Indiana University Bloomington

What you'll study

This programme builds core knowledge in biology while emphasising biomedical topics relevant to human health. Early coursework covers general biology, chemistry, calculus or statistics, and foundational laboratory methods. Core biomedical modules commonly include cell and molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, human physiology, and immunology.

• First‑ and second‑year classes: general biology with labs, general and organic chemistry with labs, introductory mathematics/statistics, and courses satisfying the university’s general education requirements.
• Upper‑level biomedical courses: molecular biology techniques, advanced cell biology, biochemistry of metabolism, microbiology and infectious disease, human physiology, neurobiology, and bioinformatics or computational biology options.
• Practical training: multi‑term laboratory courses, independent lab research or thesis projects, laboratory rotations, and coursework in experimental design and scientific ethics.
• Interdisciplinary and elective options: courses in pharmacology, physiology of disease, systems biology, epidemiology, data analysis for life sciences, and seminars on current biomedical research.
• Capstone and experiential learning: many students complete a research capstone, internship in a biotech or clinical setting, or participate in the university’s undergraduate research programme.

Entry requirements

Admission is through Indiana University Bloomington’s undergraduate admissions process. Typical academic preparation includes a high school diploma or equivalent with strong performance in science and maths.

• Recommended high‑school preparation: biology, chemistry (preferably two years with lab work), algebra and precalculus or calculus, and coursework that develops quantitative skills and written communication.
• Academic profile: competitive high school grades and a curriculum that demonstrates readiness for college‑level science. Standardised tests may be considered according to the university’s current testing policy.
• Additional materials: a personal statement or essay, letters of recommendation, and for international applicants, proof of English proficiency through recognised tests or university‑accepted alternatives.
• Transfer applicants: college transcripts showing completion of key prerequisites (general chemistry, introductory biology, math/statistics) are evaluated for transfer credit and direct entry into upper‑level coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates are well prepared for a range of pathways in research, healthcare, industry and education. The degree is designed to provide both the technical skills and conceptual background needed for next steps in the life sciences.

• Laboratory and research roles: research technician, laboratory assistant, or research scientist in academic, clinical, government or industrial laboratories.
• Healthcare and clinical preparation: many graduates pursue professional schools (medicine, dentistry, physician assistant, physical therapy, pharmacy) or graduate study (MS/PhD) in biomedical disciplines.
• Biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries: positions in drug development, quality control, regulatory affairs, and clinical trial support.
• Public health and policy: roles in public health agencies, health data analysis, epidemiology and science policy.
• Other careers: scientific writing and communication, patent and regulatory consulting, secondary education, and continued academic research as graduate students.

Why study at Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University Bloomington offers a research‑intensive environment with opportunities for undergraduate students to work alongside faculty on active biomedical projects. The campus combines strong life‑science departments with cross‑disciplinary centres and core facilities that support genomics, microscopy and computational biology.

• Undergraduate research: structured programmes and faculty mentoring make it straightforward for undergraduates to join laboratories and present research at symposia.
• Facilities and collaboration: access to modern teaching and research laboratories, instrumentation, and collaborative centres that connect biology with informatics, chemistry and public health.
• Support for career preparation: advising, internship placement services and pre‑professional resources help students prepare applications for graduate and professional schools or enter the workforce.
• Campus experience: a large, diverse campus with student organisations, seminars and volunteer opportunities that enrich scientific training and professional development.