Program Overview

Molecular Biology Fundamentals

Program Overview

This certificate is designed to provide hands-on laboratory experience in molecular biology techniques for students with a strong biology theory background who hope to pursue careers in scientific research. It includes instruction in basic lab skills as executed in a regulated workplace. Molecular biology skills emphasized include the basics of recombinant DNA technology, traditional PCR, quantitative PCR, RNA isolation, RT-PCR and primer design. An introduction to CRISPR is included.

Program Details

• Program Number: CERT
• Degree: Certificate
• Area of Study: Science, Math and Natural Resources
• Delivery Method: 100% In Person
• Estimated Time to Complete: 7 Credits | Finish in 1 year
• Estimated Program Cost: $1,417.30

Curriculum and Experience

• First Term Course:
  • Molecular Biology 1 (3 credits)
  • Complete one of the following courses:
    • Biology for Innovators (1 credit)
    • Biotechnology Laboratory Skills for a Regulated Workplace (3 credits)
• Second Term Courses:
  • Research Methods in Molecular Biology (3 credits)

Admission

• Application Dates:
  • Fall 2025: Application open, deadline October 15, 2025
  • Spring 2026: Application available September 15, 2025, deadline March 15, 2026
• Admission Requirements:
  • Official transcripts must be sent from the institutions you attended and indicate one of the following with a C or better:
    • Introductory Zoology
    • Botany
    • Cellular and Molecular Biology
  • The course requirements above can be waived by the program director if a student has comparable coursework.
• Additional Notes:
  • Certificate programs are not eligible for financial aid
  • Class capacity is limited and is available on a first come, first served basis
  • Students who have already completed the certificate coursework at the time of application will receive the certificate diploma at the end of the term of application

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