Biology, BS—Biomedical Science Specialization


Gain a comprehensive understanding of the medical sciences with a Biology, BS—Biomedical Science Specialization from CWU.

You’ll master biology, chemistry, and physics, completing all the prerequisite coursework needed for admission to medical, dental, veterinary, physician assistant, and pharmacy programs. Through tailored classroom and laboratory experiences, you’ll develop critical thinking, research, and communication skills as you analyze complex scientific data and understand medical research. The flexible curriculum allows you to focus on your specific areas of interest, with opportunities for undergraduate research, mock interviews, and other pre-professional experiences. This specialization prepares you for diverse careers in medicine, making it the ideal choice for entering professional schools.

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Department of Biological Sciences

Science Building, Room 338

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

We're here for your future

What You'll Study

Academic Catalog | Biology Department Website

 

Biology Core 


  • BIOL 181 - General Biology I 
  • BIOL 182 - General Biology II 
  • BIOL 183 - General Biology III 
  • BIOL 213 - Introductory Biostatistics 
  • BIOL 321 - Genetics 
  • BIOL 487 - Biology Capstone 

General Chemistry and Laboratory


  • CHEM 181 - General Chemistry I 
  • CHEM 181LAB - General Chemistry Laboratory I
  • CHEM 182 - General Chemistry II 
  • CHEM 182LAB - General Chemistry Laboratory II 
  • CHEM 183 - General Chemistry III 
  • CHEM 183LAB - General Chemistry Laboratory III 

Select from the following sequences

  • PHYS 111 - Introductory Physics I with Laboratory 
  • PHYS 112 - Introductory Physics II with Laboratory
  • PHYS 113 - Introductory Physics III with Laboratory 

OR

  • PHYS 121 - Introductory Physics for Life Sciences I 
  • PHYS 122 - Introductory Physics for Life Sciences II 
  • PHYS 123 - Introductory Physics for Life Sciences III 

OR

  • PHYS 181 - General Physics I with Laboratory
  • PHYS 182 - General Physics II with Laboratory 
  • PHYS 183 - General Physics III with Laboratory

Additional Courses 


  • CHEM 361 - Organic Chemistry I 
  • CHEM 361LAB - Organic Chemistry Laboratory I
  • CHEM 362 - Organic Chemistry II 
  • 3 courses* from the Ecology, Evolution, Molecular/Cell and/or Structure/Function Groups 

Department-Approved Electives

Hands-On Learning

Expand your community by participating in clubs and activities. Meet your fellow Wildcats and gain knowledge outside of the classroom by joining a Biology Club, including Pre-Medicine Club and Pre-Veterinary Club.

Job Opportunities in Biology

The Biology Department is committed to your success in and out of the classroom. Find helpful resources and opportunities through the Biology Job and Internship Board available to you throughout your time at CWU and into your professional career.

A Wealth of Scholarships in Biology

At Central Washington University, we believe that everyone deserves access to quality education, regardless of their financial background. Go to the Biology Department website for department-specific scholarships!

BIOL 321 - Genetics

Explore heredity by blending lectures with lab work, diving into DNA, genes, and chromosomes. You'll analyze genetic data, consider the ethical impacts of genetics, and apply your knowledge to real-world challenges in biology.

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Discover how to apply to your program of choice at Central.

Financial Aid

Our Financial Aid staff are here to help you navigate financial aid.

Student Life

Pursue your interests in a supportive community. Learn more.

Visit

The best way to discover what makes CWU so special is to experience it yourself. 

More students working with a professor in a lab.
Discover

Specialized Courses

like endocrinology, virology, immunology, and neuroscience provide you with unique learning opportunities.

Small

Class sizes

ensure daily interaction with faculty, leading to personalized letters of recommendation and a tailored educational experience.

Undergrad

Research opportunities

allow you to present at professional meetings and even co-author published work.

Commitment to a Sustainable World


Central Washington University is committed to integrating sustainability across academics, operations, and campus life. The Biology Department embeds sustainability-related concepts, skills, and applied learning that prepare students to think critically about their impact on the world around them.

Learn more about CWU’s sustainability efforts through the Office of Sustainability, explore CWU’s national sustainability recognition, or view the full AASHE STARS report.

Health Careers


We offer a range of pre-health coursework and advising to help you prepare for a variety of health careers. With support from faculty and staff, you'll get help with prerequisites needed for advanced or professional health programs such as Chiropractic Medicine, Nursing, Physical Therapy, Medicine, and more.

While CWU does not offer specific pre-health majors, we provide many of the necessary courses that align with these program requirements. You can complete these prerequisites while earning a bachelor’s degree in your field of interest, setting you on the path to success in healthcare. Learn more about Healthcare Careers.