Drew University

What you'll study

The biology curriculum at Drew is designed to build strong conceptual and practical skills across molecular, cellular and organismal biology while situating scientific knowledge within the broader liberal arts. Students take core courses in cell biology, genetics, ecology and evolution, and biological chemistry, alongside laboratory courses that emphasise experimental design, data analysis and scientific communication.

Typical modules and subjects include:

• Foundations: introductory biology sequences that cover cellular processes, genetics and organismal diversity.
• Core disciplines: cell and molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, physiology, developmental biology and ecology.
• Laboratory and quantitative skills: molecular techniques, microscopy, biostatistics, bioinformatics and experimental lab courses that reinforce hands-on skills.
• Fieldwork and ecology: field biology, conservation biology and ecosystem studies often conducted in New Jersey habitats or local natural areas.
• Advanced electives: topics such as immunology, neurobiology, evolutionary biology, plant biology and environmental toxicology.
• Capstone and research: an independent research project or senior thesis supervised by faculty, with opportunities to present findings at campus symposia or regional conferences.

Students also complete Drew's liberal arts core curriculum, which develops writing, quantitative reasoning and interdisciplinary perspectives. There are opportunities for cross-disciplinary study with chemistry, environmental studies, computer science and psychology, and options for internships in hospital, industry or government settings.

Entry requirements

Applicants should demonstrate strong preparation in biology and chemistry from secondary school, and a solid grounding in mathematics. Competitive candidates typically present a combination of coursework and grades that show strength in science and analytical subjects. Drew evaluates applications holistically, considering academic records, recommendation letters, personal statements and any relevant laboratory, internship or research experience.

For international applicants, proof of English language proficiency may be required if English is not the applicant's first language. Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and course descriptions so the department can evaluate transfer credit and appropriate placement in the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates of Drew's biology programme pursue a broad range of career paths. Common trajectories include:

• Entry-level positions in clinical or research laboratories, biotech companies, environmental consultancies and public health organisations.
• Preparation for professional programmes such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, physician assistant studies and allied health professions; Drew's curriculum and advising support preparation for professional school applications and required prerequisite coursework.
• Further academic study in master's or doctoral programmes in biology, ecology, molecular biology, bioinformatics and related fields.
• Teaching at the secondary level following appropriate certification, or roles in science communication, policy, and non-profit organisations focused on conservation and environmental education.

Hands-on research experience, internships and faculty mentorship at Drew help graduates build the practical skills and professional networks important for these careers.

Why study at Drew University

Drew offers a small, student-centred learning environment where undergraduates work closely with faculty on laboratory and field research projects. Class sizes are typically small, enabling personalised mentoring and substantial faculty contact — including opportunities to join ongoing research programmes or to design an independent senior thesis.

The university's science facilities support modern experimental work, and its location in New Jersey gives students access to diverse ecosystems for field study as well as proximity to metropolitan research hospitals, biotech firms and internship sites. Drew's liberal arts framework encourages interdisciplinary learning, preparing biology students to think critically across scientific and non-scientific domains and to communicate their work effectively.

Academic advising, career services and pre-professional guidance at Drew help students align coursework and extracurricular experiences with post-graduation goals, whether those are employment, graduate study or professional school.