Central Washington University

What you'll study

The programme focuses on the principles of cellular and molecular biology and the laboratory skills used to investigate living systems. Core study areas include cell structure and function, molecular genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, physiology and developmental biology. Coursework combines lectures with regular laboratory classes to develop microscopy, molecular cloning, PCR, electrophoresis, chromatography and tissue culture techniques.

• Core modules: Cell Biology, Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Comparative Physiology.
• Methods and skills: Laboratory Techniques in Molecular Biology, Microscopy and Imaging, Bioinformatics and Data Analysis, Laboratory Safety and Experimental Design.
• Capstone and research: Independent Research Project or Senior Capstone in which students design and carry out an original laboratory investigation under faculty supervision.
• Complementary options: Electives in ecology, immunology, pharmacology, plant biology or computer science; opportunities for internships and field courses that contextualise laboratory learning.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent with strong preparation in the sciences and mathematics. Typical preparations include college‑preparatory biology and chemistry and coursework in algebra or precalculus. Central Washington University admits both first‑time freshmen and transfer students; transfer applicants with completed community college coursework in biology, chemistry and mathematics are commonly considered.

International applicants must meet CWU's English language proficiency requirements and provide credential evaluations for academic documents where required. Applicants to the major should demonstrate interest and aptitude for laboratory work; some programmes recommend or require completion of introductory biology and chemistry before enrolling in upper‑division courses.

Career prospects

Graduates of a cellular biology bachelor’s programme pursue a range of career paths in the public and private sectors or continue with postgraduate study. Common roles include laboratory technician, research assistant, quality‑control analyst, biological science technician, and positions in environmental monitoring or biomedical sales.

Many graduates use the degree as preparation for further study: entry to master’s or PhD programmes in biology, molecular biology or related fields, or professional programmes such as medicine, dentistry, physician assistant or veterinary medicine. The programme’s emphasis on laboratory skills and research experience also supports careers in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, healthcare laboratories and science education.

Why study at Central Washington University

Central Washington University offers a student‑centred environment with relatively small class sizes that enable close interaction with faculty and opportunities for one‑to‑one mentoring. The Biology department places emphasis on undergraduate research: students can join faculty labs, undertake independent capstone projects, and present findings at regional meetings.

CWU provides modern teaching and research laboratories, access to field sites in the Cascade foothills for ecological and organismal study, and connections with regional healthcare providers and research employers for internships. The combination of hands‑on laboratory training, research experience and a supportive campus community prepares graduates for careers in science or for advanced study.