Emory University

What you'll study

Students follow a core sequence that integrates chemistry, physics and biology with progressive laboratory experience. Typical areas of study include:

• Foundations: General and organic chemistry, calculus, and introductory physics to provide the quantitative backbone for the major.
• Core biological disciplines: Cell biology, genetics, molecular biology and developmental biology covering structure and function at the molecular and cellular levels.
• Biochemistry: Metabolism, enzymology, structural biochemistry and biochemical regulation.
• Biophysics: Application of physical principles to biological molecules and systems, including thermodynamics, spectroscopy and single‑molecule methods.
• Laboratory and quantitative skills: Progressive lab courses teaching molecular cloning, protein purification and analysis, microscopy, bioinformatics and statistical methods for experimental data.
• Advanced electives and seminars: Topics such as structural biology, systems biology, neurobiology, synthetic biology and computational biology allow specialisation based on student interests.
• Research and capstone: Independent research in faculty labs, a senior thesis or a capstone practicum is encouraged; many students begin research early and continue across multiple semesters.

Students also take complementary coursework across the liberal arts and may choose minors or double majors to broaden their training.

Entry requirements

Admissions to the BBMB major are through Emory’s undergraduate admissions process. Competitive applicants typically present a strong high‑school record with emphasis on mathematics and laboratory sciences (biology and chemistry), and preparation in physics. Emory’s admissions review considers the whole application: academic transcript, recommendations, personal statement and extracurricular engagement. Standardised tests (if submitted) and demonstrated quantitative ability strengthen an application; international applicants must meet Emory’s English language and credential requirements. Internal major declaration may require specific prerequisite courses and a minimum GPA in those courses.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of careers. Common pathways include:

• Research roles in academic, government or industry laboratories as research assistants or technicians.
• Further study toward PhD programmes in molecular biology, biochemistry, biophysics or related disciplines.
• Professional training for medicine, dentistry, pharmacy or other clinical professions.
• Employment in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies in discovery, development, regulatory affairs or quality control.
• Careers in science policy, patent law (with further training), scientific communication and education.

Emory students benefit from practicum placements, internships and connections with nearby research institutions and healthcare organisations, which help translate academic training into career opportunities.

Why study at Emory University

Emory combines a research‑intensive environment with a liberal arts approach to undergraduate education. BBMB students have access to research laboratories across campus and the Woodruff Health Sciences Centre, opportunities to collaborate with faculty on funded projects, and proximity to major biomedical organisations in Atlanta. Small class sizes for advanced courses, structured mentorship and a variety of extracurricular research and professional development programmes support students preparing for research careers or further professional study.