Fairleigh Dickinson University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary degree provides balanced coverage of the biological and physical sciences, emphasising laboratory skills, quantitative reasoning and experimental design. Students take foundational courses across biology, chemistry and physics, together with supporting maths and statistics, and choose elective modules to tailor the programme to their interests.

• Core modules: general biology, general chemistry, classical and modern physics, calculus and introductory statistics.
• Laboratory work: multi-semester lab sequences in biology, chemistry and physics that develop practical techniques, data analysis and safe laboratory practice.
• Advanced options: molecular biology, biochemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, thermodynamics, optics, materials science and environmental science electives.
• Research and capstone: opportunities for faculty-supervised independent research or a senior capstone project integrating experimental work and written communication.
• Skills and experience: training in scientific writing, data visualisation, computational tools used in scientific research and team-based problem solving.

The programme structure typically includes a set of general education requirements alongside major-specific coursework, and students can often customise their pathway through elective choices, minors or concentration options where available. Internships and work placements are encouraged to connect classroom learning with applied experience.

Entry requirements

Admission is based on successful completion of secondary education or an equivalent qualification. Applicants are expected to demonstrate preparation in mathematics and at least one laboratory science (biology, chemistry or physics).

• Strong performance in high-school level maths and science subjects is recommended.
• Standardised test submission may be optional depending on admissions policy; applicants should consult the university for current testing guidance.
• International applicants must present an equivalent secondary credential and evidence of English language proficiency if required.
• Successful applicants should show readiness for college-level quantitative and laboratory coursework; portfolios, references or statements of interest can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with a flexible scientific foundation that supports a range of career paths in industry, government, education and research. Many proceed directly into technical positions, while others pursue further study or professional programmes.

• Laboratory technician, research assistant or quality-control analyst in biotechnology, pharmaceutical and environmental laboratories.
• Roles in environmental consulting, public health, regulatory compliance and laboratory services.
• Progression to graduate degrees (MSc, PhD) or professional programmes in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and allied health.
• Careers in science education, technical sales, scientific communication and data analysis.

Career services at the university support internships, networking and application preparation for both employment and postgraduate study.

Why study at Fairleigh Dickinson University

Fairleigh Dickinson offers small class sizes with accessible faculty, enabling close mentorship and hands-on laboratory experience. The university’s curriculum emphasises practical skills and applied learning, and students can undertake supervised research projects alongside faculty in well-equipped laboratories.

• Practical training: laboratory courses and project work designed to develop techniques and problem-solving skills valued by employers and graduate programmes.
• Faculty mentorship: opportunities to work with faculty on research and to receive academic and career guidance.
• Internships and industry links: support finding internships and placements that provide real-world experience in the region and beyond.
• Global perspective: access to the university’s international campus options and study-abroad opportunities to broaden academic and cultural experience.
• Career support: dedicated services for resume development, interview preparation and graduate school advising.

Together, these elements make the programme suitable for students seeking a rigorous, adaptable scientific education that prepares them for multiple postgraduate and professional pathways.