This program is designed for students seeking a broad foundation in biological science that integrates faith and the sciences. As you pursue a B.S. in Biology from Multnomah University – whether you’re an aspiring researcher, teacher, or medical professional – you will learn the in-depth knowledge you need to excel in the workforce or prepare for entry into professional schools in dentistry, medicine, optometry, pharmacy, chiropractic, or veterinary medicine.

Ways to study

Undergraduate (Major) | On-campus

Program concentrations

Pre-med | Pre-dental | Pre-chiropractic | Pre-veterinary | Pre-pharmacy

Course plan

4-year

Application deadlines

Molecules and Cells to Organisms and Ecosystems

You will develop both Christian and biological perspectives. We intentionally incorporate the study of God into the program in practical ways for your faith to become an integral part of your future career. You will understand life from molecules to ecosystems, and your relationship with God from stewardship in creation to faith in the workplace. Unleash your curiosity and passion for research while embracing your walk with God for a lifetime of ceaseless discoveries.

Students Looking into Microscope

Example Courses

The courses listed below are some of our featured core classes that will be a part of your educational journey here at MU. Take a look at each course for a small preview.

This course is the first in a two-semester sequence. The course will cover the anatomical (structural) and physiological (functional) aspects of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems with an emphasis on their roles in maintaining homeostasis. Principles of histology and tissue organization will be discussed as well. Anatomical and physiological terminology will be stressed. Laboratory sessions will include microscopic examination of tissues, dissection of preserved mammalian species, and performance of physiological experiments.

A general genetics course covering Mendelian genetics, population genetics, and an introduction to molecular biology. This course fulfills the requirement for biology majors and is appropriate for those with an interest in current topics in genetics, including inheritable diseases, cloning, and other recent scientific breakthroughs. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. The additional course fee is required.

Introduction to the basic and applied aspects of microbiology, with special emphasis on the role of microorganisms in human affairs. Topics will include microbial growth and death, human disease, environmental microbiology, food and industrial microbiology, microbial aspects of water and sewage treatment, aspects of microbial gene flow, genetic engineering, and vaccine development. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week.

Covers the structure, function, and metabolism of the major biomolecules. This course focuses on the structure and general function of the four biomolecules; amino acids, nucleotides, carbohydrates, and lipids. A brief review of acid-base chemistry is followed by studying amino acids and general issues of protein structure. To understand how structure dictates function, students learn the general physiology of model proteins, and there is an investigation of the action of enzymes. Nucleic acids are studied in the context of their role in replication, transcription, and translation. The structure and function of major carbohydrates and lipids are also described. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week. Lab fee required.

Degree Requirements

Here you will find everything you need to know about what is required to successfully complete your degree. Whether you are beginning college for the first time or are a transfer student, we’ve got you covered.

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Meet Your Professors

Faculty Headshot Sarah Gall
Sarah Gall, Ph.D.
Associate Professor and Chair, Biology

God of Everything

Caring for God’s Complex Creation

Explore the role imagination plays in the sciences and how we can study biology and learn about God in the process at Multnomah University.

 

Program Concentrations

Students who desire to pursue medical school after MU, typically major in Biology and follow our Pre-med program course plans. We will equip you to gain entry into graduate school and lay a foundation of faith for a rewarding career in medicine.

We offer all the pre-requisite science and mathematics courses frequently required by dental schools in the region. Admission to dental school is highly competitive, but through our Pre-dental program, you will be equipped to pursue graduate school in dentistry while exploring your relationship with God.

Through our Pre-chiropractic program, you can eliminate an entire year of academic work and tuition compared to the traditional Doctor of Chiropractic route. At MU, you can expedite your journey without sacrificing educational quality while deepening your faith.

If you are passionate about helping animals, our Pre-veterinary program will prepare you for admission to graduate school and empower you to approach your career with a biblical vision of compassion and perseverance.

Our Pre-pharmacy program will provide you with the coursework and background required to qualify for graduate pharmacy school and cultivate your relationship with God for a purposeful career.

Career Placement

With your B.S. in Biology, you will be prepared to enter graduate or health professional schools or general employment in a variety of occupations. You will be prepared for roles, such as:

• Biologist • Nurse • Dentist
• Chiropractic Physician • Wildlife Supervisor • Science Teacher
• Medical Tech • Veterinarian • Physician

“I have been prepared for my future in the medical field and able to see the beautiful way that science and faith can work together. I chose to attend Multnomah because I wanted to earn a biology degree where I could learn the facts of science while also deepening my faith. Multnomah's biology program will prepare you, both academically and spiritually, to enter into the world and make a change.”

Janell Rief '20, Biology