Bachelor of Science in Human Biology

Admissions & Aid College of Arts and Sciences
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Bachelor of Science in Human Biology

What Will I Learn in the Human Biology Major?

University of Portland’s bachelor of science (BS) in human biology degree program provides an immersive, interdisciplinary study of the human body and its systems. You’ll explore anatomy, physiology, cell biology, and related sciences while engaging in hands-on experiences that sharpen your problem-solving skills. Prepare to study the intricacies of human genetics, investigate the impact of diseases, and apply biology to solve global health challenges.

Human Biology Courses

As a human biology major, you’ll experience a curriculum that prepares you for diverse career paths, from health care and research to forensic science and beyond. Courses in molecular biology, physiology, and human anatomy provide a foundation of knowledge, while electives like parasitology, cancer biology, and neurobiology allow you to tailor your studies to your interests.

Practice hands-on skills in state-of-the-art labs that set you apart in the workforce. If you are interested in pursuing a healthcare career, the pre-health program ensures you meet the requirements for medical, dental, or other professional schools, seamlessly integrating preparation into your degree plan.

Degree Requirements

University Core

Every student at UP completes a 40-credit-hour Core Curriculum that integrates a variety of academic disciplines with values-related courses. Based on the Holy Cross tradition, the Core sharpens your ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and make decisions that reflect ethical integrity—preparing you to thrive personally and in your biology profession.

The Core

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More Than a Degree

Enhance your education, develop leadership skills, and get involved—complement your human biology degree with unique UP experiences.

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Undergraduate Research

Work with faculty on cutting-edge research supported by funding from the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation. Showcase your findings at national conferences and build a strong foundation for graduate or professional school.

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Teaching Opportunities

Take your learning to the next level. Sophomores, juniors, and seniors can support professors in labs and classrooms, guide peers through complex material, and strengthen their communication abilities.

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Holy Cross Tradition

UP’s commitment to whole-person education inspires you to grow in knowledge, empathy, and purpose as you serve those around you.

The UP Difference

We’re proud to provide a supportive environment where students excel. Take a look at what UP can offer you.

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%+

of UP Graduates with a 3.8+ Science GPA Matriculated into Medical School

+

Biology Classes Offered Each Semester

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%

Of Biology Students have Completed a Research or Clinical Internship for Credit in the Last Five Years

Biology Student Spotlight

“My time at UP really prepared me for the transition to medical school. The fantastic science professors and courses cemented my interest in a career in the STEM fields, and my time working in the UP genetics lab piqued my interest in research. I have now taken this strong foundation and applied it to my research as an ophthalmology resident. I have always wanted to use my expertise to help people, and medicine offers me the opportunity to do just that. I hope to impact patients’ lives not only directly through patient care, but also through clinical research.”

Kai Seely ‘17, MD, MHSc, Resident at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute

Careers and Outcomes

Whether you’re passionate about direct patient care, advancing medical knowledge through research, or shaping public health policy, you’ll receive personalized advising to help align your academic journey with your career goals.

Potential Career Areas

Human biology majors hold careers in a variety of health care settings, including:

  • Biomechanics
  • Dentistry
  • Exercise science
  • Health care management
  • Medicine
  • Physical and occupational therapy

Graduate Studies

With a BS in human biology, you lay the foundation for success in a variety of graduate and professional programs. You can further your education across academic disciplines, including:

  • Biotechnology Chiropractic medicine
  • Exercise science
  • Forensic Science, Pharmacology
  • Osteopathic medicine
  • Physician assistant studies
  • Physiology
  • Public health
  • Speech pathology

Alumni Employers

UP human biology graduates bring strong scientific knowledge, hands-on lab experience, and a deep understanding of the human body to their careers. They excel in clinical, research, and healthcare roles at leading institutions, including:

  • Bridgeport Family Medicine
  • Harbor-UCLA Medical Center
  • Kaiser Permanente
  • NY Presbyterian
  • OHSU
  • Poseida Therapeutics
  • Sutter Health
  • Volta Health

Related Degrees

A dynamic view from over the shoulder of a professor of a UP biomedical science student as they work behind a glass barrier in a laboratory, with scientific equipment visible in the background.

BS in Cell, Molecular, and Biomedical Science

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BA & BS in Biology

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BS in Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation Biology

Discover What You Can Achieve With a Human Biology Degree

Earn your bachelor of science in human biology at University of Portland and take the first step toward a rewarding career in healthcare and beyond.

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