Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biological Sciences
From pharmacology to botany to cytology, Azusa Pacific University’s Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences delivers a rigorous, skill-focused education that unlocks the wonders of God’s creation.
Why Major in Biological Sciences at APU?
Launch your future in science by earning a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences at Azusa Pacific University. Rooted in a Christ-centered framework, this program connects scientific discovery with faith, equipping you to approach biological innovation with curiosity, purpose, and integrity.
Through hands-on research and a comprehensive curriculum, you’ll build a strong foundation in the life sciences that opens pathways to graduate study or careers in medicine, health care, conservation, ecology, biotechnology, microbiology, science education, and more.
As a biological sciences major at APU, you’ll benefit from
- an interdisciplinary curriculum that builds a strong foundation in core biological sciences, including molecular biology, ecology, and physiology;
- specialized concentrations in cellular and molecular biology, biological systems, and ecological biology to tailor your training to your professional goals;
- hands-on experiments and applied coursework that strengthen your laboratory and research skills and build familiarity with advanced scientific instrumentation; and
- real-world research projects and internships, allowing you to collaborate with faculty and gain industry experience.
Program at a Glance
Take your potential to the next level at APU. Programs in the School of Humanities and Sciences take a whole-person approach, ensuring that you grow intellectually, professionally, and spiritually so you can inspire those around you.
Application Deadline
At APU, we have rolling admissions. This means we accept and review applications continuously.
Program Information
- Program Units: 73-77
Location
What You’ll Learn
Our world is complex, interconnected, and full of wonder—and APU’s BS in Biological Sciences equips you with the knowledge and hands-on experience to study and understand God’s creation. Through an integrated curriculum spanning biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics, you’ll gain a strong scientific foundation and a well-rounded skill set to tackle real-world challenges
As a biological sciences major at APU, you’ll
- examine cell structure, function, and genetic processes through coursework in cell biology, microbiology, and genetics;
- apply scientific methods to design experiments, collect data, and interpret results through hands-on lab experience;
- connect biological processes to principles in organic chemistry, calculus, and physics to explain how living systems function;
- use mathematical modeling, data analysis, and quantitative reasoning to solve complex biological questions and inform research decisions; and
- explore the interrelations between scientific advancement, ethical responsibility, and the Christian perspective.
Depending on your long-term goals, you can choose 17-18 units of upper-division electives or pursue a concentration in cellular and molecular biology, biological systems, or ecological biology.
Get Started
Biological Sciences Program Details
Answer your calling to explore the natural world through APU’s BS in Biological Sciences. This program connects rigorous scientific training with hands-on experience, preparing you to push the boundaries of discovery and shape human health, environmental sustainability, and scientific innovation.
From the start, you’ll examine life at every level—from molecules to ecosystems—while gaining practice asking critical questions, designing experiments, and interpreting data with precision. With these skills, you’re ready to contribute to research, inform solutions, and take meaningful steps toward a thriving career or advanced studies.
Do you want to become a middle or high school science teacher? Your journey begins with APU’s 4+1 Accelerated Pathway, which empowers you to earn a Master of Arts in Education and a Single Subject Teaching Credential just one year after finishing the BS in Biological Sciences. With this accelerated path, you’ll save time and money and expedite your transition to the classroom.
Through our 4+1 pathway, you can
- apply as early as your junior year after completing at least 60 units;
- begin graduate-level coursework during your senior year, completing up to 9 units early;
- earn an MA in Education and teaching credential in just 12 months after graduation;
- prepare to teach biology at the middle or high school level with focused training and mentorship; and
- work closely with your academic advisor to plan your courses and stay on track.
Jump-start your career at Azusa Pacific University. Our easy undergraduate admissions process helps you take the next step toward a purpose-filled education.
The prerequisites and required next steps for applying to APU may vary depending on your student type. For more detailed admissions information, select your enrollment path:
Have questions along the way? Connect with our dedicated admissions representatives to get the support you need.
Requirements for Biological Sciences Majors
While the Department of Biology and Chemistry does not cap enrollment in these majors, you must demonstrate certain levels of academic achievement to enter and remain in these majors.
Freshman Applicants
To qualify for a major in biological sciences, freshman applicants must submit documentation of the following (or their equivalents) and indicate their choice of that major to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions before the start of classes. After that date, the requirements in the Matriculated APU Students section below must be met.
Prerequisites include:
- High school GPA of 3.0+
- At least three years of high school math (an average of C- or better across all three years) or SAT Math score of 530+ or ACT Math score of 21+
- At least two years of high school science (with a B or better in either biology or chemistry)
Transfer Applicants
Transfer applicants applying to our biological sciences degree program must submit documentation of the following (or their equivalents) and indicate their choice of that major to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions before the start of classes. After that date, the requirements in the Matriculated APU Students section below must be met.
Prerequisites include:
- Community college/university GPA of 2.8+
- Completion of Intermediate Algebra or higher (C- or better)
- Completion of a one-semester science course (C- or better, biology or chemistry course recommended)
Matriculated APU Students
To gain admission into the biological sciences program, matriculating APU students must submit evidence of all of the following:
- Completion of BIOL 151 or CHEM 151 (C- or higher)
- Completion of MATH 95, current ALEKS score of 45+, SAT Math score of 530+, or ACT Math score of 21+
- Completion of prospective major advising in the Department of Biology and Chemistry
Department Policies
These policies apply to all students enrolled in courses offered by the department:
- A student must complete all prerequisites for a BIOC, BIOL, or CHEM course with a C- or higher before taking the course (except as noted in the course description).
- Students with a total of three unsuccessful attempts (below C-) in any combination of BIOC, BIOL, and CHEM courses will be automatically dropped from subsequent enrollment in department courses.
