Brigham Young University

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational coursework in cellular and systems physiology with focused study of pathological processes and laboratory methods. Core topics typically include cellular physiology, human anatomy, systems physiology (cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, neurophysiology), endocrinology, immunology, and the molecular and cellular mechanisms of disease.

• Foundations: general biology, general and organic chemistry, introductory biochemistry and genetics to build molecular-level understanding.
• Physiology sequence: courses examining organ-system function, integrative physiology labs, and comparative physiology components.
• Pathology and disease mechanisms: modules on cellular injury, inflammation, host defence, tumour biology and organ-specific pathologies.
• Laboratory skills and methods: histology, microscopy, molecular biology techniques, data analysis, and experimental design within hands-on lab courses.
• Research and capstone: opportunities for undergraduate research, a senior seminar or capstone project, and presentation of findings; many students complete mentored laboratory research with faculty.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: pharmacology, neuroscience, public health, bioethics, and internships or clinical observation experiences to support pre-health career planning.

The degree is structured to balance lecture-based instruction and extensive laboratory practicals; many students follow recommended pathways that satisfy pre-medical or other professional school prerequisites.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong secondary-school record with emphasis on mathematics and the life sciences. Typical preparation includes high-school biology and chemistry, and recommended coursework in algebra or precalculus; further preparation in physics and additional maths is advantageous.

• Academic preparation: competitive high-school GPA, strong grades in science and maths, and completion of introductory chemistry and biology where available.
• Standard tests and English language: BYU evaluates applications holistically; international applicants will need to demonstrate English proficiency according to the university's published requirements.
• Transfer applicants: will be assessed on college coursework and GPA, with expectation of strong performance in foundational science courses.
• Community standards: all students agree to and live by BYU's Honor Code and related behavioural standards; applicants should review these expectations as part of the admissions process.

Admission to the major may be competitive; early advising with the department is recommended to plan prerequisites and timely progression through the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates are well prepared for a range of health, research and science-related careers. Common paths include admission to professional schools (medicine, dentistry, physician assistant programmes), graduate research degrees (MS, PhD) and roles in clinical or laboratory settings.

• Pre-health and clinical careers: many students pursue medical, dental or allied health programmes; others enter roles such as clinical laboratory scientist or physician assistant after additional training.
• Research and industry: positions as research assistants or technicians in academic, government or pharmaceutical laboratories, and progression to graduate study in biomedical sciences.
• Other opportunities: careers in biotechnology, medical device companies, public health, health education, regulatory affairs, or scientific sales and communication.

BYU’s pre-health advising, alumni network and undergraduate research experience support strong preparation for postgraduate training and employment in biomedical fields.

Why study at Brigham Young University

BYU offers a strong undergraduate learning environment with a high degree of faculty contact, hands-on laboratory training and accessible research opportunities. The Life Sciences departments emphasise mentored undergraduate research, small-group instruction in laboratory courses and integrated advising for students pursuing professional health careers or graduate study.

• Undergraduate focus: emphasis on student research, teaching by experienced faculty and opportunities to present at symposia or co-author publications.
• Support for pre-health students: structured advising, application workshops for professional schools and connections to local clinical and research sites for observation and internships.
• Community and values: a campus community with a distinct values framework and student life shaped by the university’s standards, which many students find supportive for academic and personal development.
• Facilities: modern teaching and research laboratories, microscopy and imaging resources, and collaborative centres that enable interdisciplinary learning.

Prospective students should contact BYU’s admissions and the Department of Physiology or related life-science departments for detailed guidance on programme planning, research opportunities and pathways to careers or graduate study.