Northern Arizona University

What you'll study

This programme covers the cellular and molecular basis of microbial life, principles of immunology, and practical laboratory skills. Early coursework builds a strong foundation in general biology, chemistry and quantitative reasoning; later coursework emphasises microbiology, molecular biology, immunology and applied laboratory techniques.

• Core science subjects: general biology, cell biology, genetics, biochemistry and molecular biology.
• Chemistry and quantitative skills: general and organic chemistry laboratory sequences, introductory calculus or statistics and data analysis relevant to biological research.
• Microbiology and immunology topics: bacteriology, virology, microbial physiology, microbial genetics, host–pathogen interactions, innate and adaptive immunity, and clinical immunology.
• Practical and technical training: aseptic technique, microscopy, culture methods, PCR and molecular assays, flow cytometry fundamentals, serological methods and bioinformatics tools for sequence analysis.
• Capstone and experiential learning: an undergraduate research project or senior capstone, laboratory internships or practicum placements, and opportunities to present findings at symposiums or in departmental seminars.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: environmental microbiology, industrial microbiology, public health microbiology, microbial ecology and electives in allied fields such as neuroscience, pharmacology or ecology.

Entry requirements

Admission is at undergraduate level and requires completion of a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Applicants are expected to have strong preparation in science and mathematics from high school.

• Recommended collegiate prerequisites include high school biology and chemistry, and coursework in mathematics (algebra and precalculus or statistics).
• Typical application materials include academic transcripts and any institutionally required test scores or placement information; international applicants must provide recognised secondary credentials and evidence of English language proficiency when applicable.
• Transfer students should supply college transcripts; previous coursework in biology and chemistry can be evaluated for programme placement and credit.
• Entry to some lab courses may require demonstration of immunisation or health screening as determined by local practicum partners and university policy.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a variety of roles across healthcare, industry, environmental sectors and research. The degree provides both technical laboratory skills and a broad scientific foundation for further study.

• Laboratory and technical roles: research technician, clinical laboratory assistant/technologist (note: certain clinical roles require additional certification or training), quality-control analyst in biotech or pharmaceutical firms.
• Healthcare and allied professions: preparation for graduate and professional pathways such as medicine, dentistry, physician assistant, public health or clinical laboratory science.
• Research and development: positions in academic or industry research labs; many graduates pursue postgraduate degrees (MSc, PhD) to advance research careers.
• Environmental and public health: roles in environmental microbiology, water quality, public health surveillance and outbreak investigation.
• Education and science communication: secondary science teaching (additional certification required), outreach or laboratory management.

Why study at Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University offers an undergraduate-focused environment with opportunities for hands-on laboratory experience and close mentorship from faculty. The campus location supports collaborations with regional healthcare providers and research organisations, and students benefit from access to modern teaching laboratories and undergraduate research programmes.

• Undergraduate research emphasis: students are encouraged to join faculty-led projects or design independent studies that build practical skills and scientific communication.
• Practical training opportunities: practicum, internships and partnerships with local hospitals and laboratories help bridge classroom learning and professional experience.
• Supportive environment: smaller class sizes in upper-division courses allow for personalised advising, research supervision and career guidance.
• Preparation for diverse careers: the curriculum balances theoretical understanding with hands-on technique training, preparing graduates for employment or further study in biomedical, environmental and public health fields.