Florida International University

What you'll study

This programme builds a broad foundation in the life sciences and then moves into focused biomedical topics, combining lecture coursework, hands‑on laboratory training and an independent capstone or research project. The degree is structured around core biology modules, a chemistry and maths/physics sequence, and specialised biomedical courses.

• Core biological sciences: cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, ecology and evolution and organismal biology.
• Chemistry and quantitative skills: general chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, and courses in statistics or calculus as required for quantitative literacy.
• Biomedical specialisms: human physiology, anatomy, microbiology, immunology, pharmacology, pathophysiology and topics in disease mechanisms.
• Laboratory and research training: multi‑term laboratory courses emphasizing experimental design, molecular techniques (PCR, electrophoresis, microscopy), tissue culture and data analysis, plus opportunities for a supervised undergraduate research project or thesis.
• Professional preparation: courses and modules that cover medical ethics, clinical laboratory methods, public health principles and pre‑health advising for students applying to professional schools.
• Electives and experiential learning: elective options may include neuroscience, bioinformatics, virology, developmental biology and environmental health; internships, clinical observation and community health placements are encouraged to gain practical exposure.

Typical degree structure

The programme is completed over the normal full‑time undergraduate period and balances general education requirements with major‑specific coursework. Students typically take introductory science and maths in the early years, build into advanced and laboratory‑based courses in the middle years, and undertake capstone or research projects and electives in the final year. Students may also pursue minors or certificates in related areas such as public health, chemistry or computational biology.

Entry requirements

Admission is to Florida International University as an undergraduate; entry into the biological/biomedical sciences major normally requires a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of a set of college preparatory courses. Competitive applicants typically present:

• Strong secondary‑school academic performance with emphasis on biology, chemistry and mathematics.
• Prerequisite coursework in high‑school biology and chemistry; two years of laboratory science and math through algebra or higher are recommended.
• Standardised tests are handled according to the university's current policy; check FIU for whether SAT/ACT submission is optional or required.
• International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or approved institutional measures.
• For transfer applicants, successful completion of college‑level science and general education courses with a competitive college GPA is expected; many transfers enter with first‑ and second‑year prerequisites already completed.

Meeting minimum admission requirements does not guarantee entry to specific tracks; some specialised concentrations or honours options may have additional selection criteria such as a higher GPA or faculty approval for research placements.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with the scientific knowledge and laboratory skills needed for a range of careers in health, research and industry, or to proceed to further education. Common pathways include:

• Professional clinical careers: medical school, physician assistant programmes, dentistry, pharmacy and clinical laboratory science roles—students typically complete prerequisite courses and gain clinical exposure during the degree.
• Research and graduate study: entry to MSc and PhD programmes in biomedical sciences, molecular biology, neuroscience and related fields, often following a period of undergraduate research experience.
• Industry and biotech: laboratory technician, research associate, quality control/assurance roles, regulatory affairs and product development positions in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies.
• Public health and allied careers: positions in public health agencies, epidemiology support roles, health education and environmental health, particularly when combined with appropriate electives or a public health minor.
• Science communication, teaching and policy: secondary science teaching (with additional certification), scientific outreach and roles supporting health policy and administration.

FIU graduates benefit from career services, internship links with local hospitals and research institutes, and the opportunity to build networks in Miami's biotechnology and healthcare sectors.

Why study at Florida International University

Florida International University offers a large, research‑active environment with access to well‑equipped laboratories and a diverse faculty engaged in biomedical research. The university's Miami location provides proximity to major hospitals, research centres and a growing biotech industry, creating options for internships and clinical experience. Undergraduates have opportunities to join faculty research labs, participate in community health initiatives and access dedicated pre‑health advising and career services. FIU's multicultural student body and partnerships across the region also support learning in a globally connected clinical and research setting.