CUNY(The City University of New York)

What you'll study

The programme is structured to provide a solid foundation in core biological principles while developing practical laboratory skills and data-analysis abilities. Typical components include a combination of CUNY general education requirements and major-specific courses delivered across lecture, laboratory and seminar formats.

• Core biological courses: introductory and advanced Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry and Microbiology.
• Laboratory training: multi-semester wet-lab courses covering aseptic technique, cell culture, protein and nucleic acid methods, microscopy, flow cytometry and quantitative assays.
• Quantitative and computational skills: biostatistics, data analysis, and introductory bioinformatics for sequence and functional data interpretation.
• Advanced and elective topics: immunology, developmental biology, neurobiology, cancer biology, systems biology and current topics seminars.
• Research and capstone: requirement or option to undertake an independent research project, senior thesis or extended laboratory practicum in a faculty laboratory or a partnered research centre.
• Professional experience: opportunities for internships and clinical/industry placements with New York City hospitals, biotechnology companies and public health organisations.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised high-school diploma or equivalent with strong preparation in science and mathematics. Typical recommended preparation includes:

• High-school coursework in biology and chemistry; physics is strongly recommended.
• A solid background in mathematics, including algebra and precalculus; coursework in calculus is advantageous.
• Evidence of laboratory experience where possible — school laboratory classes, science fairs, or summer research programmes are helpful.
• Personal statement and, where required by the specific CUNY college campus, letters of recommendation and an interview or portfolio for competitive placements.

Because CUNY is a public university system with multiple campuses, prospective students should consult the admissions pages of the particular CUNY college they intend to attend for campus-specific GPA expectations, test-optional policies and transfer-credit guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Cellular Biology have diverse career pathways. Many continue to graduate or professional training, while others enter the workforce directly in roles that make use of their laboratory and analytical skills.

• Research and laboratory roles: research technician, laboratory assistant, clinical laboratory technologist (additional certification may be required), and roles in core facilities.
• Biotechnology and industry: positions in biopharma, quality control, regulatory affairs, product development and technical sales.
• Healthcare and allied professions: preparation for medical, dental, physician assistant and nursing schools, or careers in public health and clinical research coordination.
• Further study and academia: progression to MSc and PhD programmes in molecular/cellular biology, biomedical sciences, or specialised graduate training in bioinformatics and systems biology.
• Science communication and policy: roles in science writing, education, outreach, and policy-making where a strong grounding in cell biology is valued.

Why study at CUNY(The City University of New York)

CUNY offers undergraduate students access to the research infrastructure and professional networks of a large urban public university system. Students benefit from:

• Research opportunities: chances to work with faculty on active research projects, including at centrally supported facilities and research centres in New York City.
• Clinical and industry connections: proximity to major hospitals, public-health agencies and biotech companies for internships and collaborative projects.
• Flexible pathways: multiple campuses and transfer options within the CUNY system, allowing students to tailor their experience and access specialised courses or facilities.
• Support services: academic advising, career services, and undergraduate seminars designed to prepare students for graduate study or the workforce.

Overall, CUNY’s Cellular Biology programme combines rigorous scientific training with practical experience and the real-world connections of a major metropolitan university, preparing graduates for a wide range of scientific careers and further study.