Lewis University

What you'll study

This programme builds a strong foundation in chemistry and physics before moving into molecular and cellular biology. Early coursework typically covers general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics and calculus, with parallel laboratory classes to develop core experimental skills. Progressing into the major, students study biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, genetics and biophysics, supported by courses in analytical techniques, instrumentation and statistics for the life sciences.

Practical training is a major component: laboratory courses emphasise aseptic technique, spectrophotometry, chromatography, electrophoresis, PCR, gel imaging and basic protein and nucleic acid methods. Many students undertake a senior capstone or independent research project under faculty supervision, and electives allow specialisation in areas such as structural biology, molecular modelling, bioinformatics, or biochemical pharmacology. Internship options with local biomedical, pharmaceutical or clinical laboratories give applied experience and professional exposure.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school diploma with a strong record in science and mathematics. Recommended pre‑university subjects include high‑level biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics (calculus or advanced algebra). Admissions typically consider overall academic performance, the strength of science coursework and letters of recommendation; a personal statement outlining scientific interests and career aims is also useful.

Transfer applicants are evaluated on college coursework and GPA; prior credits in chemistry, biology or maths may be accepted toward degree requirements. Prospective students are encouraged to discuss placement and preparatory needs with the department, particularly if they lack laboratory experience.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for careers in research laboratories, biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, clinical and forensic laboratories, environmental testing, and quality control. Many proceed to graduate study (MSc/PhD) in molecular biology, biochemistry or biophysics, or professional programmes such as medicine, dentistry, physician associate studies and other health professions. Other career options include regulatory affairs, scientific writing and communication, patent examination and laboratory management.

Alumni often find roles as research assistants, laboratory technicians, quality‑assurance analysts, or pursue doctoral and medical training. The combination of quantitative, laboratory and communication skills taught in the programme is also attractive to employers in data science and biotechnology entrepreneurship.

Why study at Lewis University

Lewis University offers a taught environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentoring, making it easier for undergraduates to secure research placements and one‑to‑one supervision for capstone projects. The department emphasises hands‑on learning in dedicated teaching laboratories and access to modern instrumentation for molecular and biochemical analysis.

Located within reach of a large regional biomedical and industrial community, the university supports internship and collaborative opportunities with hospitals, research centres and biotech firms. Students benefit from structured pre‑health advising, career services and opportunities for interdisciplinary study that link chemistry, physics and biology to real‑world scientific problems.