Program Overview

Molecular and Cellular Biology, PhD

Program Description

The Doctor of Philosophy program in molecular and cellular biology emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches in fundamental and highly applied molecular and cellular biology to answer basic and translational research questions. Students can tailor the program to their interests while gaining skills in the most innovative approaches and techniques.

At a Glance

• College/school: The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
• Location: Tempe
• STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes

Degree Requirements

The program requires 84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive exam, a prospectus, and a dissertation.

• Required Core (6 credit hours)
  • MCB 555 Advanced Molecular and Cellular Sciences (3)
  • MCB 556 Advanced Molecular and Cellular Biology II (3)
• Electives or Research (54 credit hours)
• Other Requirements (12 credit hours)
  • BIO 543 Molecular Genetics and Genomics (3)
  • BIO 610 Introduction to Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) in Life Sciences (1)
  • MCB 501 Seminar: Molecular and Cellular Biology Colloquium (8)
• Culminating Experience (12 credit hours)
  • MCB 799 Dissertation (12)
• Additional Curriculum Information Students take MCB 501 eight times for one credit hour each. Courses listed under Other Requirements may be substituted with approval of the academic unit.

Admission Requirements

• General university admission requirements: All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
• Applicants must have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in the biological sciences, biochemistry, or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution.
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
• Application materials:
  1. Graduate admission application and application fee
  2. Official transcripts
  3. Academic record form
  4. Personal statement
  5. Curriculum vitae or resume
  6. Three letters of recommendation
  7. Proof of English proficiency
• Research experience is a desired qualification.

Tuition Information

When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.

Application Deadlines

• Fall: Session A/C, In Person, Deadline: 11/15, Type: Final

Program Learning Outcomes

Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program’s learning outcomes include the following:

• Able to review the literature relevant to the research question in molecular and cellular biology that they address in their dissertation.
• Able to execute a research plan of their own design that addresses a significant scientific question about molecular and cellular biology.
• Able to communicate the rationale and results of their research, both orally and in writing.

Career Opportunities

Graduates hold positions as researchers and leaders in nongovernmental organizations, biotech and pharma, and in federal and state agencies.

• Career examples:
  • Faculty member at a university or college
  • Leader of a nonprofit organization
  • Principal investigator or leader in a private, government, or industrial lab

STEM-OPT for International Students

This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months. This OPT work authorization period may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website. The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing a degree through ASU Online.