Biological Sciences, Molecular Biology Concentration, BS

Program Overview

The BS Biological Sciences degree with a concentration in Molecular Biology equips students with a solid foundation in molecular biology and prepares them for careers in the biotechnology industry, graduate school, or professional programs. The program emphasizes hands-on laboratory experience, critical thinking, and communication skills, providing graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in various fields related to molecular biology.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The BS Biological Sciences, concentration in Molecular Biology degree, offered by the Department of Biological Sciences, prepares students for careers in the biotechnology industry including research, drug development, marketing, and management, for graduate or professional school (PhD, MD, other health science-related programs), and for patent law. The program includes a strong theoretical background as well as intensive hands-on laboratory experience.

Objectives:

• To provide students with a strong foundation in the biological sciences with a focus on molecular biology.
• To prepare students for careers in the biotechnology industry or for graduate or professional school.
• To develop students' critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Program Description:

The BS Biological Sciences, concentration in Molecular Biology degree program consists of 42 units of major coursework, including 28 units of core courses and 14 units of major electives. The core courses provide students with a foundation in the fundamental principles of biology, including cell biology, genetics, molecular biology, and biochemistry. The major electives allow students to tailor their program to their specific interests and career goals.

Outline:

Course Schedule:

The BS Biological Sciences, concentration in Molecular Biology degree program is a four-year program. The following is a sample course schedule:

• Year 1:
• BIOL 100W - Scientific Communication Workshop
• BIOL 155 - Hypothesis Testing
• PHYS 2A - Fundamentals of Physics
• PHYS 2B - Fundamentals of Physics
• MATH 30 - Calculus I
• Year 2:
• BIOL 30 - Principles of Biology I
• BIOL 31 - Principles of Biology II
• BIOL 115 - General Genetics
• BIOL 116 - Molecular Genetics
• BIOL 116L - Molecular Genetics Laboratory
• Year 3:
• BIOL 135A - Eukaryotic Cell and Molecular Biology I
• BIOL 135B - Eukaryotic Cell and Molecular Biology II
• BIOL 135L - Molecular Cell Biology Lab
• Major Electives
• Year 4:
• Major Electives
• BIOL 198 - Undergraduate Research (1-4 units required)

Individual Modules with Descriptions:

• BIOL 100W - Scientific Communication Workshop
• This course provides students with the skills necessary to communicate scientific information effectively in both written and oral form.
• BIOL 155 - Hypothesis Testing
• This course introduces students to the principles of hypothesis testing and experimental design.
• PHYS 2A - Fundamentals of Physics
• This course provides students with a foundation in the fundamental principles of physics, including mechanics, heat, and electricity.
• PHYS 2B - Fundamentals of Physics
• This course continues the study of fundamental principles of physics, including waves, optics, and modern physics.
• MATH 30 - Calculus I
• This course introduces students to the fundamental principles of calculus, including limits, derivatives, and integrals.
• BIOL 30 - Principles of Biology I
• This course provides students with a foundation in the fundamental principles of biology, including cell biology, genetics, and evolution.
• BIOL 31 - Principles of Biology II
• This course continues the study of fundamental principles of biology, including ecology, animal behavior, and plant biology.
• BIOL 115 - General Genetics
• BIOL 135A - Eukaryotic Cell and Molecular Biology I
• This course provides students with a foundation in the structure and function of eukaryotic cells, including cell membrane, cytoplasm, and nucleus.
• BIOL 135B - Eukaryotic Cell and Molecular Biology II
• This course continues the study of eukaryotic cell structure and function, including cell signaling, cell cycle, and apoptosis.
• BIOL 135L - Molecular Cell Biology Lab
• This course provides students with hands-on experience in molecular cell biology techniques, including cell culture, microscopy, and flow cytometry.

Assessment:

Students in the BS Biological Sciences, concentration in Molecular Biology degree program are assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Exams
• Quizzes
• Homework assignments
• Lab reports
• Presentations
• Research projects

Teaching:

The BS Biological Sciences, concentration in Molecular Biology degree program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are experts in their field. The faculty use a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures
• Discussions
• Labs
• Field trips
• Research projects

Careers:

Graduates of the BS Biological Sciences, concentration in Molecular Biology degree program are prepared for a variety of careers in the biotechnology industry, including:

• Research scientist
• Drug development scientist
• Marketing manager
• Management consultant
• Patent attorney
Graduates are also prepared for graduate or professional school in the fields of biology, medicine, and law.