Marymount University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary degree emphasises the molecular and physical principles that underpin biological systems. Core coursework covers general and organic chemistry, physical chemistry concepts relevant to biological molecules, molecular and cell biology, genetics and biochemistry. Students take a sequence of laboratory courses that develop practical skills in wet-lab techniques, spectroscopic and separation methods, and quantitative data analysis.

• Foundational courses: General Chemistry I & II, Introductory Biology, Calculus and statistics for life sciences.
• Core molecular courses: Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry I & II, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Genetics.
• Biophysics and quantitative methods: Physical Chemistry for the Life Sciences or Biophysics, Biostatistics, instrumentation and data analysis.
• Laboratory and research experience: Progressive laboratory courses, an independent research project or senior capstone under faculty supervision, and opportunities to use techniques such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, chromatography, spectroscopy and microscopy.
• Electives and special topics: Bioinformatics, structural biology, enzymology, neurobiology, environmental molecular biology or advanced topics that reflect faculty expertise.

The programme emphasises active learning: small classes, frequent laboratory time, and mentored undergraduate research that can prepare students for graduate study or employment. Students may also undertake internships with local biotechnology companies, government labs or hospital research units.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent with a strong record in science and mathematics. Recommended preparation includes high-school chemistry and biology, algebra and preferably precalculus or calculus. Prior laboratory experience and coursework in physics are advantageous.

• Academic preparation: Coursework in chemistry and biology; mathematics through algebra and precalculus or calculus is recommended.
• Skills and interests: Demonstrated interest in laboratory work, problem-solving and quantitative reasoning will strengthen an application.
• Additional considerations: Marymount considers the whole application; strong letters of recommendation, a personal statement describing scientific interests, and any relevant extracurricular or research experience are helpful. Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate or transfer credit may be considered for placement or credit as per university policy.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology have versatile career options across industry, healthcare, government and academia. Many students move on to:

• Research technician roles in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies or academic laboratories
• Further study at the graduate level (MSc, PhD) in molecular biology, biochemistry, biophysics or related fields
• Professional programmes such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy or physician assistant studies
• Careers in clinical laboratories, forensic science, quality control, regulatory affairs and laboratory management
• Scientific roles in bioinformatics, biomanufacturing, environmental science, and science communication or policy

The programme’s laboratory training and research experience are especially valuable for students aiming to transition directly into laboratory positions or to build a strong application for competitive graduate and professional programmes.

Why study at Marymount University

Marymount offers a student-centred learning environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, which is important for laboratory-based training and undergraduate research. The university provides access to modern teaching laboratories and instrumentation suited to molecular and biophysical experiments, and faculty-led research opportunities allow undergraduates to gain hands-on experience early in their programme.

• Hands-on research: Opportunities for mentored independent projects and collaborative research with faculty.
• Location advantages: Proximity to Washington, D.C., and a regional network of hospitals, federal laboratories and biotech employers that support internships and professional connections.
• Supportive services: Academic advising, career services, and resources for preparing for graduate and professional school applications.

Taken together, the curriculum, research emphasis and personalised support make Marymount a strong choice for students seeking an applied, interdisciplinary molecular biology education that prepares them for diverse scientific careers or advanced study.