Idaho State University

What you'll study

This programme builds a strong foundation in chemistry, physics and biology before moving into specialised molecular and cellular topics. Year one focuses on core natural science and mathematics: general chemistry, introductory biology, calculus or statistics, and introductory physics. In subsequent years you study core subjects such as organic chemistry, physical chemistry concepts relevant to biological systems, biochemistry, molecular biology and genetics.

• Laboratory and practical skills – hands‑on laboratory courses teach instrumentation, experimental design, data analysis and safety, with progressive lab experiences from introductory to advanced techniques.
• Advanced molecular topics – courses cover cell biology, molecular genetics, gene regulation, protein structure and function, enzymology, and biophysics principles applied to biological macromolecules.
• Computational and quantitative methods – bioinformatics, statistics for the life sciences and quantitative approaches to molecular problems are integrated to build data analysis skills.
• Research and capstone – students complete a senior seminar or capstone project and are encouraged to participate in faculty‑mentored research, internships or independent study to apply laboratory and analytical skills to real research questions.
• Electives and special topics – elective options commonly include microbiology, immunology, structural biology, proteomics, genomics, and applied biophysics, allowing students to tailor their degree to research or professional goals.

Entry requirements

Admission to the programme normally requires a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong background in science and mathematics. Applicants should have completed secondary courses in biology, chemistry and algebra; preparation in calculus and physics is strongly recommended.

• Typical academic preparation includes high‑level secondary science courses (for example A‑levels, IB Higher Level sciences, or U.S. college‑prep courses in biology and chemistry).
• University admissions consider overall academic record; competitive applicants demonstrate strong grades in STEM subjects. Transfer students should have completed introductory college coursework in biology and chemistry.
• English language proficiency is required for non‑native speakers; applicants may meet this requirement through recognised English tests or institutional pathways.
• Mature and non‑traditional applicants are welcome; students with prior college experience or relevant technical training are considered on individual merits.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a wide range of careers in industry, healthcare and research, or for further study. Common pathways include:

• Research technician or associate roles in academic, government or industrial laboratories (biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, environmental labs).
• Positions in biotechnology and life‑sciences companies, including roles in quality control, assay development, and product support.
• Further study in graduate programmes (MSc/PhD) in molecular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, bioinformatics or related disciplines.
• Preparation for professional healthcare programmes such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy or physician assistant training, where the degree provides strong preparation for prerequisite coursework.
• Careers in laboratory management, technical sales, regulatory affairs, forensic science, and science communication, often following additional certification or experience.

Why study at Idaho State University

Idaho State University offers this interdisciplinary programme within a department that supports undergraduate research and hands‑on laboratory training. Students benefit from access to modern teaching laboratories, opportunities to work with research‑active faculty, and collaborations across campus science and health departments.

• Undergraduate research opportunities allow students to gain practical experience and build a competitive CV for graduate or professional school applications.
• Smaller class sizes in upper‑level courses provide direct mentoring from faculty and closer interaction during laboratory work and research projects.
• Connections with regional healthcare providers, research facilities and local industry can support internships, practicum placements and post‑graduation employment options.
• The programme’s interdisciplinary structure prepares graduates to apply molecular and quantitative approaches across biomedical, environmental and technological challenges.