A student in a white lab coat holds a vile containing green liquid in the air

Department of Biological Sciences

From general biology to medical careers, our department helps you succeed with a comprehensive education in the biological sciences.

Academic Programs

Our rigorous programs bring real-world experience to the classroom, building the knowledge you need to succeed.

Undergraduate


Graduate

Bianca Cortez

Biological Sciences was a good foundation and pre-professional option for preparing for dental school.

A PNW student in a Purdue Northwest hoodie on campus

If you're looking for a campus that supports well-rounded students through academia and getting involved, PNW is an amazing place.

Zebaneeka Washington, ‘24, Biological Sciences

Theodore Mantis

The professors have a passion to want to teach, they want you to succeed and they would take the time to help you understand concepts and connections.

Aaron Ramirez

I never imagined in college I would have classes of 20 students or less. It allowed me to build connections with faculty and staff. It all just made sense and truly did feel like home.

PNW provided me with a strong science foundation. I was able to build a relationship with many of the faculty and staff. They taught me leadership and allowed me to grow as an individual.

Jodan Nikkel is pictured.

My experience as a biology student at Purdue Northwest was highlighted by ample opportunities to learn and grow both inside and outside of the classroom. Moving forward as a graduate student and researcher, I’ll always be proud to say that I went to Purdue University Northwest!

Jordan J. Nikkel, Biological Sciences, ’21

Megan Gliva is pictured.

My experiences at PNW have given me the confidence and skill set I needed to continue the pursuit of success outside of the classroom. If I could give one piece of advice to any student at PNW, it would be to not be afraid to ask any and all questions. It’s the best way to find the correct answers.

Megan Gliva, Biological Sciences MS, ’21

Rachel Pash is pictured.

College isn’t just about attending classes. It’s also about getting involved, gaining relevant experience and making connections. PNW offered that well-rounded experience.

Rachel Pash, Biological Sciences, ’21

Resources

Two students hold a petri dish up to the light

Take the Journey

Admissions

Explore how you can apply to our myriad of programs, from biological to medical laboratory science.

a student stands and looks at a laptop

Student Resources

Invest Your Future

Take advantage of resources that will contribute to your success, including scholarships, internships and research opportunities.

A professor sits in front of a projector screen

Contributing to Science

Faculty & Research

There are many opportunities to gain hands-on research experience with our recognized faculty.

News & Announcements

A student studies at a lab bench.

Purdue University Northwest Announces Wide Range of Summer Camp Programs for K-12 Students

Parents looking for fun and engaging programs for their children for summer 2024 can check out more than 20 programs serving a variety of interests for K-12 students. PNW summer camps allow participants to have fun while gaining memorable hands-on experiences.

John Durocher stands in a lab

Improving Community Health

John Durocher, Nils K. Nelson Endowed Professor of Integrative Human Health in the Department of Biological Sciences, is committed to providing his students with an enriching and engaging learning experience.

A lion sculpture outside PNW's Nils K Nelson Bioscience Innovation Building

Purdue University Northwest students earn 2023 fall semester Dean’s List honors

The Purdue University Northwest (PNW) 2023 fall semester Dean’s List recognizes 1,691 undergraduate students for their academic achievements.

Upcoming Biological Sciences Events

Apr 27

Spring 2024 Classes End

Spring 2024 Classes end Saturday, April 27. Final exams are next week!

Apr 29

Spring 2024 Final Exams

Spring 2024 final exams run April 29 through May 4. Good luck on your finals!

May 04

Spring 2024 Commencement

Spring 2024 Commencement ceremonies will be held outdoors at the Hammond campus on Saturday, May 4, 2024.

May 13

Summer 2024 Session I Classes Begin

First day of Summer 2024 Session I Classes, including 12-week session, first six-week session and first four-week session.