Welcome to Biology


At CWU, you will gain an appreciation for scientific inquiry, developing skills in a wide variety of biological disciplines.

The Department of Biological Sciences offers a wide variety of biological disciplines that could lead to a career as a doctor, veterinarian, dentist, fish and wildlife manager, forest and range habitat manager, biomedical lab technician, or a biology teacher in high school (when paired with a teaching degree). We support your goals by offering small class sizes, hands-on laboratory and field work, daily interaction with expert faculty, and opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate research. You will have the chance to engage in research in molecular biology, ecology, microbiology, organismal biology, and evolutionary biology. Our biologists and alumni contribute in many ways to scientific knowledge and how we impact our world, and we want you to be part of it.

Questions? Contact Us.


Department of Biological Sciences

Science Building, Room 338

Department Chair
Dr. Clay Arango
(509) 963-3163
arangoc@cwu.edu

About Biology at CWU


With a degree in Biological Sciences from Central Washington University, you’ll develop a strong understanding of biological concepts relevant to you and your future, both as a biologist and as a citizen. Evolution is the unifying theme of our curriculum.

Mission and Vision

Learn about who we are as a department through our mission and vision statement.

Read more about "Mission and Vision"

Faculty and Staff Directory

Biography and contact info for faculty and staff members of the CWU Department of Biological Sciences

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Undergraduate Degrees

List of degrees offered through the Department of Biological Sciences

Read more about "Undergraduate Degrees"

Biology Graduate Program

Biology Graduate Program information and directions on how to apply.

Read more about "Biology Graduate Program"

Student Resources

Advising, research, club and internship info for students within the Department of Biological Sciences.

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Scholarships and Funding

Scholarship and funding opportunities geared toward biology students.

Read more about "Scholarships and Funding"

Department News and Events

Check here often for news about our faculty, students and alumni, as well as upcoming department events!

Read more about "Department News and Events"

Biology Facilities

Facilities used by the Department of Biological Sciences.

Read more about "Biology Facilities"

Explore our Degrees


Discover a range of programs designed to inspire creativity, build expertise, and prepare you for a successful career in Biology.

Find Opportunities in Biology

Open doors to incredible opportunities, from generous scholarships to diverse career paths in the Biology Department at CWU. Whether you’re looking to fund your education through scholarships or aiming to make an impact in your field, our program equips you with the tools and experiences needed for success.

Scholarships 


At CWU, we’re committed to your success with biology scholarships ranging from $500 to full tuition plus textbooks. You can also access funding for research projects, giving you hands-on experience and opportunities to make real contributions to the field. These opportunities help you focus on your education and turn your passion for biology into a rewarding future.

Grads at Work


Our biology graduates excel in a variety of career fields. Find your path to success with a degree in biology.

  • Physician – go on to medical school to become a physician’s assistant or medical doctor
  • Dentist – go on to dental school to become a practicing dentist
  • Veterinarian – go on to veterinary school to become a practicing veterinarian
  • Pharmacist – enter pharmacy school to become a pharmacist
  • Other Health Related fields — go on to Ophthalmology, Chiropractic, Physical Therapy, or professional schools
  • Laboratory Technician – work in medical, research, or food quality labs
  • Biologist – work as a fish or wildlife biologist at a state, federal, or tribal agency
  • Restoration Ecologist – work to restore fish and wildlife populations or wildlife habitat
  • High School Biology Teacher — pair a biology degree with a teaching degree