University of South Alabama

What you'll study

The curriculum combines core biological science with focused study in human physiology and disease processes. You will study how organ systems function in health and how cellular and tissue-level pathology underpins medical conditions, alongside practical laboratory training and research methods.

• Core modules: Human Anatomy and Physiology, Cellular and Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics.
• Pathology-focused modules: General Pathology, Histology and Microscopy, Immunology, Disease Mechanisms.
• Systems physiology: Cardiovascular Physiology, Respiratory Physiology, Neurophysiology, Endocrine and Renal Physiology.
• Laboratory and practical training: Clinical Laboratory Techniques, Histopathology Methods, Advanced Laboratory Methods, Animal and Human Experimental Techniques (where approved).
• Research and professional skills: Experimental Design and Statistics, Scientific Communication, Ethics in Biomedical Research, Capstone Project or Senior Research Thesis.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: Pharmacology, Toxicology, Public Health, Biomedical Engineering topics, or courses supporting pre‑health pathways.

The programme typically mixes lectures, small-group classes and considerable hands-on lab time. Students are encouraged to take part in faculty-led research, clinical observation experiences through USA Health partnerships, and internships with local hospitals, clinics or biotech employers.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma (or equivalent) with a strong preparation in the sciences. Successful candidates typically have completed courses in:

• Biology (with laboratory)
• Chemistry (general chemistry with laboratory; introductory organic or biochemistry recommended)
• Mathematics (algebra and pre-calculus; statistics or calculus recommended)

Admissions consider overall academic record and strength of science coursework. Relevant extracurricular experience—such as laboratory work, volunteer experience in healthcare settings, or research internships—strengthens an application. Where standardised tests are used, scores are considered alongside grades and other materials. Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts showing successful completion of relevant introductory science and general education courses.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with technical laboratory skills, understanding of disease mechanisms and experience in experimental design—preparing them for a variety of roles in the life sciences and health sectors.

• Laboratory technician or technologist roles in clinical, research or industrial labs.
• Clinical research coordinator or trial support positions in academic medical centres and pharma.
• Entry roles in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies (assay development, quality control, regulatory support).
• Further professional or graduate study: medicine, physician assistant, dentistry, nursing, physical therapy, public health, or MSc/PhD programmes in physiology, pathology, biomedical sciences.
• Teaching and science communication roles at secondary or community levels with additional certification.

The programme’s emphasis on practical laboratory competence and research experience also helps graduates compete for externally funded research assistantships and internship placements.

Why study at University of South Alabama

The University of South Alabama offers proximity to a major academic health system (USA Health) and research centres, which provides undergraduates with access to clinical settings, specialised labs and practising clinicians. Faculty members are active in biomedical research, and there are structured opportunities for students to join labs, present at symposia and contribute to publishable projects.

• Clinical and research partnerships: Collaborative connections with USA Health hospitals and regional healthcare providers enable internships, clinical observation and translational research experiences.
• Facilities and hands-on training: Access to teaching laboratories, histology and microscopy suites, and instrumentation used in modern biomedical research.
• Support for career progression: Advising for pre-health students, assistance with application preparation for professional schools, and links to local biotech and clinical research employers.
• Small-class learning and mentorship: Opportunities for one-to-one mentorship with faculty and to undertake an independent senior thesis or capstone project.

Overall, the programme is designed to give students both the conceptual grounding and the practical experience needed to succeed in laboratory careers, clinical research or advanced study in health and life sciences.