Chapman University

What you'll study

This programme blends core training in mathematics and computer science with molecular and cellular biology. Early modules build a foundation in calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, probability and statistics alongside introductory biology and chemistry. Students progress to programming and software-focused courses (commonly using Python and R), data structures, algorithms and database design applied to biological data.

• Core quantitative topics: multivariable calculus, linear algebra, mathematical modelling, statistics and probability, numerical methods.
• Computer science and data science: programming for scientific computing, data structures and algorithms, machine learning, databases and data visualisation.
• Biological sciences: cell and molecular biology, genetics, genomics, biochemistry and laboratory techniques.
• Applied computational modules: bioinformatics, sequence analysis, structural bioinformatics, systems biology, computational genomics and population modelling.
• Practical experience: laboratory courses, computing labs, supervised undergraduate research and a capstone or honours project that integrates computational methods with experimental or public datasets.

Students may also choose electives that deepen expertise in areas such as statistical genetics, imaging analysis, natural language processing for biomedical text, or software engineering for scientific applications. Interdisciplinary collaboration with departments such as computer science, biology and chemistry is typical.

Entry requirements

Admission is based on a strong overall academic record with emphasis on mathematical and scientific preparation. Typical incoming students will have completed advanced secondary-level mathematics (calculus where available) and at least one laboratory science (biology or chemistry).

• Academic credentials demonstrating strength in mathematics; further study in physics or chemistry is recommended.
• Evidence of quantitative aptitude and problem-solving ability; prior programming experience is advantageous but not always required.
• Competitive applicants often submit academic references and a personal statement explaining their interest in the interdisciplinary programme.
• Chapman considers the whole applicant file; standardised test policies and specific documentation requirements should be checked with the admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that require quantitative analysis of biological data and computational tool development. Common career paths include:

• Bioinformatician or computational biologist in biotechnology, pharmaceutical companies and academic research labs.
• Biostatistician or data scientist working on clinical trials, epidemiology, or healthcare analytics.
• Software engineer or developer focusing on scientific software, databases and bioinformatics pipelines.
• Research assistant or technician in genomics, systems biology or structural biology laboratories.
• Further study: many graduates progress to specialised master's or PhD programmes in computational biology, bioinformatics, biostatistics or related disciplines.

Why study at Chapman University

Chapman offers a personalised undergraduate experience with relatively small class sizes and accessible faculty, which benefits students in an interdisciplinary field that relies on close mentoring and collaborative research. The programme is housed within Chapman’s science and technology framework, enabling cross-departmental teaching and projects with faculty in mathematics, computer science and the biological sciences.

• Strong emphasis on undergraduate research and a capstone project that gives practical experience in computational analysis and experimental integration.
• Access to modern computing facilities and wet-lab courses that allow students to work with real biological data and experiments.
• Location in Orange County provides proximity to a regional biotechnology and healthcare sector, creating internship and industry partnership opportunities.
• Career services and faculty mentorship help guide students toward roles in industry or further academic study.