- Any single BIOC, BIOL, or CHEM course may be taken only two times at APU.
- Students may not earn a chemistry minor if they are majoring in biochemistry, nor may they earn a biology minor if they are majoring in allied health or biochemistry.
- Students missing more than three labs in a course receive an automatic F in the course.
- Courses with labs in an online or correspondence format are not allowed to transfer as BIOC, BIOL, or CHEM courses.
Additional Requirements
All biological sciences majors must meet these requirements. Failure to do so will result in a student being dropped from the major. Reentry to the major is by petition only.
- A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 in all biology, chemistry, biochemistry, math, and physics courses required for the major or minor must be maintained.
- A student must complete each course required for the major or minor with a C- or higher for the course to meet a degree requirement in the Department of Biology and Chemistry.
- Any single class within the major or minor can be taken only two times at APU; students must change to a major or minor outside the department after two unsuccessful (below C-) attempts in a single required course.
- Only two courses total within the major or minor can be repeated; students must change to a major or minor outside the department after unsuccessful (below C-) attempts in any three required courses.
- While courses required of the major or minor may be taken at other accredited institutions, subject to approval via a transfer inquiry form, lecture and laboratory components must be taken at the same institution in the same semester.
- It is strongly recommended that freshmen in all biological sciences majors (including biochemistry) take General Chemistry I (CHEM 151) and General Biology I (BIOL 151) the first year, and that chemistry majors start with General Chemistry I (CHEM 151) and Calculus I (MATH 165) the first year. Should the math placement assessment require the student to take algebra, then that course should be taken in the first year, and a five-year program may be indicated.
- Some medical schools and graduate programs may not accept AP credit toward admission requirements, so students who receive AP biology or AP chemistry credit should consider taking BIOL 151 and/or CHEM 151, respectively, if applicable.
- Students may take a maximum of 3 units total from BIOL 390, BIOL 391, BIOL 394, BIOL 395, BIOL 490, or BIOL 497 for elective credit toward the BS in Biological Sciences.
The following courses may not be taken to meet upper-division elective requirements in any major or minor in the department: BIOL 325, BIOL 330, BIOL 400, and BIOL 470.
Achieve more at Azusa Pacific University. For decades, we’ve been dedicated to making Christian education affordable. That’s why we provide a comprehensive range of financial aid options, including federal loans, state grants, fellowships, and scholarships.
For more information, contact the Student Services Center at (626) 815-2020.
Scholarships and Grants
Scholarships and grants are considered gift aid, meaning they do not require repayment. These awards may come from federal, state, institutional, or private sources. Scholarships are often merit-based and awarded for academic achievement, leadership, or other demonstrated talents.
While APU does award scholarships, you can also find external scholarship opportunities through websites such as Finaid and Fastweb. Contact the Student Services Center about scholarships offered through APU departments or local organizations.
Student Employment
Along with gift aid and student loans, you can apply for on-campus student employment opportunities to earn additional income to pay for education-related expenses. As an APU student, you can also find work off campus in the surrounding community.
Military and Veterans Benefits
If you are a veteran, serve in the military, or qualify as a spouse or dependent, you may access financial assistance that helps cover the cost of tuition, housing, and books. As a Yellow Ribbon and Military Friendly School, APU offers the support and flexibility needed to help you complete your bachelor’s degree.
Net Price Calculator
We’re committed to helping you understand the value of the APU experience early in the college search process. Once you’ve explored the financial aid opportunities available, take the next step by estimating your cost to attend. The Net Price Calculator provides a personalized estimate based on the information you share, so you can start planning today!
At APU, we’re committed to delivering the highest quality education, backed by respected accreditation and academic excellence. Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
By the Numbers
Student-to-faculty Ratio
of incoming students receive financial aid
Career Outcomes for Biological Sciences Majors
APU’s BS in Biological Sciences opens the door to a wide range of science-focused careers that feed your passion for discovery and improving our world. Whether you want to work in health care, biomedical research, or education, the program prepares you to follow your calling and enter the workforce as a competitive candidate.
Equipped with a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, you can step into entry-level roles across industries, including:
- Biomedical and pharmaceutical sales, connecting innovative treatments with healthcare providers.
- Laboratory and field technician positions in conservation, agriculture, food science, or health sciences.
- Research support roles in university, clinical, or hospital settings.
Alternatively, upon completing the biological sciences degree program, you’ll graduate with the research experience and academic foundation needed to pursue advanced degrees in areas such as the following:
- Medicine (MD)
- Dentistry
- Optometry
- Veterinary science
- Pharmacology and biotechnology
- Biomedical research
Zuleika Franco ’23: Getting to Know God Better Through Biology
Biological sciences major Zuleika Franco ’23 landed an internship at the top hospital in California while studying at APU and acknowledges the life-changing support of her professors.
Department of Biology and Chemistry Faculty
Inside and outside the classroom, APU’s faculty share their in-depth scientific expertise and industry insights with you. From offering personalized mentorship to collaborating with students on research projects, they’ll play an integral role in your academic and professional development.
Charles Chen
Professor, Department of Biology and Chemistry
Sarah Richart
Professor, Department of Biology and Chemistry
Pioneer Scientific Discovery with APU’s BS in Biological Sciences
Turn curiosity into meaningful impact at Azusa Pacific University. The Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences degree program offers transformative hands-on research, lab experiences, and professional development opportunities that prepare you to innovate in the science and healthcare sectors.
Find your place in our collaborative learning community—apply to APU today!
Note: This information is current for the 2025-26 academic year, but all stated academic information is subject to change. Refer to the current academic catalog for more information.