Dartmouth University

What you'll study

The programme focuses on the molecular and cellular foundations of life. Core topics include cell structure and signalling, molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and cellular physiology. Students also study laboratory techniques such as microscopy, tissue culture, molecular cloning, PCR and electrophoresis, and gain competence in quantitative approaches including statistics and introductory bioinformatics.

The curriculum typically combines required core courses with elective modules and a strong research component. Typical modules and subjects you can expect are:

• Introductory Biology and Chemistry – foundational courses in cellular biology and general chemistry to build core knowledge.
• Cell Biology – membrane dynamics, organelle function, intracellular transport and signalling pathways.
• Molecular Genetics – gene expression, regulation, and molecular mechanisms of inheritance.
• Biochemistry – structure and function of proteins, enzymes and metabolic pathways.
• Laboratory Methods – hands‑on practicals in modern molecular and cell biology techniques.
• Quantitative and Computational Skills – biostatistics, data analysis and introductory bioinformatics for analysing genomic and imaging data.
• Advanced Electives – options such as developmental biology, neurobiology, immunology, cancer biology and synthetic biology.
• Research and Capstone – faculty‑mentored laboratory research leading to a senior thesis or independent project, seminars and journal clubs.

Entry requirements

Admission is competitive and assesses academic preparation, extracurricular engagement and fit with the college's liberal‑arts environment. Typical academic preparation includes a strong record in biology and chemistry at high‑school level, and comfort with mathematics. Applicants are expected to submit a full application with school transcripts, teacher recommendations and a personal statement. International applicants should present equivalent secondary qualifications and evidence of English proficiency where required.

Recommended background and preparation:

• High‑school coursework in biology and chemistry; physics and mathematics strongly recommended.
• Laboratory experience through coursework, internships or extracurricular programmes is advantageous.
• Evidence of independent scientific interest (research projects, science competitions, summer programmes or volunteering in relevant settings).
• Competitive applicants typically demonstrate strong analytical skills, critical thinking and written communication.

Career prospects

Graduates with a cellular biology degree from Dartmouth move into a wide range of careers. Common pathways include research roles in academic or industry laboratories, further study (PhD, MD, or professional master's), and positions in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies. Other destinations include clinical laboratory science, scientific consulting, regulatory affairs, patent examination and science policy or communication. The programme’s emphasis on laboratory skills and independent research also prepares graduates for technical roles such as research technician or lab manager.

Many students use the degree as preparation for postgraduate professional training in medicine, dentistry or veterinary medicine, or for graduate study in molecular and cellular life sciences, bioengineering and related fields.

Why study at Dartmouth University

Dartmouth’s undergraduate environment emphasises close faculty‑student interaction and opportunities for early, sustained research experience. Small class sizes and seminar‑based learning allow personalised mentoring, and students benefit from access to modern laboratory facilities and interdisciplinary collaborations across the college and associated clinical partners in the region. The curriculum balances rigorous scientific training with the liberal‑arts breadth that helps develop communication, ethical reasoning and quantitative skills valued by employers and graduate programmes.

The programme supports students in gaining hands‑on experience through summer research, faculty projects and independent theses, and it provides advising for careers and graduate school applications so students can translate laboratory experience into a range of professional outcomes.