Fairleigh Dickinson University

What you'll study

The Biology curriculum builds a broad scientific foundation and develops practical laboratory skills. Core topics include cell and molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, ecology and evolution, and organismal physiology. Students take laboratory courses that teach microscopy, molecular techniques, analytical methods, and quantitative data analysis.

Programme structure typically blends general education requirements with major-specific courses and electives. Upper-level options commonly cover topics such as molecular genetics, immunology, developmental biology, neurobiology, bioinformatics, environmental biology and conservation. Many students complete a senior seminar, capstone project or independent research project under faculty supervision.

Hands-on learning is emphasised: students participate in laboratory classes, fieldwork, internships and research with faculty. Opportunities to develop professional skills include coursework in experimental design and statistics, scientific communication, and ethics in biological research.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong secondary-school background with science and mathematics courses. Typical preparation includes biology and chemistry; prior coursework in mathematics (algebra and statistics) is recommended. Fairleigh Dickinson reviews academic records holistically, considering the rigour of coursework and preparation for collegiate study.

International applicants should present qualifications equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma and demonstrate English-language proficiency through recognised tests or prior study in English, where required. Transfer students from community colleges or other universities may receive credit for college-level science and general-education courses; specific credit is evaluated on submission of transcripts and course descriptions.

Career prospects

A Biology degree from Fairleigh Dickinson prepares graduates for a variety of career paths. Common directions include:

• Pre-health professions: preparation for medical school, physician assistant programmes, dentistry, pharmacy or other clinical training through pre-health advising and prerequisite coursework.
• Research and laboratory careers: positions as laboratory technicians, research assistants, or clinical research coordinators in academic, hospital or industrial settings.
• Biotechnology and industry: roles in biotech firms, pharmaceutical companies and environmental testing laboratories.
• Environmental and conservation roles: work in environmental consulting, wildlife management and natural resource agencies.
• Education and communication: secondary-school teaching (with appropriate certification), science outreach and science writing.
• Graduate study: many graduates move on to master’s or doctoral programmes in biology, biomedical sciences, public health, or related fields.

Why study at Fairleigh Dickinson University

Fairleigh Dickinson offers a personalised undergraduate experience with small class sizes and faculty who engage undergraduates in research and mentorship. The university’s campuses provide laboratory facilities and opportunities for internships and clinical affiliations in the New Jersey–New York region, giving students access to hospitals, research institutes and industry partners.

Students benefit from dedicated pre-health advising, career services and support for study abroad and experiential learning. The university’s emphasis on applied learning helps prepare graduates for professional licensure, employment or further academic study while offering a diverse, international student community and resources to support academic success.