Biology - CSTEM - EWU - The Region's Polytechnic

Plant the Seeds for Your Future

Biology is the study of life in all its incredible forms. At EWU, you’ll deep dive into the structure and function of organisms, examining everything from molecules and cells to entire ecosystems.

Our comprehensive undergraduate biology program gives you a strong foundation in biological sciences, along with numerous opportunities for hands-on learning. You’ll work with state-of-the-art equipment in modern facilities, preparing you to use the same tools in your future career.

Fieldwork is also a core component of the program, so you’ll have plenty of chances to explore your interests and apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings.

Here, you won’t be just another face in the crowd. Thanks to small class sizes, EWU biology faculty can offer one-on-one attention and mentorship, allowing you to benefit from their research experience and expertise.

Whether you’re interested in health sciences, biotechnology, or environmental sciences, the EWU Biology program equips you with the knowledge and skills to pursue roles in diverse fields.

Why Study Biology at EWU?

We are committed to excellence and student success.

Exciting Research Opportunities

Collaborate with our exceptional faculty on innovative research that creates a meaningful impact in the real world.

Hands-On Experience

Develop investigative and critical-thinking skills through immersive work in the lab and out in the field.

Excellent Job Opportunities

Thanks to the knowledge they gain at EWU, our students have an impressive track record of securing jobs shortly after graduation.

EWU Biology

Study biology at EWU and unlock a world of opportunities! Collaborate with our expert faculty on important research, gain hands-on experience in state-of-the-art labs, and step into a career with confidence thanks to our strong job placement rates after graduation.

Student Stories

Facilities

In addition to the facilities listed below, we have an ongoing Prairie Restoration Project, a state-of-the-art vivarium, a cadaver lab, and functioning campus beehives.

Turnbull Lab

The Turnbull Laboratory for Ecological Studies (TLES) is an ecological field station and research/educational center that offers students a unique opportunity to explore and study the diverse ecosystems of the Inland Northwest. Located on the 15,500-acre Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge, TLES makes EWU just one of three universities with a research facility on a national wildlife refuge. TLES was established in 1976 through a partnership between EWU and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to deepen our understanding of biological processes and their impact on the region’s populations, ecological communities, and ecosystems.

Biotechnology Lab

In our modern biotech lab, students delve into the fundamentals of molecular biotechnology while mastering various techniques such as pipetting, solution preparation, DNA and protein electrophoresis, restriction analysis, cloning, transformations, and western blotting. But it’s not just about learning the methods—it’s also about applying them to real-world projects, like the production and evaluation of potentially therapeutic proteins. This hands-on experience sharpens skills and makes graduates highly sought after in the biotech industry. In fact, many receive attractive job offers upon graduation.

Greenhouses

The Department of Biology is home to two state-of-the-art greenhouses that promote learning and research. The Teaching Greenhouse features two glass rooms and a spacious head house, providing an interactive space for classes and a vibrant collection of demonstration plants. Meanwhile, the Research Greenhouse is a large, climate-controlled facility designed for faculty and student research. These greenhouses provide the perfect setting for students to engage with plant science and gain practical experience.

Aquarium Rooms

The Department of Biology also features two modern aquarium rooms that offer exciting opportunities for both faculty and student research. One room contains six living stream ecosystems and several marine tanks, creating a dynamic environment for aquatic studies. The other room is equipped with eight 300-gallon, flow-through tanks with precise temperature control and photo-period regulation, providing a cutting-edge space for in-depth research on aquatic life.