Ramapo College of New Jersey

What you'll study

This programme provides a balanced curriculum across the physical and life sciences. Early semesters focus on core foundations: general chemistry, introductory biology, calculus and introductory physics. As you progress you choose advanced courses that reflect either a biological or physical science emphasis, or maintain a deliberately interdisciplinary mix.

• Core modules: General Chemistry, General Biology, Calculus, University Physics, Scientific Writing and Research Methods, and Laboratory Safety and Techniques.
• Physical science options: Analytical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Thermodynamics, Materials Science and Instrumentation.
• Biological science options: Cell and Molecular Biology, Genetics, Microbiology, Ecology and Evolution, Physiology, Biochemistry, and Biotechnology methods.
• Laboratory and research experience: Emphasis on hands-on laboratory courses throughout each year, with opportunities to undertake independent research projects or summer research placements under faculty supervision.
• Capstone / integrative project: Senior-year capstone or thesis project that requires experimental design, data analysis and written/oral presentation of findings.
• Supplementary skills: Coursework and workshops in data analysis, scientific computing, statistics, and ethical issues in science to prepare students for interdisciplinary work.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed secondary education with strong grades in mathematics and science subjects. Typical preparation includes high school chemistry and biology plus algebra and/or calculus. Successful candidates commonly demonstrate proficiency in laboratory work, an interest in quantitative problem solving, and readiness for a science-focused workload.

• Academic qualifications: Secondary school diploma or equivalent with competitive grades; evidence of strong performance in STEM subjects.
• Recommended subjects: Chemistry and either biology or physics; mathematics through algebra and ideally pre-calculus or calculus.
• Supporting materials: Personal statement outlining scientific interests and goals; letters of recommendation (often from science teachers); transcripts. Some applicants may also include descriptions of research, internships or laboratory experience.
• Placement and transfer students: Students transferring from community colleges or other institutions are considered with evaluation of prior coursework. Placement testing may be used to determine appropriate entry-level math and chemistry courses.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with versatile scientific training suitable for multiple career pathways. The programme prepares students for technical and research roles, further professional training and graduate study.

• Research and laboratory roles: Laboratory technician, research assistant, environmental technician, or roles in quality control and analytical laboratories.
• Industry and applied science: Positions in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, materials science, chemical manufacturing, instrumentation and environmental consulting.
• Health and allied professions: Preparation for further training in healthcare fields such as medical, dental, physician assistant, or other allied health programmes (additional preprofessional prerequisites may be needed).
• Further study: Graduates commonly progress to specialised master’s or PhD programmes in chemistry, physics, biology, environmental science, or professional degrees.
• Transferable skills: Analytical reasoning, experimental design, data analysis, scientific communication and problem-solving are valued across education, public policy, science writing and technical sales.

Why study at Ramapo College of New Jersey

Ramapo College offers a liberal arts environment with strong emphasis on undergraduate teaching and small class sizes, which supports close interaction with faculty. The college’s science departments emphasise hands-on laboratory experience and undergraduate research, allowing students to work directly with faculty on projects and gain practical skills.

• Undergraduate research: Opportunities to participate in faculty-led research, independent projects and summer research that enhance practical laboratory experience and graduate school competitiveness.
• Interdisciplinary approach: The programme’s flexibility enables students to combine biological and physical science coursework, tailoring study to career goals or graduate study plans.
• Facilities and support: Access to teaching laboratories, instrumentation and academic advising that help students plan internships, fieldwork and post-graduation pathways.
• Preparation for career and further study: Career services, pre-professional advising and connections with regional industries and graduate programmes support transition from undergraduate study to employment or advanced degrees.