BA/MA in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
Information on this page applies only to students already accepted into the BA/MA in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Biotechnology program. A new 4+1 BA in BMB and MS in Biotechnology is expected to be offered later this spring for students to begin in Fall 2026. Please check back after spring break.
Eligible BMB majors may apply during their junior year for a combined program leading to both an undergraduate degree in BMB and a master’s degree in Biotechnology. Students typically complete the combined BA/MA in five years and are well prepared for working in the biomedical research fields.
This program requires six advanced-level courses (listed below) in addition to requirements for the BA and includes two semesters of graduate-level independent research and submission of a research paper (BB 591/592).
It is highly recommended that students who are considering this BA/MA program start getting involved in undergraduate research as early as possible in their undergraduate years, e.g., as a junior.
For a more detailed listing of courses and requirements for the combined BA/MA program, please visit the undergraduate bulletin.
Please note that some forms of financial aid and scholarships will not extend to a student’s fifth year of study in the program. If you wish to discuss this possibility, please contact the Financial Assistance Office and/or scholarship-granting organization. Additionally, you may work with your academic advisor on how you can complete the program in less than five years.
BA/MA Student Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate mastery of both fundamental and advanced concepts in Biology and Chemistry, with a strong focus on the molecular biological and biochemical components of these disciplines.
- Demonstrate expertise in the scientific method, including experimental design, critical assessment of the scientific literature, and an understanding of the principles and best practices for the ethical conduct of research.
- Attain the technical and/or analytical skills required for employment or post-graduate education in BMB or BMB-related careers, including professional careers and science education.
- Demonstrate ability to design and implement a research project and to present their research in both written and oral form.
