Eastern Michigan University

What you'll study

The curriculum builds a strong foundation in chemistry, physics and mathematics before moving into core life‑science subjects. Early coursework typically includes general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics for the life sciences, calculus and introductory biology. Core molecular and cellular topics follow, such as cell biology, genetics, molecular biology, microbiology and introductory and advanced biochemistry.

Program‑specific modules emphasise quantitative and experimental skills and commonly include physical chemistry/biophysics, protein structure and function, enzymology, metabolic regulation, molecular genetics, and genomics/bioinformatics. Laboratory courses run in parallel with lectures and teach modern techniques such as spectrophotometry, chromatography, electrophoresis, PCR and microscopy, as well as data analysis and laboratory safety.

Students are required to complete a capstone experience that may be a senior research project, an internship in an industrial or clinical laboratory, or a directed study under faculty supervision. Elective options allow specialisation in areas such as structural biology, proteomics, computational biology, or biotechnology applications.

Typical components

• Foundations: General and Organic Chemistry, Physics, Calculus
• Core Life Sciences: Cell Biology, Genetics, Microbiology, Molecular Biology
• Discipline Core: Biochemistry I & II, Biophysics/Physical Chemistry for life sciences
• Laboratory Sequence: hands‑on courses in biochemistry and molecular biology techniques
• Capstone: undergraduate research project, internship or senior seminar
• Electives: bioinformatics, structural biology, advanced lab methods, biotechnology

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent and demonstrate strong preparation in science and mathematics. Successful candidates typically have completed high school courses in biology, chemistry and algebra or precalculus; physics and calculus are advantageous. Admissions decisions consider overall academic record, grades in science and maths, and a personal statement; some applicants also submit letters of recommendation.

Transfer students are evaluated on college coursework completed at the time of application. Students transferring science credits should be prepared to meet laboratory and major‑specific prerequisites; faculty advisors help plan remaining requirements. Professional school applicants (medicine, dentistry, veterinary) should plan courses to meet those programmes' prerequisites in consultation with advisors.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of immediate career paths and further study. Common routes include entry‑level roles as research technicians, laboratory technologists in clinical or industrial settings, quality control/assurance technicians in biotech or pharmaceutical companies, and positions in environmental or forensic laboratories.

The programme also prepares students for graduate study (MSc/PhD) in molecular biology, biochemistry, biophysics or related fields, and for professional schools such as medicine, dentistry and pharmacy. With further training or experience, alumni move into roles in research and development, regulatory affairs, product development, scientific sales, technical support, and patent or science policy (often requiring additional qualifications).

Why study at Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University provides a programme emphasising hands‑on learning, close faculty mentoring and accessible research opportunities. Smaller class sizes in upper‑division courses and an active department of biological sciences make it easier for undergraduates to join faculty laboratories and complete meaningful independent projects.

The university's laboratories and teaching facilities support training on contemporary instrumentation and techniques, and the programme encourages internships and partnerships with regional hospitals, research institutes and companies. Students benefit from academic advising geared to career and professional‑school planning, student organisations and seminars that connect them to the broader scientific community in Michigan and beyond.