Ferris State University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary bachelor’s degree emphasises the chemical and physical principles underlying biological systems and develops practical molecular laboratory skills. Core coursework typically covers general and organic chemistry, physical chemistry principles applied to biological molecules, cell and molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and introductory biophysics. Students also study related foundational subjects such as calculus, physics, and statistics to support quantitative analysis of experimental data.

• Foundations: General biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, calculus and physics.
• Core molecular sciences: Cell biology, molecular genetics, biochemistry, structural biology and macromolecular interactions.
• Biophysics and analytical methods: Thermodynamics and kinetics of biomolecules, spectroscopy, microscopy, and computational or modelling approaches to biological systems.
• Laboratory skills: Hands-on laboratory courses in molecular cloning, protein expression and purification, enzymology, nucleic acid techniques (PCR, sequencing principles), and instrumentation operation and data analysis.
• Research and capstone: A supervised undergraduate research project or senior capstone experience that develops experimental design, troubleshooting and scientific communication.
• Electives and specialisation: Options commonly include advanced topics such as cell signalling, neurobiology, immunology, bioinformatics, structural methods, or biotechnology-related courses.

Teaching and assessment

Instruction mixes lectures, small-group seminars and extensive laboratory sessions. Assessment methods include lab reports, written exams, oral presentations and a research project or capstone report. Emphasis is placed on practical competency, data interpretation and scientific writing.

Entry requirements

Typical entrants hold a high-school diploma or equivalent with strong preparation in science and mathematics. Recommended academic background includes biology, chemistry (including at least one year of chemistry with practical lab experience), mathematics (preferably calculus or pre-calculus) and physics. Admissions will consider overall academic performance, relevant coursework, and any laboratory or research experience. Transfer applicants are evaluated on college coursework and GPA in science and mathematics courses. Standardised tests may be optional depending on institutional policy; consult the university for current guidance on test submission.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of laboratory and technical careers as well as further study. Common career paths include:

• Research technician or laboratory scientist in academic, government or industrial research labs.
• Biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry roles such as quality control, assay development and process support.
• Clinical laboratory positions (additional certification or specific clinical training may be required for some roles).
• Regulatory affairs, technical sales or product support for life-science companies.
• Further education: entry to graduate programmes (MSc/PhD) in molecular biology, biochemistry or biophysics, or professional programmes such as medicine, dentistry or pharmacy.
• Forensic science, environmental testing, and science education at secondary or community levels (often requiring additional certification).

Hands-on laboratory experience and undergraduate research projects developed during the degree strengthen employability and graduate-school applications.

Why study at Ferris State University

Ferris State offers a practical, career-oriented approach with strong emphasis on laboratory competency and applied skills. Students benefit from small class sizes and accessible faculty who often supervise undergraduate research projects. The university maintains modern teaching laboratories and instrumentation suited to molecular and biochemical training. There are established links with regional healthcare facilities, industrial partners and research groups, creating opportunities for internships, co‑operative experiences and employment connections.

Support services such as academic advising, career services and writing centres help students plan their coursework and professional pathways, whether aiming directly for the workforce or preparing for graduate and professional study.