Ohio University

What you'll study

This programme provides a rigorous foundation in molecular and cellular biology, physical chemistry, and quantitative methods. Core topics typically include biomolecular structure and function, enzymology, metabolic pathways, molecular genetics, cell biology, and biophysical approaches to macromolecules. Students learn laboratory techniques such as protein purification, spectroscopy, electrophoresis, microscopy, PCR and sequencing, as well as data analysis and experimental design.

The degree is organised with a mix of lecture courses, laboratory courses and seminars. Many students take advanced electives in areas such as structural biology, proteomics, molecular modelling, membrane biophysics, neurobiology, and bioinformatics. The curriculum usually culminates with an independent research project, capstone course or honours thesis supervised by faculty in the biology, chemistry or biophysics research groups.

• Introductory and organic chemistry with laboratory
• Introductory and advanced molecular/cellular biology with laboratory
• Biochemistry and enzymology
• Biophysical methods and quantitative analysis
• Genetics, genomics and molecular genetics techniques
• Electives in bioinformatics, structural biology, neuroscience or pharmacology
• Independent research project or senior capstone

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong secondary school record with solid preparation in the sciences and mathematics. Typical preparation includes high‑level courses in chemistry and biology plus calculus or equivalent. For UK applicants, A‑levels in chemistry and biology (or chemistry and maths/physics) are appropriate; for IB applicants, higher level science courses are recommended. International applicants should present equivalent qualifications and proof of English proficiency where required.

For domestic applicants from the US, a competitive high school GPA and successful completion of college preparatory science and maths courses are expected. Transfer students should have completed introductory college coursework in biology and chemistry with laboratory components. Admissions also consider the overall academic profile, recommendation letters and personal statement.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of laboratory and analytical roles in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, clinical and diagnostic laboratories, environmental testing, and agricultural science. The degree provides strong preparation for further study — including MSc/PhD programmes in molecular biology, biochemistry, biophysics or related fields — and for professional schools such as medicine, dentistry and pharmacy.

Typical entry-level job titles include research technician, laboratory technologist, quality control analyst and biomanufacturing associate. With additional experience or postgraduate training, alumni progress to roles in research science, scientific project management, regulatory affairs, clinical research coordination, and science communication. Some graduates also combine their scientific background with legal, business or education qualifications for careers in patent law, biotech entrepreneurship or teaching.

Why study at Ohio University

Ohio University offers this interdisciplinary molecular programme within a research-active campus that emphasises undergraduate involvement in laboratory research and faculty mentorship. Students benefit from hands-on laboratory courses, opportunities to join faculty research groups and interdisciplinary centres such as university biotechnology initiatives. Small‑class settings for advanced labs and seminars help build technical competence and critical thinking.

The Athens campus provides accessible research facilities, core instrumentation and internship pathways with local and regional biotech employers and healthcare partners. Career services, advising and pre‑professional support help students plan for graduate study or entry into the workforce, while active student societies and departmental activities create collaborative learning and networking opportunities.