Eastern Washington University

What you'll study

The Biology programme at Eastern Washington University provides a mixture of core biological sciences, laboratory practice and fieldwork. You will complete foundational courses such as Cell Biology, Genetics, Ecology, Evolution and Physiology, and progress to more specialised modules including Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Organismal Diversity and Bioinformatics.

• Core laboratory courses: hands‑on lab classes that teach microscopy, molecular techniques (DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis), microbial culture and experimental design.
• Field courses and ecology: field methods, ecosystem and population ecology with local field trips that take advantage of regional habitats near Cheney and the Spokane area.
• Quantitative and analytical skills: statistics for biologists, data analysis, and courses that address experimental design and scientific communication.
• Capstone and research: senior seminar or capstone project and opportunities for undergraduate research in faculty labs across subfields of biology.
• Electives and tracks: electives allow you to tailor studies toward molecular/cellular biology, organismal biology, ecology/conservation, or pre‑professional preparation (pre‑medicine, pre‑veterinary, pre‑dental).
• Practical experience: internships, practicum placements and collaborative projects with local hospitals, environmental organisations and industry partners in the Spokane region.

Entry requirements

Admission to Eastern Washington University requires a completed secondary school qualification or equivalent. Prospective biology majors are expected to have completed secondary coursework in biology and chemistry, and strong preparation in mathematics (algebra and preferably precalculus). Typical preparation also includes coursework in physics and additional laboratory experience where available.

• Domestic applicants: a high school diploma with an academic record showing strength in science and maths. The Biology major may have recommended preparatory courses and could expect competitive applicants to present a solid overall GPA.
• Transfer applicants: submission of official college transcripts; completion of key introductory science and maths courses can support a smoother transition into upper‑division biology courses.
• International applicants: equivalent secondary qualifications and proof of English proficiency (for example recognised tests or institutional evidence) are required.
• All applicants should consult the university's admissions pages for specific documentation required and any programme‑specific guidance on prerequisite courses.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Biology degree from Eastern Washington University move into a wide range of careers in science, education and health. The programme is intended to prepare students both for direct entry into the workforce and for further professional or graduate study.

• Laboratory and research roles: laboratory technician, research assistant, quality control technician in biotech or pharmaceutical settings.
• Environmental and field roles: conservation biologist, wildlife technician, environmental consultant, natural resource specialist with public agencies and nonprofits.
• Healthcare and professional pathways: preparation routes for medical, dental, veterinary and allied health programmes; many students apply to graduate and professional schools after completing prerequisite courses.
• Education and outreach: secondary school science teacher (with additional teacher certification), museum or park educator, science communication and public outreach positions.
• Further study and specialisation: many graduates progress to master's and doctoral programmes in ecology, molecular biology, microbiology, public health or related fields.

Why study at Eastern Washington University

Eastern Washington University offers a biology degree with small class sizes and accessible faculty, which supports close mentorship and opportunities for undergraduate research. The campus location near Spokane provides convenient access to diverse inland ecosystems—rivers, forests and agricultural landscapes—that are valuable for field ecology and conservation coursework.

• Hands‑on learning: emphasis on laboratory skills, field methods and applied projects that prepare students for technical roles or further study.
• Research opportunities: undergraduates can work alongside faculty on funded research and present findings at campus symposia.
• Professional connections: partnerships with local healthcare providers, government agencies and environmental organisations create pathways for internships and employment.
• Support services: advising for pre‑professional students (medicine, veterinary, dental), career services and tutoring to help with academic and career planning.

Overall, EWU’s Biology programme is suitable for students seeking a practical, flexible undergraduate science education with regional fieldwork opportunities and clear routes into both the workforce and further study.