Program Overview
The human biology major at the University of Kansas provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the human body, evolution, genetics, and health. Housed within the Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, this Bachelor of Arts program emphasizes evolutionary theory, organismal biology, and the scientific study of human diversity. This program integrates biological sciences with anthropology, psychology, and other disciplines to give students a broad perspective on human biology. As a student in the human biology degree, you will gain critical skills in scientific research, data analysis, and problem-solving, preparing you for careers in healthcare, research, and beyond.
The human biology major is designed for students who want a strong foundation in biology with a focused exploration of human evolution, variation, and biological systems. Coursework begins with core principles in molecular and cellular biology and organismal biology, then progresses to upper-level classes that explore human genetics, physiology, and evolutionary processes. Throughout the program, students complete a rigorous sequence of laboratory-based human biology class experiences that build technical competency and analytical reasoning skills.
Because the human biology major is interdisciplinary, students examine humans from the scientific lenses of biological, evolutionary, and ecological, while also developing quantitative and research skills. Whether you plan to pursue graduate study, professional healthcare training, or enter the workforce directly, the program provides a structured yet flexible pathway aligned with human biology major requirements outlined in the KU Catalog.
The human biology major at KU emphasizes both classroom instruction and experiential learning. Students are encouraged to participate in independent research, honors projects, or laboratory collaborations that strengthen preparation for competitive human biology major jobs and professional programs.
Learn more about KU
Undergraduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Human Biology, BAKU College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
The Bachelor’s in Human Biology is part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, home to a collaborative and creative community making the world better through inquiry and research.Bachelor’s in Human Biology Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the human biology degree program will be able to:
- Understand and explain fundamental principles of evolutionary biology, human variation, genetics, and organismal biology.
- Apply the scientific method to develop hypotheses, design experiments, and analyze biological data.
- Interpret quantitative and statistical information relevant to biological research.
- Evaluate primary scientific literature and synthesize findings into evidence-based conclusions.
- Communicate scientific concepts effectively in written and oral formats.
These outcomes align with the expectations for biology majors in the KU Catalog and reflect the analytical, laboratory, and communication skills developed through each required human biology course.
What Careers Are Possible with a Bachelor’s in Human Biology?
A human biology major opens the door to a wide range of science-focused and healthcare-oriented career paths. Many graduates pursue advanced education in medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, physician assistant studies, or other health professions. Others move directly into research or applied science roles.
Common pathways include:
- Medical and healthcare professions (physician, physician assistant, physical therapist)
- Biotechnology and pharmaceutical research
- Genetic counseling and laboratory genetics
- Academic, clinical, or industry research
- Public health and science communication
Because the human biology degree emphasizes evolution, genetics, and organismal biology, graduates are well prepared for research-based roles and competitive professional programs. According to Lightcast, professionals in biology and healthcare-related fields continue to see steady demand, particularly in laboratory sciences and healthcare services.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU offers a variety of financial aid opportunities to make earning your degree in human biology more affordable. Learn more about tuition and funding options at KU Financial Aid.Admission Requirements
All students interested in the human biology major must meet the standard University of Kansas admission requirements for incoming freshman and transfer students. This includes:
Freshman
- 3.25 high school GPA OR
- An official ACT score of at least 21 or an official SAT score of at least 1060 with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale
Transfer
- Assured admission with 24+ transferable credit hours with a 2.5+ GPA from a regionally accredited higher education institution.
For detailed admission requirements, visit KU Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experience
At KU, students in the human biology major have opportunities to participate in undergraduate research projects in genetics, molecular biology, evolutionary biology, and human physiology. Faculty-led research initiatives allow students to gain hands-on experience that enhances their understanding of each advanced human biology class.
Students may present research at campus symposiums, collaborate in laboratory groups, or assist with field-based research in ecology and evolution. These experiences reinforce core concepts introduced in the classroom and provide applied training that strengthens preparation for degree in biology jobs or professional study.
KU also offers a dynamic student experience with access to student organizations such as the Biology Club, Pre-Med Society, and research symposiums. Networking events, mentorship programs, and internships further enhance academic and career preparation.
Bachelor’s in Human Biology Sample Courses
As a human biology major, you will complete foundational and advanced coursework that supports a comprehensive understanding of human biology. Sample courses include:
- Principles of Molecular and Cellular Biology
- Principles of Organismal Biology
- Introduction to Biostatistics
- Human Variation and Evolution
- Becoming Human
Each required human biology course builds scientific literacy, quantitative skills, and laboratory competency. For the full list of required courses, visit the KU Catalog.
Bachelor’s in Human Biology Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications are open and accepted on a rolling basis.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in four years.
Why choose KU for your human biology major?
- Interdisciplinary Curriculum: Study human biology from multiple scientific perspectives, including molecular biology, genetics, ecology, and evolution.
- Research Opportunities: Engage in hands-on research with faculty in state-of-the-art laboratories and field-based research settings.
- Flexible Career Paths: Graduates pursue careers in healthcare, research, education, biotechnology, and other science-focused industries.
- Faculty Mentorship: Work closely with faculty who are active researchers in evolutionary biology, human variation, genetics, and organismal biology.