Biology Department

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Biology — the science of life — is dynamic and diverse. Each living thing is an amazingly complex system. From our bodies to the viruses that infect us, from vast oceans to minute bacteria, each interacts with other living things in complex ways. 

Biology majors at Seattle Pacific University graduate with a broad understanding of living organisms. Through immersion in scientific inquiry and problem solving, you’ll develop fundamental skills and knowledge for entering a wide range of careers, including those in medicine, environmental science, research, and teaching.

We offer five undergraduate biology majors. Each one benefits students with a robust program emphasizing hands-on research.

We offer three biology minors to complement your major and enriching your scientific frame of reference.

Our urban location near Seattle’s biotechnology hub offers you opportunities for mentors and internships. You can also perform research through our Summer Research Program and present your research findings at local conferences.

Biology News

The Galapagos Global Seminar is now accepting applications

In June 2025, Professors of Biology, Dr. Eric Long and Dr. Ryan Ferrer, will lead students on a trip to the Galapagos Island, which has played a pivotal role in our understanding of evolutionary biology. Students can earn credit for either BIO 3303 (Evolutionary Ecology in the Galapagos Islands, 5 Credits) or BIO 3304 (Oceanography of the Galapagos Archipelago, 5 Credits). For more information and to apply, please see the Study Abroad program website. The application deadline is January 13, 2025.

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The Seattle Pacific University campus in a 360 circular globe

Visit Eaton Hall

Visit the Eaton Hall lobby without leaving home through SPU’s new 360 Virtual Tour. You can also tour Eaton Hall’s lecture hall.

Biology

Welcome to Biology!

Dr. Tracie Delgado, professor of biology, brings us a few words of welcome and introduction as part of Orientation 2020.

Med School Acceptance Rates

Over the last five years, SPU premed students have achieved an average acceptance rate into medical school of 80 percent — far exceeding the 39 percent national average.