MS in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology & Biochemistry

The MS in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology & Biochemistry (MCBB) is designed to provide a solid foundation in these three interdisciplinary fields through coursework, seminars, and research. There are three paths to the MS: the coursework track, the research thesis track, and the scholarly paper track. Research-based theses are based on original research performed in a faculty member’s laboratory. Scholarly papers comprise a comprehensive review of a defined scientific field, as supervised by a faculty member. Students who choose the coursework track take additional elective courses in place of research or literature review units. The primary goal of the program is to propel students into successful careers in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. The program accepts post-bachelor’s applicants with degrees in disciplines related to biology, chemistry, biotechnology, biochemistry, or another relevant field.

Learning Outcomes

• Acquire thorough understanding of knowledge in molecular biology, cell biology, and biochemistry.
• Acquire laboratory and critical-thinking skills in the biological sciences.
• Follow the prescribed ethics for appropriate behavior in the scientific discipline.
• Be prepared to enter the job market.

Requirements

For details on requirements for grade point averages, annual reports, and responsible conduct in research, please see the MCBB Graduate Program Guide. The entire program should be completed within one to three years. The 32 units of coursework required for the MS are distributed as follows:

Two terms of Molecular Biology

• CAS BI 552 Molecular Biology 1 (4 units)
• CAS BI 553 Molecular Biology 2 (4 units) or CAS BI 753 Advanced Molecular Biology (4 units)

One term of Cell Biology

Options include:

• CAS BB 522 Molecular Biology Laboratory (4 units)
• CAS BI 551 Biology of Stem Cells (4 units)
• CAS BI 572 Advanced Genetics (4 units)
• CAS BI 576 Carcinogenesis (4 units)
• CAS BI 610 Developmental Biology (4 units)
• CAS BI 681 Molecular Biology of the Neuron (4 units)
• CAS BI 735 Advanced Cell Biology (4 units)

Two terms of Biochemistry

• CAS BB 621 Biochemistry 1 (4 units)
• CAS BB 622 Biochemistry 2 (4 units)

Two classes with a laboratory component

Options include:

• CAS BB 522 Molecular Biology Laboratory (4 units)
• CAS BB 621/622 Biochemistry 1/2 (4 units/4 units)
• CAS BI 513 Genetics Laboratory (4 units)
• CAS CH 524 Chemical Biology Laboratory (4 units)

Minimum of 4–12 units of elective courses and/or research units, chosen in consultation with the student’s advisor

Language Requirement

There is no foreign language requirement for this degree.

Thesis/Review Paper

Master’s with a Research Thesis

For a research MS, a thesis describing the student’s original research is required, which will be evaluated and approved by the MS committee. The MS committee for the research degree consists of at least three faculty, at least two of whom must be members of the MCBB program. No formal defense is required.

Master’s with a Scholarly Review Paper

For a non-research MS, a scholarly review paper covering a topic agreed upon with the student’s advisor is required. The paper is evaluated and requires approval from the student’s MS committee, consisting of at least two faculty who are members of the MCBB program. Students normally enroll in CAS MB 701/702 as units for scholarly thesis work.

Master’s with Coursework

The MCBB master’s in the coursework track does not require a research thesis or scholarly review paper. Students will fulfill their requirements through 32 units of coursework.

Additional Information

Fall entry only.

Admissions Information

Please visit our admissions page for information about application requirements and deadlines.