Chapman University

What you'll study

The programme blends foundational coursework in chemistry, physics and mathematics with in‑depth study of cellular and molecular processes. Early terms focus on general chemistry, calculus and introductory biology to build quantitative and experimental skills. Core modules typically include organic chemistry, physical chemistry/biophysical chemistry, cell biology, molecular biology, genetics and structural biology.

Laboratory training is a continuous feature: you will complete progressive lab courses that teach modern techniques such as protein purification, electrophoresis, spectroscopy, microscopy, and molecular cloning. Computational and quantitative elements — bioinformatics, data analysis and biostatistics — are integrated into the curriculum to prepare you for data‑driven research.

Students are encouraged to take elective options in related areas such as neurobiology, immunology, pharmacology, environmental science and chemical biology. The degree normally culminates in a capstone experience: an independent research project or honours thesis undertaken under faculty supervision, or a senior seminar synthesising laboratory and literature skills.

Entry requirements

• Secondary school completion or equivalent with strong preparation in the sciences and mathematics. Applicants are expected to have studied Chemistry and Biology; Mathematics and Physics are highly recommended.
• International applicants should present the equivalent preparation in science and math from their national systems.
• Chapman looks for evidence of quantitative ability, laboratory experience where available (school labs, summer programmes or research internships), and motivation for an experimental science career. Personal statements and teacher or supervisor recommendations that reference scientific aptitude and work ethic strengthen an application.
• Admission is holistic; standardised test submission policies may vary. Prospective students should consult the university’s admissions pages for current guidance on required documents and any test optional policies.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology follow diverse career paths. Many enter graduate or professional schools (MSc/PhD programmes, medical, dental or veterinary schools) to pursue research or clinical careers. Others move directly into industry roles in biotechnology, pharmaceutical development, diagnostics, quality control, regulatory affairs and laboratory support.

Typical roles include research assistant/associate, laboratory technician, clinical laboratory scientist (with appropriate certification), process development technologist, sales or product specialist for life‑science companies, and positions in science policy or communication. The quantitative and lab skills developed also transfer to fields such as data science, patent law (with additional qualifications) and environmental consultancy.

Chapman undergraduates often gain experience through internships with local biotech firms, hospital laboratories and research institutes in Orange County and the greater Los Angeles area, which helps with employability and graduate‑school applications.

Why study at Chapman University

• Schmid College of Science and Technology emphasises small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, allowing undergraduates to participate directly in research projects throughout their degree.
• Modern laboratory facilities in Chapman’s science buildings provide hands‑on access to instrumentation used in contemporary molecular biology and biophysics research.
• Strong connections with regional healthcare institutions and the Southern California biotech community create internship and collaboration opportunities that support professional development.
• The curriculum is designed to be flexible, enabling students to combine the major with minors or electives in allied areas (computational biology, neuroscience, business) and to pursue study‑abroad programmes or interdisciplinary projects.
• Career services and faculty advising help students plan for graduate school applications, licensure routes where relevant, and entry into industry positions following graduation.