Brigham Young University

What you'll study

The programme combines core coursework in biology, chemistry and physics with mathematics and laboratory experience to build a broad, quantitative scientific foundation. Typical first-year and core modules cover general chemistry with laboratory, introductory biology with laboratory, calculus, and calculus-based physics. Subsequent years allow concentration in areas such as biochemistry, molecular biology, physical chemistry, optics, materials science, geoscience or astronomy depending on elective choices.

Laboratory and skills training is emphasised throughout: students complete multi-term lab sequences, develop competence in experimental design, data analysis and scientific communication, and often undertake a senior capstone or research project. Coursework commonly encountered includes organic chemistry, statistical methods for the sciences, cell and molecular biology, thermodynamics, spectroscopy, and advanced laboratory techniques. Students can tailor the programme with electives in computational methods, environmental science, instrumentation, or pedagogy to suit career goals.

Entry requirements

Applicants need a high-school diploma or equivalent with a strong background in STEM subjects. Competitive candidates will typically have completed secondary-level courses in chemistry, physics, biology and mathematics (pre-calculus or calculus) and demonstrate readiness for university-level quantitative work. As part of admission to Brigham Young University, applicants submit academic transcripts and meet institutional admission standards and the university's Honor Code expectations.

New students may take placement assessments that determine appropriate starting levels for mathematics and language courses. Transfer students are evaluated on college transcripts; prior college-level laboratory science and mathematics coursework may be credited toward degree requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with a flexible scientific skill set applicable to many paths. Common next steps include graduate study (master's or PhD) in disciplines such as chemistry, physics, molecular biology or materials science, and professional schools in medicine, dentistry or allied health. Career options in industry include laboratory technician or scientist roles in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, environmental testing, instrumentation and materials companies.

Other career trajectories include secondary or postsecondary teaching (often after additional certification), technical roles in forensic or clinical laboratories, scientific writing and communication, regulatory or quality assurance positions, and roles in STEM policy or outreach. The programme’s emphasis on quantitative reasoning and laboratory practice also prepares graduates for interdisciplinary roles that bridge physical and life sciences.

Why study at Brigham Young University

Brigham Young University offers strong undergraduate-focused science education with accessible faculty and numerous opportunities for hands-on research. The university supports student research through departmental labs and campus research offices, enabling undergraduates to engage in mentored projects, present at symposia and contribute to publishable work.

Students benefit from well-equipped teaching and research laboratories, interdisciplinary collaboration across departments, and a network of industry and professional school advisers. Small class sizes in upper-level modules, active student science organisations and internship connections in the region help translate classroom learning into practical experience and career-ready skills.

Finally, the programme’s flexible structure makes it suitable for students who want a broad scientific education that can be customised toward advanced study, professional training or a variety of careers in the physical and life sciences.