Belhaven University

What you'll study

The programme combines core biology, chemistry and mathematics with specialised courses in cell and molecular biology. You will study cell structure and function, genetics, biochemistry, microbiology and physiology while developing practical laboratory skills in microscopy, tissue culture, molecular techniques (PCR, gel electrophoresis), and experimental design.

Typical components include:

• Core modules: Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Physiology.
• Laboratory and methods courses: Cell and Tissue Culture Techniques, Molecular Methods in Biology, Microscopy and Imaging, Laboratory Safety and Data Analysis.
• Supporting science: General and Organic Chemistry, Calculus or Statistics, and Bioinformatics or Computational Biology options.
• Liberal arts and electives: Communication, ethics in science, and elective topics such as immunology, developmental biology, neurobiology or environmental biology.
• Capstone and experiential learning: A senior capstone project or research thesis under faculty supervision, plus opportunities for internships or practicum placements with local laboratories, hospitals or biotechnology firms.

Entry requirements

Belhaven seeks applicants with a strong foundation in the sciences and demonstrated academic readiness. Typical entry criteria include completion of secondary education with good grades, including science subjects (biology and chemistry strongly recommended) and mathematics. International qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate or equivalent national credentials are accepted.

Successful applicants usually demonstrate:

• Background in biology and chemistry at secondary level (or equivalent).
• A readiness for university‑level mathematics (algebra/trigonometry or introductory calculus) and laboratory work.
• Evidence of academic commitment through transcripts, references and a personal statement outlining interest in cellular biology.
• International applicants may be required to demonstrate proficiency in English through recognised language tests if their prior education was not in English.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of career paths in the life sciences. Many proceed to graduate or professional programmes (master’s, doctoral, medical, physician associate or other health professions), while others enter the workforce directly.

• Research assistant or technician roles in academic, government or commercial laboratories.
• Positions in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies (quality control, assay development, production support).
• Clinical laboratory work and roles supporting healthcare services (with appropriate certification or further training).
• Science education and outreach, including secondary school teaching (with additional teacher certification where required).
• Further study in specialised fields such as molecular genetics, immunology, biomedical sciences or bioinformatics.

Why study at Belhaven University

Belhaven offers a Christian liberal arts environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, which supports personalised learning and early involvement in research. The university emphasises hands‑on laboratory training and integrates scientific study with communication and ethical reflection.

Students benefit from access to teaching laboratories, opportunities for undergraduate research projects, local internship connections, and a curriculum designed to prepare graduates for both employment and further study in the biological sciences.