Learn Laboratory Science on the Coast of Maine

Like a precisely focused microscope, UNE’s Bachelor of Science in Laboratory Science concentrates on classic and state-of-the-art lab technique and instrumental methodology, giving you a firm grounding in chemistry, biology, and biochemistry. By taking a broad spectrum of lab courses, you’ll develop a comprehensive repertoire of skills that will serve you well in a variety of modern lab settings, including academic, medical, or industrial labs.

A laboratory science student in a white coat and gloves prepares slides underneath a microscope

Why UNE for Your B.S. in Laboratory Science

Ranked a “High Research Activity” university by the Carnegie Classification, UNE boasts all the advantages and resources that you would expect at a large institution. Yet we provide a small, intimate college environment that gives you the one-on-one attention and access to sophisticated equipment that are uncommon at the undergraduate level. The Laboratory Science major offers:

  • Training in state-of-the-art lab techniques
  • Abundant local internship opportunities
  • Focus on independent experimental design
  • Proximity to health professions programs
  • Formal and informal peer mentoring
  • Teaching assistantships
Headshot of U N E student Peter Swanson

Peter Swanson ’24

Applied Mathematics, Chemistry, Biophysics

Why UNE

I enjoy how there is such an emphasis on teaching and research in my math and science classes. The department is smaller than a larger state school, so you get to know all of [your professors] on a personal level. They are here to mentor you. A lot of [my professors] stress the importance of guided gradual learning instead of just aiming for that perfect GPA. This is the thing that has helped me the most.

I’ve been able to get out of my comfort zone by presenting posters on research that [I’ve done] with my professors. The encouragement from faculty has better prepared me for graduate school and boosted my resume.

My favorite thing about UNE is the accessibility to such high-quality research labs. I have done research under two different mentors. One project studies protein biomaterials [and] the other looks into computational modeling of supercritical carbon dioxide.

Beautiful Locations

I like how [UNE’s campus] is small and quaint. It’s a little secluded outside of the city and right on the water. We have many things to do outside here. There is access to go hiking nearby, and you have the beach right here. A friend and I started back up the rowing team [after it was inactive for a few years] where we can practice here [on the Saco River].

My favorite thing about UNE is the accessibility to such high-quality research labs. I have done research under two different mentors. One project studies protein biomaterials [and] the other looks into computational modeling of supercritical carbon dioxide.

Applied Mathematics, Chemistry, Biophysics

What will you study? Laboratory Science Degree Curriculum Overview

B.S. in Laboratory Science Courses

The following are some examples of the exciting courses that you can take:

  • Biochemistry
  • Microbiology
  • Physical Chemistry
  • Advanced Lab
  • Instrumental Analysis
  • Parasitology
  • Advanced Biochemistry Lab
  • Quantitative Analysis
  • Histology
  • Human Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathophysiology

Honors Program

We offer qualified students the option of graduating with Honors. This includes significant research, scholarship or creative activity under the direction of a faculty member. Interested students should consult with their advisor.

Career Paths for B.S. in Laboratory Science Majors

Whether you’re destined for a career in medical technology, quality control, biotechnology, or pharmacology, your major in Laboratory Science will provide the knowledge, laboratory skills, analytical abilities, and internship experience you need to succeed.

As a Laboratory Science graduate, there are many professions that you may explore, including:

  • Biotechnology Researcher
  • Biomedical Scientist
  • Laboratory Technician
  • Clinical Research Associate
  • Research Scientist
  • Teacher
  • Science Journalist
  • Toxicologist
  • Forensic Scientist
  • Phlebotomist

Career Advising for B.S. in Laboratory Science Students

Whether you have a specific career goal in mind or a vague idea of the field that interests you, Career Advising is here to help you plan your next step.

Laboratory Science Facilities

Our Laboratory Science program is housed in Peter and Cecile Morgane Hall, with additional teaching and research laboratories in the Harold Alfond Center for Health Sciences and biochemistry research laboratories in the Pickus Center for Biomedical Research. All of the facilities are located on our beautiful seaside campus in Biddeford.

Morgane Hall houses the general chemistry, general physics, and biochemistry teaching labs as well as some small research labs. The advanced chemistry teaching and research labs are located on the third floor of the Alfond Center and the first floor of the Pickus Center. Pickus has flexible biochemistry research space, where you work with faculty using a wide range of modern chemical and biochemical instrumentation in facilities designed to be conducive to learning and research productivity.

Experiential Learning in the Bachelor’s Degree in Laboratory Science

In our Laboratory Science program, you’ll engage in hands-on learning by working with faculty on research projects, conducting your own lab experiments, and getting on-the-job experience through internships – because at UNE we believe in learning by doing.

Internships for Laboratory Science Majors 

You may complete an internship over the summer at sites including hospitals, private or government labs, educational institutions, or science centers. Or intern during the academic year with one of the prestigious employers with which we partner:

  • IDEXX
  • Lonza
  • Jackson Laboratories
  • Envirologix
  • Katahdin Labs

For more information email the Academic and Career Advising Center at advising@electronic-fittings.com.

Research for Laboratory Science Students

We offer a breadth of research opportunities not commonly found at the undergraduate level – from synthesizing bioactive compounds and engineering protein materials to synthesizing small  molecule drugs and exploring environmental toxicology,

  • Collaborate with faculty on innovative research
  • Engage in undergraduate research in your coursework
  • Perform paid research
  • Present at conferences and publish your findings

Laboratory Science FAQ