University of North Dakota

What you'll study

The programme builds a foundation in chemistry, physics and mathematics before moving into specialised molecular and cellular topics. Core topics typically include general and organic chemistry, physical chemistry principles relevant to biological systems, introductory and advanced biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics and cell biology. Students also study biophysics concepts such as protein structure and dynamics, thermodynamics and spectroscopy as applied to biological molecules.

• Laboratory training: extensive hands-on lab courses teach techniques in molecular cloning, electrophoresis, chromatography, spectroscopy, microscopy and quantitative biochemical assays.
• Quantitative skills: calculus, statistics and data analysis for interpreting experimental results and modelling biological phenomena.
• Research experience: opportunities for supervised undergraduate research in faculty laboratories, culminating in a capstone project or senior thesis that emphasises experimental design, data interpretation and scientific communication.
• Electives and special topics: courses in structural biology, enzymology, computational biology/bioinformatics, immunology, neurobiology or advanced biophysical methods allow students to tailor the degree to their interests.
• Professional development: seminars, ethics in science, and opportunities for internships or collaborative projects with nearby research institutes and the School of Medicine and Health Sciences.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a high school diploma or equivalent with strong preparation in science and mathematics. Typical preparation includes courses in chemistry (preferably including laboratory work), biology and algebra; calculus and physics are recommended. Admissions evaluate academic transcripts and the overall strength of the applicant's preparation for a rigorous science degree.

• Domestic applicants: competitive secondary-school grades in science and maths are expected; applicants transferring from other post-secondary institutions will need official college transcripts.
• International applicants: proof of academic credentials equivalent to US secondary education is required. English language proficiency must be demonstrated by recognised tests or institutional exemptions where applicable.
• Additional considerations: relevant extracurricular experience (lab work, science clubs, internships), personal statement and letters of recommendation can strengthen an application. Students without full prerequisites may be admitted conditionally and required to complete preparatory coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of careers in science, healthcare and industry or for continued study. Common pathways include entry to graduate programmes (MS/PhD) in molecular biology, biochemistry, biophysics or related fields, and professional schools such as medicine, dentistry or veterinary medicine.

• Research technician or laboratory scientist in academic, hospital or commercial laboratories
• Positions in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies (drug discovery, quality control, process development)
• Clinical laboratory roles and allied health professions with additional certification
• Careers in bioinformatics, regulatory affairs, science policy or technical consulting
• Further training for careers in patent law or scientific publishing

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers this interdisciplinary programme within a department that emphasises both rigorous coursework and accessible undergraduate research. Small to moderate class sizes provide direct interaction with faculty whose research spans structural biology, molecular genetics, enzymology and biomedical applications.

• Undergraduate research opportunities: many faculty-led labs take undergraduate students, enabling hands-on experience and contribution to publishable research projects.
• Collaborative environment: close ties with the School of Medicine and Health Sciences and regional research partners create internship and cross-disciplinary project possibilities.
• Facilities and resources: modern teaching and research laboratories, core instrumentation for microscopy, spectroscopy and molecular analyses, and student support services for career planning and graduate school applications.
• Preparation for next steps: the curriculum is designed to provide the technical skills, experimental literacy and quantitative background sought by employers and graduate programmes in the life sciences.