Department of Biology

Understanding the Living World

The study of living organisms is an essential part of a liberal education, helping students better understand the human person in relationship to both the Creator and his creation. The Department of Biology provides students with a strong foundation in the organization and function of living systems, the diversity of life, the relationships between organisms and their environments, and the biological aspects of the human person. Integrated with knowledge from other disciplines, these studies lead to a deeper appreciation of God and his works.

Two Programs, Many More Possibilities


While all biology majors complete a shared core curriculum, each program can be tailored to a student’s career goals. Students may prepare for graduate study in biological research or professional programs such as medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, veterinary medicine, optometry, and other allied health fields. The program also prepares students for careers in life science education, research laboratories, and clinical laboratories.

Beyond the Classroom

Franciscan Institute for Science and Health

The Franciscan Institute for Science and Health (FISH) is an initiative of Franciscan University of Steubenville with a mission to provide real-world experience and hands-on training to every Franciscan undergraduate science major and Engineering Dual-Degree student.

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Franciscan Institute for World Health

The Franciscan Institute for World Health (FIWH) provides and coordinates global health-focused educational trainings and experiences for committed and dedicated undergraduates with a secondary goal of fostering lifelong compassion and career connection to serve the unmet health needs of the neglected people of the world.

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Department Faculty