The BASICS: BioHealth Sciences (BHS)

Department: Microbiology
Degrees offered: Bachelor of Science
Online option: Yes

What is biohealth science?

This field applies biological science to human health and society, studying the interrelationships between biological, physical, health and social sciences. The interdisciplinary BioHealth Sciences major equips students to excel in professional health programs like medical school as well as pharmaceutical and clinical research.

Why get a biohealth sciences degree?

Oregon State’s BioHealth Sciences curriculum is designed to give you the skills you need for a healthcare career. Your BioHealth Sciences degree from OSU will:

• prepare you for a rewarding healthcare career after graduation.
• help you drive future innovations in clinical practice, medical research and biomedical technologies.
• expose you to cutting-edge research techniques and technology you’ll use to interpret medical and research data.

What does health science research look like?

Health scientists perform a crucial role in promoting and preserving human health. Their work encompasses a wide array of responsibilities to improve healthcare outcomes.

At OSU, our BHS major is housed in the Department of Microbiology. The Department originated as a single Bacteriology course in 1899 and has since evolved into a world-class center for innovative and cutting-edge research on microbial communities in humans and animals.

Check out our department's research

These degree options are designed to meet most or all of the requirements for admission to corresponding health programs across the U.S. Satisfactory completion of your option facilitates, but does not guarantee, admission to a specialized health program; applicants are selected on a competitive basis.

Learn more about your BioHealth Sciences curriculum

• What kind of classes will you take?

Check out our list of BioHealth Sciences courses

• What could your class schedule look like over four years?

BioHealth Sciences sample plan

• What coursework does your major require?

BioHealth Sciences course requirements

BioHealth Sciences online degree

• You can also pursue the BHS major online, learning from the same Department of Microbiology faculty that teach on campus. Online students receive the same OSU diploma and transcripts as OSU's on-campus students.

Getting your BHS degree through OSU’s Ecampus

The EXPERIENCE: Hands-on opportunities

What makes a BioHealth Sciences degree from Oregon State better? One big reason: our hands-on learning experiences!

Undergraduate Research

This is your chance to see up close what it means to be a scientist. Don’t just study science in the classroom — get in a lab and contribute to it, working alongside world-class faculty!

Learn why undergraduate research is better here

Internships

Internships serve as your perfect transitional experience into a career field. Gain real-world career experience while exploring the career possibilities your degree opens up.

Learn about amazing internship opportunities

Study Abroad

Our students’ work spans the globe! Immerse yourself in another culture to gain a global perspective in your studies.

Take your science studies around the world

Clubs & Organizations

Here’s your chance to discover like-minded communities of peers who share your interests! Come together and engage in meaningful ways.

Connect with a club and more members of Team Science

The SUPPORT: Learning resources for science students

Team Science is here to help you thrive. Our student support is another reason we always say, "science is better at Oregon State." As a Team Science student, you'll have access to a huge array of support services and resources designed to thrive both in and out of the classroom. Here are some places to get started:

• Want to know more about everything Team Science has to offer?

Check out our student resources page

• Love learning in smaller, collaborative group settings?

Explore our Learning Assistant Program

• Want more help in a specific science subject?

Learn more about our four science-focused tutoring centers

• Curious about the BioHealth Sciences advising experience?

BioHealth Sciences majors benefit from our advising team in the Department of Microbiology:

Visit the microbiology department's advising page

And of course, you can always reach out to our student Peer Advisors at sciencesuccess@oregonstate.edu with questions, as well! Our Peer Advisor team is friendly, helpful and can share their first-hand knowledge of the Oregon State experience.

The PAYOFF: Careers in BioHealth Sciences

What jobs can you get with a BioHealth Sciences degree?

Our students find rewarding and relevant jobs thanks to degree options in pre-clinical laboratory science, pre-medicine/pre-podiatry, pre-dentistry, pre-pharmacy, pre-optometry, pre-physician assistant and pre-physical therapy.

Here are just several examples of jobs our BHS alumni have earned:

• Neurosurgery Physician Assistant | Providence
• Senior Biologist | Eli Lilly and Company
• Physical Therapist | ProMotion AFR
• Optometrist | Mile High Eye Institute
• Registered Nurse | Providence St. Vincent Health Center
• Clinical Research Associate | Formosa Biomedical Technology Corporation
• Formulation Technical Team Lead | BioFire Diagnostics
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Intern | John Peter Smith Hospital
• Dental Student | OHSU School of Dentistry
• Pharmacist | Pacific University School of Pharmacy/Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center