Rochester Institute of Technology

What you'll study

The programme provides a foundation in chemistry, physics and quantitative analysis, integrated with in‑depth study of molecular and cellular biology. Core subjects typically include general and organic chemistry, physical chemistry, cell biology, genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry and biophysics. Students also take supporting courses in calculus, statistics, and physics to develop the quantitative skills required for modern molecular science.

• Foundational science: general chemistry with lab, organic chemistry, physics and mathematics.
• Molecular and cellular courses: cell biology, genetics, molecular biology techniques, and laboratory methods in molecular biology.
• Biochemistry and biophysics: enzymology, metabolic pathways, structural biology, spectroscopy and biophysical methods.
• Advanced and elective topics: structural biology, bioinformatics, proteomics, advanced molecular techniques, and interdisciplinary electives drawn from chemistry, biomedical engineering or computer science.
• Capstone and research: an independent research project or senior capstone, often conducted in faculty laboratories or in collaboration with industry, emphasising experimental design, data analysis and scientific communication.
• Professional experience: opportunities for co‑operative education placements and internships that integrate classroom learning with practical, workplace experience.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong background in mathematics and the natural sciences. Recommended preparation includes high school chemistry and biology and coursework in algebra, geometry and pre‑calculus or calculus.

• Competitive academic record with strong grades in science and mathematics.
• Evidence of laboratory experience or extracurricular science activities is beneficial (research projects, science clubs, competitions).
• Standardised tests, where required by the university for admission, should reflect readiness for a STEM degree; RIT's admissions policies on testing may vary, so consult the admissions office for current guidance.
• International applicants typically must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests unless exempt.
• Transfer applicants are assessed on college transcripts; articulation from community college STEM coursework is commonly accepted into the programme when course content matches RIT requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are well prepared for scientific and technical roles in research, industry and healthcare, and for further professional or graduate study.

• Research and development: roles in academic, government and industry laboratories, including biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies.
• Clinical and diagnostic laboratories: positions in clinical testing, quality control and laboratory management (additional certification or training may be required).
• Bioinformatics and data science: entry into computational biology or data‑driven roles leveraging quantitative training.
• Regulatory, quality and manufacturing: roles in regulatory affairs, process development and production in biologics and medical devices.
• Further study and professional careers: many graduates continue to graduate programmes (MS/PhD), medical, dental or other professional schools, or combine the degree with law or business qualifications for careers in patent law, consulting or management.

Why study at Rochester Institute of Technology

RIT emphasises experiential learning, offering a well‑established cooperative education programme that places students in paid professional work terms to gain real‑world experience. The institute has modern research laboratories, instrumentation and interdisciplinary centres that support undergraduate research and collaboration with faculty across chemistry, biology, engineering and computing.

• Strong emphasis on hands‑on laboratory training and independent research projects.
• Co‑op and internship pathways that connect students with employers in the Rochester regional biotech and medical technology ecosystem and beyond.
• Access to career services, mentorship and industry partnerships that support transition to graduate study or employment.
• An interdisciplinary approach that allows students to combine molecular biology with computational, engineering or business electives to match specific career goals.