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

Department of History Coffee Hour
Jan20
Department of History Coffee Hour Jan 20 McKenzie Hall
Cinema Studies in Dublin Info Session
Jan20
Cinema Studies in Dublin Info Session Jan 20 McKenzie Hall
Dept. of History Seminar Series: "What is the History of Information? A Case Study of the United States in 1920"
Jan20
Dept. of History Seminar Series: "What is the History of Information? A Case Study of the United States in 1920" Jan 20 McKenzie Hall
Global Community Fellowship with VIA
Jan20
Global Community Fellowship with VIA Jan 20
Resume Extravaganza! (Drop-In Resume Reviews with Career Coaches & Peer Coaches)
Jan21
Resume Extravaganza! (Drop-In Resume Reviews with Career Coaches & Peer Coaches) Jan 21 Willie and Donald Tykeson Hall
Filmlandia Screening Series: "City Girl"
Jan21
Filmlandia Screening Series: "City Girl" Jan 21 Lawrence Hall
Oregon Quant Group Information Session
Jan21
Oregon Quant Group Information Session Jan 21 Lillis Business Complex
Real Estate Investment Group
Jan21
Real Estate Investment Group Jan 21 Lillis Business Complex
Decolonization and Global Justice Conference
Jan22
Decolonization and Global Justice Conference Jan 22 Erb Memorial Union (EMU)
Portland Internship Experience (PIE) 2026 Virtual Info-Session
Jan22
Portland Internship Experience (PIE) 2026 Virtual Info-Session Jan 22