Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology

Modern biology is based on a fundamental understanding of molecular processes. Recent advances in molecular biology have led to an explosion of knowledge about gene expression and the role gene products play in cell function. Undergraduate programs in molecular biology offer learning opportunities at the forefront of modern biology. The molecular biology degree programs are designed to prepare students for the future by combining a foundation in basic sciences and humanities with a broad selection of courses in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics and microbiology. Advanced undergraduates attend an outside speaker's program that includes some of the world's best-known scientists. Modern, well-equipped teaching and research laboratories contribute significantly to the educational experience of a student. All junior- and senior-level undergraduates are encouraged to participate in research projects with individual faculty members. Involvement in an active research program provides the student with an additional dimension of learning beyond what is assimilated in courses. A student learns to plan experiments, solve technical problems and experience scientific advances first hand. An undergraduate research project also promotes close interaction between the undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, staff and faculty. Many molecular biology majors continue their education beyond the bachelor's level by going to graduate school or to medical, dental or veterinary school. Some students choose to use their education to gain employment in biotechnology, clinical or basic research laboratories. Other career choices include teaching, medical technology, law and business. To obtain a B.S. degree in molecular biology, a student, with the aid of a molecular biology adviser, designs a program of study that includes courses from the Molecular Biology Core Requirements and Electives listed below. Additional course lists are provided as an aid in developing an individualized program of study in key Interest Areas such as Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Genetics, Computational Molecular Biology, Microbiology, and Preprofessional Health Sciences studies. Courses listed under the Interest Areas are optional and the student and adviser will design a unique curriculum suited to the student's personal interests. Flexibility in course selection also permits students to fulfill the various requirements for postgraduate and professional schools. Completion of a B.S. in Molecular Biology provides a student with the tools needed to open the door to exciting futures in science, medicine and agriculture. We expect that our graduating students will have a strong foundation in basic science, biochemistry and molecular biology that will enable them to: understand the basis of multiple molecular mechanisms central to gene expression; utilize basic molecular and microbiological laboratory techniques in future jobs or programs, and to develop a basic research project and trouble-shoot experimental challenges, especially if the student has participated in an undergraduate research project; apply for graduate programs in molecular biology, microbiology or other life sciences; begin employment as a laboratory research assistant in academia or the medical or agricultural biotechnology industries; utilize a background in biochemistry, cell and molecular biology to promote success in the basic science curriculum in medical school or other health professional schools; integrate a background in biochemistry, cell and molecular biology into career development in professions such as law, genetic counseling, or public health policy; employ evidence-based scientific reasoning skills in evaluating the use of molecular genetics in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of medical disorders.