Bachelor of Science in Biology
Answer your callings to science or healthcare with a biology degree.
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Find Solutions for Scientific and Health Issues
Modern biologists are at the forefront of solving the world’s most pressing challenges — from protecting ecosystems to advancing medical breakthroughs. The Bachelor of Science in Biology at Concordia University Irvine prepares you with the skills, knowledge, and faith-based perspective to excel in research, education, industry, forensics, and various areas within health and medical professions.
In this program, you’ll gain hands-on experience in experimental design, proposal writing, data collection and analysis, and laboratory research. You’ll explore how living systems reflect the complexity and order of God’s creation and how your vocation as a scientist can serve others.
Career Relevant
Gain real-world skills for a life of service and leadership.
Collaborative Classes
Learn in classes with a 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
Opportunity Awaits
Access internship and career opportunities across Southern CA.
Getting Started
The B.S. in Biology is a rigorous, research-driven program ideal for students pursuing graduate school or health professional programs such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, optometry, veterinary science, and other allied health fields.
The degree requires 70 units of science coursework, with advanced classes in biology and chemistry, alongside supporting courses in physics, anatomy and physiology, and bioethics. You’ll learn to think critically, design experiments, and integrate your scientific understanding with a Christ-centered worldview.
Next Start
January 11, 2027
Curriculum
Core Curriculum (Sample Courses):
- BIO111 – General Biology I
- BIO112 – General Biology II
- BIO350 – Molecular and Cellular Biology
- BIO355 – Biostatistics
- BIO496 – Research in Biology
- BIO499 – Senior Thesis
- CHE222 – Chemistry II
- CHE321 – Organic Chemistry I
- CHE322 – Organic Chemistry II
- MTH272 – Calculus II
- SCI455 – History and Philosophy of Science
- SCI495 – Research Methods
View the Concordia University Irvine Online Catalog for a full list of courses.
With a biology degree from Concordia, you’ll be able to:
- Demonstrate written and oral communication skills.
- Apply core concepts in genetics, cell, molecular, and organismal biology.
- Analyze data using appropriate mathematical and statistical methods.
- Read, analyze, and critique primary scientific literature.
- Perform basic laboratory techniques with accuracy and safety.
- Articulate a Christian worldview from a Lutheran perspective on scientific topics.
Tuition and Fees
At Concordia, we understand that investing in your education is a significant decision. That’s why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make your academic journey more affordable. In fact, 100% of our students receive some form of financial assistance! View tuition costs and fees for undergraduate programs.
Admission Requirements
View the Application page for full details on application and admission requirements.
Nationally Recognized Q&I Curriculum
Concordia University Irvine is among a distinctive group of universities that offer a comprehensive liberal arts curriculum for all of its students. Our nationally recognized Enduring Questions & Ideas curriculum (Q&I, for short) is carefully crafted so that you discover the purpose of a liberal arts education — to grow intellectually, ethically, and spiritually.
Internships
Concordia biology majors regularly apply classroom learning in hands-on settings through internships and research placements at renowned local institutions. They can also participate in research opportunities at Concordia, including paid summer internship positions, or at other institutions through Research Experience for Undergraduate (REU) fellowship programs.
These experiences build your resume, expand your professional connections, and help clarify your calling, whether in healthcare, research, or education.
Career Outcomes
A biology degree opens the door to a broad range of scientific and healthcare careers. Many graduates pursue graduate or professional study, while others enter the workforce in research, industry, or education.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top roles for biology degree holders1 include:
- Medical and clinical laboratory sciences
- Biotechnology or pharmaceutical research
- Dentistry, medicine, and optometry
- Nursing and allied health professions
- Environmental and field biology
- Science education and academic research
Academic Opportunities
Beyond your coursework, you’ll have opportunities to collaborate with faculty on independent or faculty-led research, participate in educational outreach, and join professional fraternities and honor societies.
Biology students can round out their education by pairing their studies with other majors and minors, including:
Extracurricular Activities
Concordia offers many opportunities for you to become involved with on-campus events, clubs, and organizations. Biology majors can connect with peers and apply their faith through service in:
- MedHeads medical club
- Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society (TriBeta)
- Heritage Garden Club
- President’s Academic Showcase
- Marine Lab Educational Outreach Program
Life at Concordia
Join a community where you’re free to explore your interests and pursuits, make relationships that last a lifetime, and develop your own relationship with God. What will you explore?
Meet Our Faculty
FAQs
What can you do with a biology degree?
A biology degree can prepare you for dozens of fulfilling careers. Many students move into healthcare, research, environmental science, or education, while others use their biology background as a foundation for professional programs such as medicine, dentistry, or pharmacy.1
Does a B.S. in biology make you a biologist?
Yes. A biology degree from Concordia provides the training needed to begin your career as a biologist. Graduates often work in laboratories, conservation projects, or research organizations. As you gain experience, you can specialize further or pursue graduate study to advance in your field.
What is the best career option for biology students?
That depends on your goals, but a B.S. in Biology keeps many paths open. The biology degree from Concordia fulfills most prerequisites for medical school and other health-related programs. In fact, about 60% of medical school applicants major in the biological sciences2. Whether your calling is in healthcare, education, or research, you’ll be equipped to succeed.
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Sources
1U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/field-of-degree/biology/biology-field-of-degree.htm (viewed Oct. 22, 2025).
2American Medical Association, Which undergrad majors are best for med school?, on the internet, at:
- https://www.ama-assn.org/medical-students/preparing-medical-school/which-undergrad-majors-are-best-med-school (viewed Jan. 8, 2025).
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.