Program Overview

Introduction to the B.S. in Molecular & Cellular Biology

The Department of Biological Sciences offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular & Cellular Biology (MCB), designed for students seeking to integrate coursework with an emphasis on independent laboratory research. This program is tailored for students interested in a career in biological/biomedical research and/or in medicine.

Curriculum

The biological sciences curriculum is highly flexible, allowing majors to complete three foundational courses that focus on central ideas and concepts in biology. One of these courses may be satisfied through AP/IB credit. A strong foundation in chemistry coursework is also required. Students select intermediate and advanced courses in areas that meet their interests and career goals, ensuring exposure to a broad range of topics.

Course Structure

• Foundational courses: Three courses focusing on central ideas and concepts in biology
  • One course may be satisfied through AP/IB credit
• Chemistry coursework: A strong foundation in chemistry is required
• Intermediate and advanced courses: Students select courses that align with their interests and career goals
• Laboratory skills and scientific reasoning: Taught through structured laboratory experiences
• Advanced seminar course: Emphasizes critical evaluation of the biological research literature

Honors Program

The Honors program is designed for students with a strong interest in basic research. While students completing the B.A. in biological sciences may choose to complete the Honors program, they are encouraged to consider the I-Bio or MCB degrees, for which research is an integral component. The Honors program provides an experience in independent research, as well as training in critical thinking and scientific writing.

Honors Program Requirements

• Overall GPA: 3.3
• GPA in courses that count toward the biological sciences major: 3.4
• Honors research: A minimum of 8 hours
• Oral defense of a written Honors thesis

Faculty and Research

The research and teaching interests of the faculty cover many areas of biological sciences. Ph.D. students, postdoctoral fellows, undergraduate students, and faculty work together to address exciting questions in research labs. Focused areas of research include:

• Biological clocks
• DNA replication and repair
• Epigenetics
• RNA biology
• Protein trafficking
• Vector biology
• Animal behavior
• Host-parasite interactions
• Evolution
• Paleontology
• Phylogenetics
• Primary and secondary metabolism
• Microbiology
• Speciation
• Social evolution
• Molecular ecology
• Population genetics
• Developmental biology
• Neuroscience
• Brain asymmetry, synapse formation, and plasticity
• Touch, visual, and olfactory sensory systems
• Pedagogy in the life sciences

Career Opportunities

Biological sciences majors are well-prepared for a variety of careers, including:

• Biology education
• Industry
• Government
• Medicine (nursing, medical assistant, dentistry, optometry, etc.)