Biology majors are eligible for numerous grants and scholarships ― including SPU scholarships, and federal and private financial aid.
Be sure to file a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as soon as possible after January 1. You can also contact Student Financial Services with questions about financial aid, billing, and payments.
Some students also receive scholarships from Biology, which specifically distributes scholarships for Biology majors. SPU is grateful to the many donors who support our students’ learning and aspirations, including:
Causey Scholarship
Awarded to a junior (with one year of school remaining) who is not on a Pre-Professional Health Sciences track, but who has taken the most extensive biology coursework and has the highest GPA in those courses.
Mr. C.O. Causey, a 1940 graduate of Seattle Pacific College, earned a bachelor of science degree in zoology. He established the Causey Scholarship with an initial gift of $2,145 prior to 1954 and made supplemental contributions prior to his death in 2008 at the age of 91. A lifelong Free Methodist, he remained passionate about Christian higher education and Seattle Pacific.
Cynthia Fitch-Steenson Memorial Scholarship
Preference will be given to, but not limited to, PPHS students who exemplify the mission of SPU and who exhibit a high potential for success in medical school. Recommended by the PPHS advisor group.
This scholarship was established in memory of Dr. Cindy Fitch-Steenson, a beloved biology faculty member from 1994 until 2012. Dr. Fitch-Steenson led the PPHS program for many years and was a dedicated and valued mentor to many students. Learn more about Dr. Fitch-Steenson here.
Matthew Kelley Scholarship
Awarded to a sophomore or higher with a minimum 3.75 GPA who intends to apply to medical school with the goal of serving on medical missions. Nominated by the PPHS coordinator.
This endowment was established by Edwin and Marie Kelley, parents of Matthew Kelley. Matthew, born on April 30, 1982, had a tragic drowning accident in 1984 when he was only 2 years old, and remained in a coma until his death on January 6, 1986.
A. Kenneth Moore Scholarship
Awarded to a highly qualified junior or senior Biology major who intends to apply to medical school. Recommended by the PPHS coordinator.
Established in 2007 by the family of SPU Professor Emeritus of Biology Ken Moore, this award recognizes students intending to pursue a medical degree.
Joy Rusher and Lois Samuelson Scholarship
Awarded to a junior or senior Biology major with the potential and desire to pursue medical school training in preparation for medical missions.
Joy Samuelson Rusher ’35 had two children — Dr. Jerry Rusher ’63 and Dr. Marie Rusher Kelley ’66, who became medical missionaries. Joy’s sister, Lois Samuelson ’32, provided financial support for Jerry and Marie to attend SPU. Marie and her husband, Edwin Kelley, established this scholarship in 2007 in remembrance of her mother and aunt.
Dr. Robert and Judy Weathers Biology Field Studies Endowment
Supports instructional activities, operational costs, and participation expenses for students in the Tropical Studies programs, as determined by the Biology Department chair.
Robert D. Weathers was a professor of Exercise Science at SPU for 32 years. Dr. Weathers helped establish the SPU’s biology study abroad trips to the Virgin Islands, Belize, Bahamas, Mexico, and the Galapagos Islands, assisting biology faculty with 17 trips during his SPU tenure. He and his wife, Judy, are strong believers in experiential education, biology field studies, and adventure wilderness-based courses. Their commitment continues to impact SPU students.