Belhaven University

What you'll study

The programme bridges core chemistry and physics with modern molecular and cellular biology, emphasising laboratory skills, quantitative reasoning and experimental design. You will take foundational courses in general chemistry, organic chemistry and physical chemistry alongside cell biology, genetics and molecular biology. Core scientific mathematics and physics—typically calculus, statistics and introductory physics—support quantitative approaches and biophysical principles.

Laboratory and practical work is central. Typical modules and experiences include:

• General and Organic Chemistry – reaction mechanisms, spectroscopy and laboratory techniques.
• Biochemistry – metabolism, protein structure and enzyme kinetics.
• Cell and Molecular Biology – gene expression, cellular processes and molecular pathways.
• Biophysics and Instrumentation – thermodynamics, membrane biophysics, microscopy and use of instruments such as spectrophotometers and electrophoresis equipment.
• Genetics and Genomics – Mendelian and molecular genetics, DNA technology and basic bioinformatics concepts.
• Research Methods and Laboratory Techniques – molecular cloning, PCR, gels, protein purification and data analysis.
• Quantitative and Computational Skills – statistics for biologists, data interpretation and introductory modelling.
• Senior Capstone / Research Project – an independent or mentored research project culminating in a written report and presentation.

The curriculum also includes general education and humanities courses, and the programme encourages exploration of ethical dimensions of science and the integration of a Christian worldview with scientific practice. Opportunities for internships, summer research and cross-disciplinary electives allow tailoring to specific interests such as biomedical science, environmental molecular work or biopharmaceutical applications.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a secondary-school diploma or equivalent with a strong academic record. Recommended pre-university preparation includes high-school chemistry and biology plus mathematics (algebra and precalculus or calculus) and, if available, physics. Successful applicants typically demonstrate competency in science and quantitative subjects through prior coursework and teacher references.

Belhaven considers the whole applicant, so applications should include a personal statement describing academic interests and any laboratory or research experience, and at least one reference from a teacher or mentor. Transfer applicants submit college transcripts showing readiness for upper-level science coursework. International applicants meet standard requirements for English proficiency and credential evaluation.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme are prepared for a range of career paths and further study. Typical directions include:

• Graduate study (MSc or PhD) in biochemistry, molecular biology, biophysics or related fields.
• Professional schools such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary or other health professions, supported by the programme’s strong science foundation.
• Entry-level roles in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, including laboratory technician, research assistant or quality control roles.
• Work in clinical and public-health laboratories, forensic science, environmental testing and regulatory agencies.
• Science education, technical writing, science communication and roles in nonprofit or faith-based organisations that connect science and community service.

Undergraduate research experience, internships and faculty recommendations from Belhaven can strengthen applications for both employment and postgraduate study.

Why study at Belhaven University

Belhaven offers a small-campus, liberal-arts setting where students receive personalised attention and mentoring from faculty with teaching and research experience. The programme emphasises hands-on laboratory training and undergraduate research in facilities suited to molecular and biochemical work, allowing students to build practical skills valued by employers and graduate programmes.

The university integrates a Christian worldview into the curriculum, encouraging ethical reflection on scientific questions and service-oriented careers. Students benefit from close faculty-student relationships, opportunities for internships in the Jackson region and beyond, and career services that help translate academic experience into postgraduate or professional opportunities.