St. John's University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary programme integrates core principles of chemistry, physics and biology to explore the molecular basis of life. You will build a foundation in general and organic chemistry, physics, calculus and statistics before progressing to specialised molecular and cellular courses.

Core subjects and modules

• General Chemistry and Laboratory Techniques
• Organic Chemistry and Spectroscopy
• Physical Chemistry/ Biophysical Principles
• Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics
• Biochemistry I & II (metabolism, enzymes, macromolecules)
• Molecular Biology Techniques (PCR, cloning, electrophoresis)
• Structural Biology and Protein Biophysics
• Genomics, Proteomics and Bioinformatics
• Laboratory Practicum and Advanced Experimental Methods
• Capstone Research Project or Independent Study in a faculty laboratory

Students typically combine classroom learning with extensive laboratory work, including multi-week experiments, computational analysis and an independent research project supervised by departmental faculty. Electives allow focus in areas such as neuroscience, immunology, pharmacology, environmental molecular biology or biotechnology.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a strong high-school background in the sciences and mathematics. Typical expectations include successful completion of courses in chemistry and biology, and solid preparation in mathematics (algebra and precalculus or calculus). Evidence of laboratory experience from school courses or extracurricular activities is advantageous.

St. John’s considers a range of academic qualifications from different education systems; applicants are evaluated on overall academic record, teacher references, and a personal statement. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate English proficiency by accepted tests or recognised alternative credentials. Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and details of completed science coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme are prepared for a broad set of career paths in the life sciences. Common destinations include:

• Laboratory scientist roles in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies (research associate, development scientist)
• Further training at graduate level (MSc/PhD) or professional schools (medical, dental, veterinary)
• Clinical laboratory and diagnostic positions following appropriate certification
• Quality control, regulatory affairs and manufacturing in life-science industries
• Forensic science, environmental testing and public-health laboratories
• Science communication, technical sales, patent examination and policy roles with additional qualifications

The degree’s mix of experimental, analytical and computational skills gives graduates flexibility to move into research, applied laboratory work, or further academic study.

Why study at St. John's University

St. John’s offers a student-centred undergraduate experience with opportunities for close faculty mentorship and early involvement in research. The programme emphasises hands-on laboratory training in modern facilities, preparing students with practical skills valued by employers and graduate programmes.

Located within a major metropolitan area, St. John’s provides access to hospital systems, research institutes and biotechnology companies for internships and collaborations. The university’s career services and alumni network support placement and professional development, while study-abroad and interdisciplinary options allow students to broaden their academic and cultural perspectives.

Students benefit from small-class instruction in upper-level courses, opportunities to present research at symposia, and a curriculum designed to balance rigorous theoretical training with applied laboratory experience.