Biology—Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology (EEO) Emphasis

The Biology—Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology (EEO) Emphasis degree program focuses on the structure, function, ecology, and evolution of organisms, with an emphasis on plants and animals. A diploma granted under this major will indicate “Bachelor of Science”; official transcripts will indicate Biology — Ecology, Evolution and Organismal Biology Emphasis.

Western’s Biology programs are based on an integrated conceptual foundation in biology, critical thinking skills, quantitative problem-solving abilities, leadership with team-building skills, and scientific research skills students obtain from lecture and laboratory courses. The foundational principles in the Biology (BS) curriculum are ultimately critical for post-baccalaureate studies and future job performance.  

Because of the wide array of elective options for this major, the Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology emphasis is a terrific degree for students interested in careers in field research, in veterinary medicine, or in pursuing graduate education in ecology, evolutionary biology, or organismal biology.

Western’s Biology Department is part of the College of Science and Engineering.

 

Beyond the Classroom

The Biology program provides a wide variety of opportunities for applied practice of knowledge and skills gained in lectures and labs. Undergraduates are encouraged to engage in research alongside faculty, serve as teaching assistants for biology courses, join the Biology club, and/or develop their own extracurricular experience through the independent study option. Additionally, some upper level labs follow a project-based curriculum that resemble research experiences.   

The Biology Department works with Academic and Career Development Services (ACDS) to promote internships for external organizations to students and alumni. If students want to make these types of internships even more meaningful, they may elect to earn credit under BIOL 496. Students enrolled in BIOL 496 while completing their internship will be encouraged to reflect on their learning through journaling and other assignments under the direction of their faculty advisor, and the credit they earn upon completion may be applied to their program requirements.

Julie Maurer
Biology Student

 “It’s hard to say what I love most about the biology department. The classes are interesting, the professors are approachable, and it’s really easy to get involved with research.”

Careers and Graduate Studies

After completing the Bachelor of Science in Biology — EEO, recent Western graduates have worked at the Seattle Aquarium and Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, while others have continued their education at schools like Michigan State University and University of Southern Mississippi.

 

Requirements and Course Details

To learn more about this program, including grade requirements, a course listing, how to declare the major, and more, see the Program of Study Details.

 

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Sample Careers

  • Botanist 
  • Conservation Biologist 
  • Educator 
  • Ecologist 
  • Environmental Consultant 
  • Evolutionary Biologist
  • Field Biologist
  • Laboratory Technician

 

Department of Biology

Biology—Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology (EEO) Emphasis, BS

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