BA in Biology - Molecular and Cellular Biology Emphasis

The Department of Biology offers a program that allows the student to obtain a thorough preparation for graduate or professional school, to acquire the laboratory training necessary for entry into advanced programs in biotechnology, or to supplement other major studies with a broad background in biology. A strong emphasis is placed on laboratory and field experience, not only to acquaint the student with the working methods of science, but also to foster active learning skills. Moreover, in recognition that all biological understanding has its origin in research, and this fundamental activity is as exciting as it is enlightening, all biology majors are required to include a Research Experience in their program of study. The Research Experience can be fulfilled in several ways, including research on campus under faculty supervision (see Undergraduate Research) or off campus through our internship program. The following high school preparation is strongly recommended for students planning a major in biology at USD: elementary algebra, plane geometry, intermediate algebra, trigonometry, chemistry, physics, and biology. Students are urged to consult departmental advisors early in their college career in order to select a program of courses most suitable to their future goals. The high faculty-to-student ratio allows each student to receive individualized assistance in course selection and career planning. The flexible structure of the biology major allows each student to focus his or her studies in one or more areas of interest. To assist those students preparing for careers in the health sciences, the university offers a Pre-Health Advising office within the Dean’s office of the College of Arts & Sciences. By working together with the Pre-Health advisor and their academic advisor within the Biology Department, pre-health students can design a course of study that best prepares them for their chosen professional school. Molecular and Cellular Biology Emphasis An emphasis in molecular and cellular biology (MCB) provides a student with a broad understanding of biological principles while focusing on cellular and subcellular biology. An emphasis in MCB can prepare students for entry-level careers or graduate/professional studies in the health professions, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry, higher education, government, and many other areas. These include traditional graduate programs in the biological sciences as well as Professional Science Masters degree (PSM) programs for those interested in leadership roles in biotech/pharma companies. Recommended upper-division biology courses include Molecular Biology (BIOL 482), Techniques in Molecular Biology (BIOL 382), Cell Physiology with Lab (BIOL 480 & BIOL 480L), Immunology (BIOL 484), Microbiology (BIOL 342), Electron Microscopy (BIOL 432), Animal Development (BIOL 376), and Biostatistics (BIOL 301). Addition of Biochemistry (CHEM 331) and Biochemistry Laboratory (CHEM 335) should also be considered. Students with an interest in physiology should also consider taking Plant Physiology (BIOL 472), Invertebrate Physiology (BIOL 477), and/or Vertebrate Physiology (BIOL 478). MCB students should also consider taking additional mathematics and a basic computer programming course. Biology majors pursuing this emphasis can meet their Research Experience requirement by doing research in the lab of a Biology or Biochemistry faculty member with a research program in these areas, or in the lab of an off-campus researcher through our internship program.