Chemistry and Biology
The Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Biology at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a four-year, full-time program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of both chemical and biological sciences. This interdisciplinary program allows students to explore the molecular and cellular aspects of living organisms while applying chemical principles to understand the biological processes that govern life. The program offers a unique combination of biochemistry, organic chemistry, cell biology, and molecular biology, providing students with the knowledge and tools to address complex problems in fields such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and environmental science.
MIT’s approach emphasizes a hands-on learning experience, where students participate in laboratory work, research projects, and collaborative problem-solving. Students will engage in a variety of topics such as biomolecular chemistry, genomics, metabolism, and chemical kinetics, and learn how these areas interconnect to advance biomedical research and drug development. By the end of the program, graduates will be well-prepared to pursue careers in biotechnology, medicine, pharmaceutical research, or graduate studies in chemistry, biology, or related fields.
Key information
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Key Facts
- Program Title: Chemistry and Biology
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 06 January 2026
- Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), United States
- Field of Study: Chemistry
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Chemistry and Biology
- Introduction to Organic and Inorganic Chemistry
- General Biology: Cell and Molecular Biology
- Calculus and Physics for Life Sciences
- Introduction to Laboratory Techniques in Chemistry
- Foundations of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Year 2 – Core Topics in Chemistry and Biology
- Organic Chemistry and Reaction Mechanisms
- Biochemistry and Enzyme Kinetics
- Genetics and Genomics
- Molecular Cell Biology and Signal Transduction
- Chemical Thermodynamics and Equilibrium
Year 3 – Advanced Chemistry, Biology, and Research Techniques
- Physical Chemistry and Biophysical Chemistry
- Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Design
- Immunology and Microbiology
- Advanced Laboratory in Biochemistry and Chemical Biology
- Research Methods in Biological Chemistry
Year 4 – Specialization, Research, and Capstone Project
- Elective Courses in Advanced Topics (e.g., Synthetic Biology, Cancer Biology)
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project in Chemistry and Biology
- Capstone Course: Translational Research in Chemistry and Biology
- Interdisciplinary Collaborations in Biomedical Sciences
- Final Project Presentation and Defense
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Chemistry and Biology Bachelor’s program from MIT are well-prepared for careers in a variety of biomedical, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology fields. With a strong foundation in both chemistry and biology, they are ready to work as biochemists, molecular biologists, pharmacologists, or biotechnology researchers. Many graduates find employment in research labs, pharmaceutical companies, or biotech startups, where they work on drug development, medical research, and the application of chemical and biological techniques to solve health-related problems. Others choose to continue their studies in graduate programs in chemistry, biology, or medicine. MIT’s extensive alumni network and industry connections offer graduates valuable career opportunities in both academia and industry.
Why Choose This Program
The Chemistry and Biology Bachelor’s program at MIT offers a unique and rigorous education that combines the fundamentals of chemistry with the molecular understanding of biology, preparing students to make significant contributions to medical research, drug development, and biotechnology. MIT’s world-class faculty and state-of-the-art laboratories provide students with the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research in chemical biology, genomics, and pharmaceutical sciences. The program’s strong emphasis on hands-on research, collaborative learning, and interdisciplinary study ensures that students are equipped with both the technical expertise and critical thinking skills needed to solve complex scientific challenges. Graduates of this program are well-positioned to become leaders in the fields of biomedicine, chemistry, and life sciences.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 617-253-1000
Email: admissions@mit.edu
Address: University of MIT, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
