Bachelor of Arts in Biology
Explore creation and connect science to faith with a biology degree.
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Explore Life to Heal and Serve
Study living systems and their intersection with your humanity when you major in biology at Concordia University Irvine. As a biology major, you’ll gain a broad understanding of biological principles, their connection to the world around you, and your humanity.
The Bachelor of Arts in Biology provides a strong liberal arts foundation, needed to become wise, honorable and cultivated citizens. It’s an excellent choice if you’re preparing for a career in nursing, allied health sciences, or teaching. A Biology BA major pairs well with our Pre-Nursing Minor and fulfills the curricular requirements for the Freshman Advantage Nursing Pathway.
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
At Concordia, biology majors are trained to think critically and investigate life scientifically, all while considering the moral and theological dimensions of discovery. You’ll design and conduct your own research projects, present your findings, and strengthen your skills in communication, collaboration, and analysis.
Next Start
January 11, 2027
Curriculum
Core Curriculum (Sample Courses):
- BIO111 – General Biology I
- BIO112 – General Biology II
- BIO350 – Molecular and Cellular Biology
- BIO499 – Senior Thesis
- CHE222 – Chemistry II
- SCI455 – History and Philosophy of Science
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 B.A. in Biology opens the door to diverse career paths in nursing, allied healthcare and education. While some students move directly into the workforce, others continue their studies in graduate or professional programs.
Common fields for biology graduates include:
- Nursing
- Teaching and science education
- Laboratory research and biotechnology
- Healthcare administration
- Science communication and public health
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top occupations for biology degree holders include postsecondary teachers, medical scientists, nurses, and clinical laboratory technologists.1
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.
You can also combine your biology major with a related program such as:
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 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?
Explore Financial Aid
Reduce your tuition costs with financial aid — with help from a team that wants to make your time at Concordia as affordable as possible.
Meet Our Faculty
FAQs
What jobs can I do with biology?
A biology degree prepares you for a wide range of roles depending on your interests and further education. Most of our graduates with a B.A. in Biology pursue careers in nursing or allied health but pathways in education, research, and graduate school are all options.
What’s the difference between a B.A. and a B.S. biology degree?
Both degrees provide strong scientific training. The B.S. emphasizes laboratory and quantitative sciences for students aiming at graduate research or medical school. The B.A. provides more flexibility, allowing you to pair biology with interests in education, communication, or ministry, offering a well-rounded foundation for a variety of careers.
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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).
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.