Chapman University

What you'll study

The curriculum emphasises the structure and function of the human body, molecular and cellular mechanisms of disease, and practical laboratory methods. Core topics typically include

• Human Physiology: systems physiology (cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, neurophysiology, endocrine, musculoskeletal) with laboratory exercises measuring physiological function.
• Pathology and Disease Mechanisms: fundamentals of cellular injury, inflammation, tissue repair, neoplasia and common disease processes.
• Cell and Molecular Biology: cell signalling, gene expression, molecular techniques and their application to understanding disease.
• Biochemistry and Pharmacology: biochemical pathways, drug action and metabolism relevant to therapeutic intervention.
• Immunology and Microbiology: host defence, immune pathology and infectious agents tied to clinical presentations.
• Laboratory Skills and Research Methods: microscopy and histology, molecular assays (PCR, gel electrophoresis), experimental design, data analysis and scientific communication.
• Capstone / Senior Research Project: an independent laboratory or literature-based project supervised by faculty, often with a written thesis and oral presentation.
• Electives and Clinical Exposure: opportunities to take electives in neuroscience, biomedical engineering, public health or to arrange clinical shadowing and internships in local hospitals and biotech companies.

The programme typically combines lectures, small-group seminars and hands-on laboratory classes, with an expectation that students will develop both practical competencies and critical appraisal skills for primary literature.

Entry requirements

Admission is competitive and evaluated on academic preparation, letters of recommendation, and the applicant’s written statement. Typical preparations include strong secondary-school coursework in biology and chemistry, with recommended mathematics (algebra and pre-calculus) and physics. For transfer applicants, successful completion of introductory college-level biology and chemistry with laboratory components is expected.

Applicants should be prepared to submit official transcripts and letters of recommendation. Standardised tests may be considered according to the university’s current admissions policy. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or approved alternatives.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a wide range of careers in the life sciences and healthcare sectors. Common paths include:

• Laboratory technician or research assistant roles in university, hospital or industry laboratories.
• Further professional training in medicine, physician assistant, dentistry, physical therapy or nursing—often following additional prerequisite courses and successful application to graduate/professional programmes.
• Graduate study (MS/PhD) in physiology, pathology, biomedical sciences or related research fields, leading to roles in research and academia.
• Positions in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and medical device industries in areas such as product development, clinical research coordination, regulatory affairs and quality control.
• Careers in science education, health policy, public health and scientific communications.

The degree provides technical laboratory skills and critical-thinking abilities that are transferable to many roles; many students also complete internships or research placements to strengthen employability and professional networks.

Why study at Chapman University

Chapman’s science programmes are delivered through its Schmid College of Science and Technology, offering a liberal-arts environment with an emphasis on undergraduate research and small-class engagement. Students benefit from accessible faculty mentors, modern teaching laboratories and opportunities to join active research groups.

The university’s location in Orange County provides proximity to a large biomedical and biotech sector, enabling internships, clinical collaborations and industry partnerships. Chapman also supports students with academic advising, career services and pre-health advising for those preparing for professional schools.