Biology
Bachelor of Science
Discover how life works
Through our program, you’ll dive into essential life science topics as they relate to humans, animals, plants and microbes. You’ll explore areas such as evolutionary biology, genetics, ecosystems, human anatomy and physiology. Your critical thinking and research skills will grow through practical, hands-on experiences in both laboratory settings and outdoor environments.
Our degree offers a strong foundation for pursuing professional programs in healthcare fields like medicine, dentistry, physical therapy or nursing, as well as graduate studies in biology and related sciences. The majority of students accepted into medical and allied health schools have backgrounds in core scientific disciplines like biology.
View the sample four-year plan for this degree.
Overview
Learning the science of life
Degree fit
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Have a genuine curiosity about life on earth
- Enjoy science and research
- Have a strong work ethic
- Are a creative problem solver and critical thinker
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,434 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Natural Sciences Managers • Clinical Research Coordinators • Water Resource Specialists
$152,874 - Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists
$79,528 - Bioinformatics Scientists • Molecular and Cellular Biologists • Geneticists • Biologists
$90,412 - Medical Scientists
$98,169 - Agricultural Technicians • Precision Agriculture Technicians
$43,984
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Financial aid
Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but U of I’s Financial Aid Office is here to help. Our experienced financial aid counselors can assist you in exploring financial aid options, making informed financial decisions and addressing common concerns.
To maximize aid and scholarship possibilities, complete your FAFSA. For information on FAFSA deadlines and answers to common questions, visit the University of Idaho FAFSA website.
Plan ahead — estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.
Scholarships
Unlock scholarship opportunities at University of Idaho! When you apply to U of I, you're automatically considered for scholarships. We also offer a variety of scholarships based on experience, background and academic programs that students can apply for to help pay for college.
Explore available scholarships on our Scholarships website.
Idaho LAUNCH
This degree is approved for Idaho LAUNCH, a grant that supports Idaho students pursuing high-demand careers. Students enrolling under the 2026–27 Academic Catalog may be eligible for up to $4,000 per year / $8,000 total in scholarship funding through the Idaho LAUNCH program.
Learn about eligibility and application deadlines at nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch, or see our full list of approved U of I programs on the in-state scholarships page.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands-on learning
- Undergraduate research in faculty labs
Clubs
- Phi Sigma Honor Society
- College of Science Ambassadors
- Women in Science Society
- Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS)
- Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society
- U of I Pre-Med/Pre-PA Club
- U of I Pre-PT/OT/AT Organization
- U of I Food and Nutrition Club
- Global Medical Brigades
- U of I Environmental Science Club
- Society for Conservation Biology
Application information
Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.