Widener University

What you'll study

This degree integrates core courses in chemistry, physics and biology with specialised training in molecular-level techniques and quantitative analysis. Early coursework builds a strong foundation in general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics and calculus, then progresses to intermediate and advanced topics such as biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology and genetics.

• Core subjects: general and organic chemistry, physical chemistry principles relevant to biomolecules, calculus and physics for the life sciences.
• Molecular and cellular topics: biochemistry, molecular genetics, cell biology, enzymology and signal transduction.
• Biophysics and quantitative methods: structural biology, spectroscopy, thermodynamics of biomolecules, quantitative data analysis and modelling.
• Laboratory and practical skills: hands-on lab courses emphasising molecular cloning, protein purification and analysis, microscopy, electrophoresis, PCR and contemporary instrumentation.
• Research and capstone experience: mentored undergraduate research in faculty laboratories, a senior thesis or capstone project, and opportunities for internships with local industry or clinical laboratories.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: courses in bioinformatics, computational biology, pharmacology, neuroscience or environmental biology allow you to tailor the degree to specific interests.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary-school qualification and demonstrate strong preparation in mathematics and the sciences. Typical preparation includes high-school chemistry and biology, and coursework in algebra and geometry; calculus or additional mathematics is advantageous.

• Competitive academic record with particular strength in science and mathematics subjects.
• Preparation in high-school chemistry and biology is expected; experience in laboratory classes is beneficial.
• Admissions may consider standardised test scores where submitted, personal statements, and letters of recommendation to assess motivation for scientific study.
• Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts; previous coursework in chemistry, biology and calculus will be evaluated for advanced standing.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with the technical and analytical skills required for a range of scientific careers or further study. The programme is designed to prepare students for both immediate employment and for graduate or professional programmes.

• Research and industry: laboratory technician, research associate in biotechnology, pharmaceutical development, or diagnostics.
• Clinical and applied roles: positions in clinical laboratories, quality control, regulatory affairs and product development (some roles may require certification or additional training).
• Further study: many graduates pursue graduate school (MS/PhD) in molecular biology, biochemistry or biophysics, or professional schools such as medicine, dentistry or pharmacy.
• Other pathways: science communication, patent law (with further legal training), sales and technical support for life-science companies, and teaching with appropriate certification.

Why study at Widener University

Widener emphasises undergraduate research and close faculty mentorship, enabling students to gain hands-on laboratory experience early in their studies. Small class sizes support active learning and personalised advising, while faculty-led research projects allow undergraduates to contribute to publishable work or conference presentations.

• Laboratory facilities: access to modern teaching and research laboratories with instrumentation used in contemporary molecular biology and biochemistry.
• Internships and regional connections: proximity to Philadelphia and local biotech and healthcare organisations provides internship and networking opportunities.
• Interdisciplinary environment: the programme’s combination of chemistry, physics and biology prepares graduates to tackle complex, cross-disciplinary problems in the life sciences.
• Preparation for next steps: structured advising and career support help students plan for graduate school, professional programmes or entry into the biotech workforce.