Susquehanna University

What you'll study

The BMB curriculum integrates core principles from biology, chemistry and physics with a molecular focus. You will take foundational courses in general chemistry and biology, organic chemistry, physical chemistry and calculus or statistics, followed by advanced molecular biology, biochemistry and biophysics classes. Typical modules include cellular and molecular biology, enzymology, structural biology, genetics, laboratory techniques in molecular biology, spectroscopy and thermodynamics, and computational methods for biological data.

Hands-on laboratory work is central to the programme: courses include supervised wet-lab experiments, instrumentation training (for example spectrophotometry, chromatography and PCR-based methods) and data analysis. Students are encouraged to undertake independent research projects under faculty supervision, often culminating in a senior seminar or thesis. Electives allow you to explore related areas such as microbiology, neuroscience, bioinformatics, environmental chemistry and ethical issues in the life sciences. Internship and field-placement options enable real-world experience in industry, clinical or government settings.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong background in the sciences and mathematics. Recommended high-school preparation includes courses in biology, chemistry and physics, together with algebra and preferably calculus. Admissions decisions consider academic record, letters of recommendation, a personal statement and involvement in extracurricular or laboratory activities; successful candidates typically demonstrate curiosity for quantitative science and readiness for intensive laboratory work.

Transfer applicants are evaluated on college-level coursework and grades in science and mathematics. Students without certain prerequisites may be admitted but will be expected to complete foundational courses in the first year. Prospective students should consult Susquehanna University's admissions guidance for information on application materials and any institution-specific requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BMB degree go on to a wide range of careers. Common paths include pursuing graduate study (MS or PhD) in biochemistry, molecular biology, biophysics or related fields; professional programmes in medicine, dentistry, physician assistantship and veterinary medicine; and entry-level roles in biotechnology, pharmaceutical research and development, clinical laboratories and diagnostic companies.

Other career options include regulatory affairs, quality control, scientific sales and technical support, laboratory management, science education and science communication. The combination of laboratory skills, quantitative training and research experience also prepares graduates for roles in bioinformatics, data analysis and interdisciplinary research teams.

Why study at Susquehanna University

Susquehanna is a liberal-arts university that emphasises small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, which benefits undergraduates pursuing laboratory-intensive disciplines. The BMB programme offers plentiful opportunities for one-to-one research with faculty, access to modern teaching laboratories and instrumentation, and a curriculum designed to bridge chemistry, biology and physics.

Students benefit from a campus culture that supports undergraduate research, internship placement assistance and a network of alumni working in industry and graduate programmes. The programme’s interdisciplinary structure and emphasis on practical laboratory experience prepare students both for advanced study and for immediate employment in the molecular life sciences.