North Carolina State University

What you'll study

This degree provides a mix of core biological science courses and specialised modules in microbiology and immunology, delivered through lecture and hands‑on laboratory experiences. Early coursework builds a foundation in general biology, chemistry, cell biology and quantitative skills; later study concentrates on microbial physiology, bacteriology, virology, molecular microbiology, host‑pathogen interactions and immune system function.

• Core subjects: general biology, genetics, cell and molecular biology, biochemistry and statistics for life sciences
• Microbiology modules: microbial diversity and ecology, bacterial physiology, virology and fungal biology
• Immunology modules: innate and adaptive immunity, immunogenetics, immunopathology and vaccine biology
• Laboratory and practical courses: microbiological techniques, aseptic technique, molecular methods (PCR, cloning, sequencing), flow cytometry and immunoassays
• Research and experiential learning: undergraduate research project or capstone, internships with industry or public health laboratories, and opportunities for fieldwork or community‑based projects
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: bioinformatics, microbial biotechnology, environmental microbiology, and courses in public health, ethics and regulatory science

Entry requirements

Applicants should present a strong secondary school record with particular strengths in biology, chemistry and mathematics. Typical preparation includes one or more years of high‑level biology and chemistry courses; coursework in physics and calculus is advantageous. Admission decisions consider overall academic performance, letters of recommendation, and any relevant laboratory or extracurricular experience.

• Domestic applicants: secondary school diploma with competitive grades in science and mathematics; advanced placement or dual‑enrolment credits in biology, chemistry or calculus may be accepted.
• International applicants: equivalent secondary qualifications plus evidence of English proficiency where required.
• Transfer students: previous college coursework in biology, chemistry and mathematics is evaluated for transfer credit; research or laboratory experience strengthens applications.

Career prospects

Graduates have broad career options across the life sciences. Many proceed to graduate or professional programmes (master’s, PhD, medical, veterinary, or other health professional degrees). Others enter the workforce directly in technical, regulatory or commercial roles.

• Laboratory and research positions: research technician, laboratory analyst, quality control/assurance roles in academic, government or industrial labs
• Healthcare and diagnostics: clinical laboratory science (often requiring certification), public health laboratory work and epidemiology support roles
• Biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry: process development, product support, manufacturing, regulatory affairs and clinical trials coordination
• Environmental and food safety sectors: microbial monitoring, contamination control and food microbiology
• Science communication, policy and education: outreach, regulatory policy support, teaching and technical sales/field support

Why study at North Carolina State University

North Carolina State University offers an applied, research‑intensive environment with extensive laboratory training and opportunities to work alongside faculty on active research projects. The university’s proximity to Research Triangle Park and a strong regional biotechnology sector creates internship and employment connections with industry and public health agencies.

• Hands‑on training in modern microbiology and immunology techniques through dedicated undergraduate laboratory courses and facilities
• Opportunities for mentored undergraduate research, senior capstone projects and collaboration with faculty across biological sciences, engineering and public health
• Access to internships, co‑op placements and careers support that link students with biotechnology, pharmaceutical and public health employers in the region
• Interdisciplinary pathways and elective choices that allow students to tailor the degree toward research, clinical, environmental or industry careers