Biology students work in the creek on their first day of class

Biology

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Explore the biology bachelor's degree program at UW-Eau Claire

Study the science of life with a biology bachelor's degree from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. As one of the largest majors on campus, you'll find yourself surrounded by energized, passionate people just like you: curious about the earth and all that live on it. 

While at UW-Eau Claire, you'll learn from expert professors, who have real-world experience and are dedicated to their craft. Through research opportunities, study abroad and internships, you'll find that your perspective, skillset and resume grow quickly. Explore the unknown, challenge thoughts and ideas, and experience learning through unique projects you won't find on other campuses.

The program is intentionally designed with opportunities to integrate, interpret and translate biological phenomena and environmental observations into meaningful decisions. Combined with a rich, broad-based education in liberal arts, a degree in biology gives you the freedom to choose your path. Combat energy problems, explore food science, work with fish and wildlife, restore habitats, preserve natural resources, or...whatever else inspires you. 

No matter your interests, UW-Eau Claire will provide you with the tools and resources needed to choose your direction and make an impact.

On to medical school

Having grown up with health issues and frequent hospital visits, biology major Parker Chrisler knew he wanted to help others someday in the medical field. And now he will be able to do just that.

Through UWEC's collaboration with Mayo Clinic Health System, Parker was able to get enough experience and patient contact hours for admission into med school — all while receiving personalized support on campus to thrive.

Why biology at UW-Eau Claire?

Exceptional collections. Explore hundreds of thousands of specimens right on campus. UW-Eau Claire is home to extensive collections of amphibians, reptiles, fish, insects, invertebrates, mammals and birds as well as saltwater aquaria and a herbarium.

Engaged faculty who will know you by name. You won't find any TAs here. All biology courses at UW-Eau Claire are taught by expert faculty who take time to invest in their students. Your professors will know you by name and will do all they can to support you in earning your bachelor's degree. Utilize them to get the most out of your education, whether it's through research collaborations, career advice or a letter of recommendation.

Opportunities to take your studies to the field. At UW-Eau Claire, we believe that in order to get the most out of your education, you need to have real-life experiences outside of the classroom. Many biology majors take research trips or study abroad. Explore places like Costa Rica, the Charles Darwin Research Station in the Galapagos, rural Ecuador, Utah, Nebraska and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. 

Research collaboration and real-world experience. Limitless research opportunities await you at UW-Eau Claire. The biology department's student-faculty research program has given students the opportunity to work on projects across the state, country and world. Many biology degree students have then used their research to conduct independent studies, co-author publications and present results at professional scientific meetings.

3500

square feet of on-campus greenhouse space

230

acres of natural area right on campus

94% employed

or continuing education after graduation

2021-2022 Graduate Report

Quick facts

Biology program details
  • Program length: four years
  • Offered: in person
  • Campus: Eau Claire
  • This major requires a minor or certificate.
  • This program is also available as a minor. 
  • Students majoring in this program may choose either a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) degree.
Student organizations
  • Biology Club
  • Conservation Club
  • Molecular Movement 
  • Pre-Professional Health Club
  • Reef Team
  • Tri Beta Society

What can I do with a biology degree from UWEC?

UW-Eau Claire biology graduates are doing some pretty amazing things. By leveraging the knowledge, skills and experiences gained through their liberal arts education, they are able to find a career in biology that both interests and inspires them.

Where are biology alumni now?

Biology careers

Blugolds pose with their poster at a research presentation

UWEC biology has given me countless opportunities to learn and grow as a developing scientist. Our biology department has a strong focus on undergraduate research, which is an outstanding experience — I cannot thank our biology professors enough for the impact they’ve had on my life.

Dylan White Biology
Dr. Rachel Issaka in her Seattle hospital

Researching in collaboration with Mayo Clinic

Long before UW-Eau Claire had a formal research collaboration agreement with Mayo Clinic Health System, Blugolds found research opportunities with the renowned health system.

Dr. Rachel Issaka, a 2005 biology graduate from UWEC, was one of those fortunate students, having participated in the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) for biomedical research.

Learn more about Dr. Rachel Issaka's fellowship experience — and about where she is now.

Biology bachelor’s degree program curriculum

Biology majors will experience a rich, well-rounded liberal education, with classes and opportunities that go beyond what you might typically expect from a biology program. You'll learn about a wide variety of biology subjects that interest you and have opportunities to further explore those you want to learn more about. 

What classes do biology majors take?

Your classes may cover topics like: 

Learn more about the biology major in the UWEC course catalog.

Learn more about the biology minor in the UWEC course catalog.

Learn more about UWEC

We'll send you additional information about our campus and programs after you submit this form. You'll also have the chance to tell us more about yourself and your interests.

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Related programs at UW-Eau Claire

Thinking about a bachelor’s degree in biology? Here are other programs you may be interested in exploring.

Department information

Photo of student working in a biology lab

Biology

Phillips Science Hall 330
101 Roosevelt Avenue
 Eau Claire, WI 54701
Visit the Biology department website