Georgetown University

What you'll study

This four-year degree blends core coursework in the physical sciences with contemporary biological topics and hands-on laboratory experience. Students follow a liberal arts curriculum alongside a structured major programme: foundational courses in calculus and statistics, introductory and intermediate sequences in physics and chemistry, and core biological modules that introduce molecular and cellular principles.

• Core scientific foundations: calculus, linear algebra, statistics and computational methods for data analysis.
• Physical sciences: classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, introductory quantum concepts and physical chemistry.
• Chemistry: general chemistry, organic chemistry, and laboratory techniques emphasising synthesis and analytical methods.
• Biological sciences: cell and molecular biology, genetics, physiology and modern laboratory approaches such as molecular techniques and microscopy.
• Interdisciplinary and applied themes: biophysics, materials science, environmental physics, computational biology and courses that explore the interface between physics, chemistry and living systems.
• Research and practical experience: successive laboratory courses, independent research projects or a senior thesis, and opportunities for summer research placements through on-campus centres and affiliated hospitals.

Electives and seminars allow students to specialise toward interests such as biotechnology, medical physics, environmental science or quantitative biology. Coursework emphasises experimental design, data analysis, scientific communication and ethical dimensions of research.

Structure

• Typical structure spans four academic years with progressive depth: introductory coursework in year one, intermediate and laboratory courses in years two and three, and a capstone research project or thesis in the final year.
• Students complete Georgetown’s college-wide core curriculum alongside major requirements, enabling breadth across humanities, social sciences and ethics.

Entry requirements

Admission to undergraduate programmes at Georgetown is selective. Successful applicants typically present a strong secondary-school record with emphasis on STEM subjects. Recommended preparation includes high-level study in mathematics (calculus where available), chemistry and physics, and experience with laboratory coursework.

• Academic credentials: a high school diploma or recognised equivalent with strong grades in science and mathematics courses.
• Recommended subjects: calculus, chemistry (including laboratory work), physics and biology; coursework in computer science or statistics is advantageous.
• Supporting materials: personal statement or essays describing scientific interests, letters of recommendation (preferably including at least one from a science teacher), and any evidence of research experience or extracurricular engagement in STEM activities.
• International applicants: should meet Georgetown’s general admissions requirements and provide recognised national or international qualifications; evidence of English language proficiency may be required where appropriate.

Meeting these guidelines does not guarantee admission; decisions are based on the overall strength of each applicant’s file. Prospective students are encouraged to speak with admissions advisers and review the university’s official guidance on admissions requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme are well positioned for a range of postgraduate study and career paths. Many proceed to advanced degrees (PhD, MD, DPhil) or professional programmes in medicine, dentistry and allied health. Others move directly into roles in industry, government and the non-profit sector.

• Research and academia: laboratory scientist, research assistant, doctoral study in physics, chemistry, biology or interdisciplinary fields.
• Healthcare and allied professions: preparation for medical, dental or other clinical professional programmes, as well as biomedical research roles.
• Industry and technology: roles in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, materials and instrumentation companies, or technical positions in engineering and data analysis.
• Science policy and public sector: policy analyst, regulatory affairs, science advising and roles in government agencies and NGOs—benefiting from Georgetown’s location in Washington, D.C.
• Education and communication: science teaching, outreach, and scientific writing or communication.

Georgetown’s career services, research centres and local partnerships provide internship and networking opportunities with research hospitals, federal agencies and private-sector employers, helping graduates transition into professional roles or further study.

Why study at Georgetown University

Georgetown offers an education that combines a rigorous scientific curriculum with a broad liberal arts foundation and an emphasis on ethical reflection and public engagement. The university’s location in Washington, D.C., creates distinctive opportunities for experiential learning—internships, policy engagement and collaborative research with nearby hospitals, federal laboratories and research institutions.

• Interdisciplinary research opportunities: access to faculty-led research across departments and connections with Georgetown’s medical centres and research institutes.
• Strong laboratory training: sequential lab courses and the option to undertake independent research or a senior thesis under faculty supervision.
• Professional development: career services, alumni networks and internships in government, industry and NGOs that help translate scientific training into careers.
• Liberal arts context: a curriculum that encourages communication, critical thinking and ethical reasoning alongside technical competence.

Together these features make Georgetown an attractive choice for students seeking a scientifically rigorous, research-focused undergraduate education with access to policy and professional pathways in the nation’s capital.