology
Neuroscience & Behavior
Marine Biology
Ecology & Evolution
 

Honors in Biology and Undergraduate Research

An Honors degree in Biology or Marine Biology requires intensive laboratory and/or field work supervised by a faculty member. If you are interested in undertaking an Honors project, you should contact a participating faculty member either at the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology or on the Eugene campus to explore opportunities. Find more details on requirements by visiting the Honors page.


people taking a sample in an estuary

Real-World Experience

Our students gain valuable training in laboratory skills that translate into health profession and industry careers, as well as prepare students for graduate studies. From internships and lab work to conference presentations and study abroad experiences, explore the ways to learn biology in a practical setting. 


student in lab using pipette

What you can do with a Biology degree

A biology major can prepare you to work in many fields. Learn about possible careers and hear from alumni.


Advising and Academic Support

Schedule an appointment with a faculty or peer advisor, find important department forms and get answers.

Departmental Advising and Support

Scholarships and Awards

Learn about ways to apply for funding through the Department of Biology.

Explore Scholarships and Awards


Events

What is Research? (2026)
Apr24
What is Research? (2026) Apr 24 UO Portland
College of Arts and Sciences Liberal Arts Summit
Apr24
College of Arts and Sciences Liberal Arts Summit Apr 24 Erb Memorial Union (EMU)
"Beyond Extraction" Symposium and Film Screenings (Day 2)
Apr24
"Beyond Extraction" Symposium and Film Screenings (Day 2) Apr 24 Knight Library
ArcGIS Pro and the Makerspace: Laser-Cut Map Notebook
Apr24
ArcGIS Pro and the Makerspace: Laser-Cut Map Notebook Apr 24 Knight Library
"Radium Girls"
Apr24
"Radium Girls" Apr 24 Miller Theatre Complex
What is Research? (2026)
Apr25
What is Research? (2026) Apr 25 UO Portland
"Radium Girls"
Apr25
"Radium Girls" Apr 25 Miller Theatre Complex
"Radium Girls"
Apr26
"Radium Girls" Apr 26 Miller Theatre Complex
Jeremiah Public Symposium: Foodways in Early East Asia
Apr28
Jeremiah Public Symposium: Foodways in Early East Asia Apr 28 Museum of Natural and Cultural History
Dept. of History Seminar Series: “If the child dies, it will cost my life too, that cannot be avoided.” Suicide by Proxy, Social Discipline and the Psyche in Early Modern Germany
Apr28
Dept. of History Seminar Series: “If the child dies, it will cost my life too, that cannot be avoided.” Suicide by Proxy, Social Discipline and the Psyche in Early Modern Germany Apr 28 McKenzie Hall