Biology Department

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Biology — the science of life — is dynamic and diverse. Each living thing is an amazingly complex system. From our bodies to the viruses that infect us, from vast oceans to minute bacteria, each interacts with other living things in complex ways. 

Biology majors at Seattle Pacific University graduate with a broad understanding of living organisms. Through immersion in scientific inquiry and problem solving, you’ll develop fundamental skills and knowledge for entering a wide range of careers, including those in medicine, environmental science, research, and teaching.

We offer five undergraduate biology majors. Each one benefits students with a robust program emphasizing hands-on research.

 

We offer three biology minors to complement your major and enriching your scientific frame of reference.

 

Our urban location near Seattle’s biotechnology hub offers you opportunities for mentors and internships. You can also perform research through our Summer Research Program and present your research findings at local conferences.

Biology News

Biology students win again at the GNAC Track and Field Championships

Two Biology students excelled at the GNAC Women's Track and Field Championships in Bellingham, Washington on Saturday, May 10, 2025. Annika Esvelt (BS Applied Human Biology, 2025) won in the 5000m race, setting a new GNAC Championship record. Annika also took 3rd place in the 1500m race. Hannah Chang (BS Physiology, 2026) won in the 100m hurdles. Hannah was also a member of the 4x400 relay team which took 3rd place in the finals. Congratulations to Annika and Hannah!

Biology faculty honored at Celebration of Service

At SPU's annual Celebration of Service on May 8, four Biology faculty were recognized. Dr. Charlotte Pratt, Associate Professor of Biology, was honored for 20 years of service to SPU, while Dr. Tim Nelson, Professor of Biology, was honored for 30 years of service to SPU. Dr. Jenny Tenlen, Associate Professor of Biology, earned the Excellence in Teaching Award. Dr. Tracie Delgado, Professor of Biology, earned the Scholar of the Year Award for her outstanding student-centered research focused on identifying antiviral therapies to treat gammaherpesviruses-mediated cancer. Congratulations to these Biology faculty for their achievements!

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The Seattle Pacific University campus in a 360 circular globe

Visit Eaton Hall

Visit the Eaton Hall lobby without leaving home through SPU’s new 360 Virtual Tour. You can also tour Eaton Hall’s lecture hall.

Biology

Welcome to Biology!

Dr. Tracie Delgado, professor of biology, brings us a few words of welcome and introduction as part of Orientation 2020.

Med School Acceptance Rates

Over the last five years, SPU premed students have achieved an average acceptance rate into medical school of 80 percent — far exceeding the 39 percent national average.