About Us

Admission to Degree Program

All degree programs in the Department of Cell Biology and Physiology are open enrollment.

The Discipline

Cell Biology is the study of the structure and function of the cell, the basic unit of life. Physiology is the study of the function and mechanisms of cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems that make up living organisms. Combined, these branches of biology aim to understand such remarkable processes as how the heart develops and works to pump blood, how brain cells communicate with one another, how insulin regulates blood sugar, and how specific gene products determine the morphology and functional capacity of the nervous system. Building on a foundation of chemistry, physics, and biology, the emphasis on integrating molecular, cellular, systems, and whole-body function is what distinguishes the study of cell biology and physiology from other life sciences. The related area of biophysics uses the methods of physics, chemistry, mathematics, and biology to investigate the physical basis of life.

Career Opportunities

Degree programs in the Department of Cell Biology and Physiology prepare students to pursue advanced degrees in either the biological sciences or nonbiological fields or to enter directly into employment. Majors provide outstanding preparation for students seeking admittance into professional programs in medicine, dentistry, optometry, podiatry, chiropractic, or pharmacy. Students who have aspirations of doing health-related research will find a challenging, thorough preparation for entrance into graduate programs and beyond. Graduates will also have the academic and laboratory skills necessary for employment in medical, biotechnological, and pharmaceutical industries. Programs offer students pursuing advanced degrees in business, public management, or law the knowledge and training necessary to be admitted into professional schools and work in governmental agencies, health care and biotechnical industries, and patent or health care law.

Graduation Requirements

To receive a BYU bachelor's degree a student must complete, in addition to all requirements for a specific major, the following university requirements:

• The University Core, consisting of requirements in general and religious education. (For a complete listing of courses that meet university core requirements, see here.)
• At least 30 credit hours must be earned in residence on the BYU campus in Provo as an admitted day student
• A minimum of 120 credit hours
• A cumulative GPA of at least 2.0
• Be in good standing with the Honor Code Office

Students should see their college advisement center for help or information concerning the undergraduate programs.

Graduate Programs Available

This department also offers graduate degree programs. For more information, see Graduate Studies.