Harvey Mudd College

What you'll study

The biology programme at Harvey Mudd emphasises an interdisciplinary, quantitative approach to the life sciences. Core coursework covers molecular and cellular biology, genetics, biochemistry and organismal physiology, supported by a strong background in mathematics, chemistry and physics. Typical modules include molecular genetics, cell biology, biochemistry, developmental biology, ecology and evolution, microbiology, and bioinformatics/computational biology.

Laboratory and field experience is central: students take progressive lab courses that teach experimental design, microscopy, molecular techniques, and data analysis. Independent research is a hallmark of the curriculum—students undertake mentored laboratory or field projects, often culminating in a senior thesis or capstone presentation. Through the Claremont Colleges consortium, students can complement their programme with specialised courses at partner colleges, access to shared research facilities and interdisciplinary electives in areas such as neuroscience, environmental science and engineering approaches to biology.

Graduates also complete coursework in scientific communication, ethics and the liberal arts, ensuring the ability to present research, evaluate literature and consider broader societal impacts of scientific work.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong academic preparation in science and mathematics. Typical preparation includes high-school or secondary-level courses in biology and chemistry, and mathematics through calculus. Background in physics and computer science is beneficial but not always required.

Selection is based on academic transcripts, teacher or supervisor recommendations, a personal statement that outlines motivation for studying biology and research interests, and examples of prior laboratory or extracurricular scientific engagement where available. Successful applicants show strong quantitative skills, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to undertake independent research. International students should demonstrate proficiency in English through recognised testing or equivalent academic experience.

Career prospects

Graduates of Harvey Mudd's biology programme move into a wide range of careers. Many continue to graduate or professional school, pursuing PhDs in biological sciences, MD/DO programmes, or master's degrees in fields such as bioengineering, public health and computational biology. Others enter the workforce directly in roles including research technician, laboratory scientist, data analyst in biotech or pharmaceutical companies, environmental consultant, science policy analyst, or roles in science education and outreach.

The combination of quantitative training and laboratory experience also prepares alumni for emerging interdisciplinary careers in computational biology, systems biology and biotechnology startups. The college's strong career services and alumni network, plus access to internships through the Claremont consortium and industry connections in the region, support transitions into research, industry and entrepreneurship.

Why study at Harvey Mudd College

Harvey Mudd offers a distinctive liberal-arts-and-sciences environment with a particular emphasis on rigorous STEM education balanced by humanities and social-science study. The biology programme's strengths include close faculty mentorship, extensive undergraduate research opportunities and a curriculum designed to integrate quantitative methods with biological thinking.

Being part of the Claremont Colleges gives biology students access to a broader range of specialised courses, shared lab facilities and interdisciplinary collaborations. Small class sizes encourage interaction with faculty and peers, while institutional support for undergraduate research enables students to contribute to publishable work and present at conferences. For students seeking a strong, research-focused undergraduate biology education with an emphasis on quantitative and interdisciplinary skills, Harvey Mudd provides an environment tailored to those goals.