Students interested in pursuing a degree in Biological or Biomedical Sciences are encouraged to consult with departmental faculty advisers and a College of Arts and Sciences Academic Adviser to plan coursework or to discuss any aspect of their undergraduate career. Pre-Professional Advising serves OU students who are pursuing graduate programs in the healthcare professions, specifically in preparation for application and admissions.
Biological Sciences
The Science of Life
Biological Sciences
Explore the dynamic world of biomedical, ecological, and life sciences at the Department of Biological Sciences, where innovative coursework, faculty-led research, and hands-on experiences propel your learning forward.
Our programs equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for graduate studies, research in private and government sectors, and professional careers in health sciences, ecology, conservation, and education. Develop your passion for biological sciences through dedicated faculty mentorship, cutting-edge research, and immersive learning opportunities at OU.
With a strong foundation in life sciences, our graduates are prepared to tackle global challenges in medicine, sustainability, and environmental stewardship, opening doors to diverse and impactful career paths.
Biology Related Programs/Careers that can be explored with a degree in Biology
- Physician (MD, DO); Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine
- Pharmacy, Physician Assistant (PA), Physical Therapy (PT)
- Chiropractic Medicine, Genetic Counseling, Medical Technician or Technologist
- Agricultural professional, Conservation Biologist, Fish and game warden, Natural Sciences managers
- Non-medical science technicians, Soil & Plant sciences
- Secondary Education, Professor
- Researcher, Research Technician
- Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals, Food Science, Agriculture Research & Development
- Environmental Consulting Firm, Environmental
- Patent Law, Sales — Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals, Agriculture Scientific Equipment
- Science Writing, Illustrating, Publishing and Sales
- Bioethics
- Ecosystem Science and Management
- Policy/Law, Research (CDC, EPA, USFWS, NMFS, USDA, DEC)
- Regulation & Enforcement (EPA, DEC, USFDA, USDA)
- Fish & Game, National Park Service, State Parks, Water Districts, Wildlife Ecology
Advising
BIO Learning Lounge
The BIO Learning Lounge is an inviting, safe space for all students taking any course offered by the Department of Biological Sciences. Our mission is to help you discover, engage and belong at OU, whether you are a freshman starting out or a senior about to graduate.
Course Schedule
The Course Schedule provides a comprehensive listing of all courses offered by the Department of Biological Sciences.
Only students, faculty and staff who have a NetID and are on the OU Network may access the Course Schedule.
News
- Teaching in Place series equips faculty to take advantage of the whole campus when teaching
- Biology professor’s genetics research highlighted in top academic journal
- Oakland University appointed U.N. Academic Impact Vice-Chair for partnership, outreach
- OU chapter of Sigma Xi celebrates 50th anniversary
- Oakland University, Oakland Community College expand articulation agreements to include biology
- New BS in Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology degree program prepares students for diverse careers
- Acclaimed environmental writer Dan Egan to speak at OU
- OU’s Campus Student Organic Farm dedicates new hoophouse, dubbed the ‘Salad Palace'
- New outdoor learning space
- Public invited to free training for Michigan Bumble Bee Atlas Program
- Oakland University professor co-leads study of aquatic-based, human-driven impacts on climate change
- Fulbright scholar Sara Fatima hopes to make a difference through science
- OU professor receives award to help train scientists in conservation genetics in Namibia
- Biology professor to use Fulbright Award for genetics research
- Researchers optimistic after beaver sighted on OU campus
- OU students earn nine awards at annual Sigma Xi conference
- OU grad student, Biology professor publish light pollution research
- OU receives $2 million NSF grant to train students in STEM-driven entrepreneurship
- New BIO Learning Lounge offers academic resources, mentoring and belonging
- Guatemalan students visit OU to learn more about freshwater ecology, sustainability
- The Cornerstone of Success
- Students explore tropical ecosystems in Ecuador
- OU researchers publish mitochondrial genome of long-spined sea urchin, guardian of Caribbean coral reefs
- OU student studying light pollution awarded prestigious NSF fellowship
- OU professor helps discover, describe new species of gecko in Puerto Rico
- OU professor studying effects of microgravity on human pluripotent stem cells
- OU students take home six awards at annual Sigma Xi conference








