Central Washington University

What you'll study

This programme builds core knowledge in biology while emphasising microbiology and immunology. You will study subjects such as general microbiology, cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry and immunology. Course work is complemented by substantial laboratory training in aseptic technique, microbial culture, microscopy, molecular techniques (including PCR and gel electrophoresis), serological assays and basic bioinformatics.

Typical modules and topics include:

• Introductory and foundational courses — general biology, general chemistry and calculus-based or statistics-based quantitative reasoning.
• Core microbiology — bacterial physiology, virology, mycology, environmental and applied microbiology.
• Immunology — innate and adaptive immunity, antigen recognition, immunopathology and immunodiagnostics.
• Molecular and cellular approaches — molecular genetics, cell signalling, recombinant DNA techniques and gene expression analysis.
• Laboratory and research methods — hands-on labs, experimental design, data analysis and scientific communication.
• Advanced electives — pathogen-host interactions, microbial ecology, clinical microbiology, virology, and bioinformatics.

Students are encouraged to engage in undergraduate research projects or a senior capstone experience under faculty supervision, and may complete internships with regional healthcare, environmental or biotechnology organisations to gain professional experience.

Entry requirements

Entry typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong science background. Competitive applicants will have completed courses in biology, chemistry (including laboratory), and mathematics (algebra and preferably precalculus or statistics). Admissions consider overall academic record, letters of recommendation and personal statements; standardised test submission policies follow the university's current guidelines.

Transfer applicants should present college coursework in introductory biology and chemistry with satisfactory grades. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements as specified by the university and submit comparable documentation of secondary or post-secondary qualifications.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of laboratory and scientific roles or continue to postgraduate study. Common career paths include research technician or laboratory technologist in academic, industrial or government labs; positions in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies; roles in environmental monitoring and quality control; and employment in public health and clinical laboratories (licensure or certification may be required for some clinical roles).

Many graduates also progress to graduate programmes (MSc, PhD) or professional schools in medicine, physician assistant studies, dentistry or veterinary medicine. Transferable skills such as experimental design, data analysis and scientific communication also prepare graduates for careers in science policy, education and technical sales.

Why study at Central Washington University

Central Washington University offers a degree emphasising hands-on learning in small classes where students work closely with faculty. The programme provides extensive laboratory experience and opportunities for mentored undergraduate research, helping students develop practical skills with modern instrumentation such as PCR platforms, advanced microscopy and molecular biology equipment.

Located in a region with medical centres, environmental agencies and small biotech employers, CWU facilitates internships and regional partnerships that help students gain workplace experience. The department supports career preparation through advising, internship placement assistance and guidance for students planning graduate or professional study.