Biology — Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology Concentration

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Are you interested in the molecules, structures, and compartments that make up cells?
Do you find yourself wondering how a seed becomes a plant, or how your neurons work?
Do you enjoy the detective work of unraveling molecular and cellular mechanisms?
Are you interested in learning the research techniques that fuel biotechnological or biomedical research?

The Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (MCDB) concentration focuses upon the biological molecules that make up cells, their interactions, and how these molecular and cellular interactions underpin ecology, evolution, and development of organisms. This concentration is anchored by a course in techniques for isolating, manipulating, and analyzing DNA, preparing you for advanced coursework and for joining faculty research labs. You will also take two additional courses associated with the MCDB concentration, including another 300- or 400-level lab. You will build the rest of your personalized curriculum around your interests, with guidance from your academic advisor. Students interested in this concentration may wish to consider additional coursework in organic chemistry and biochemistry. This degree will prepare you for basic and applied research in molecular, cellular, and/or developmental biology, whether applied to biomedical, agricultural, environmental, or other questions in the life sciences. A diploma granted under this concentration will indicate “Bachelor of Science;” official transcripts will indicate Biology – Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology Concentration.

Requirements (20 credits minimum)

Required lab (4 credits)

❑ BIOL 324 - Methods in Molecular Biology w/lab Credits: 4

Depth requirements (6 credits minimum)

Meet with your academic advisor to discuss options that align with your interests to fill the depth requirements.

❑ One additional 300- or 400-level biology laboratory or lecture/laboratory course associated with the MCDB concentration, from the list of electives.

❑ One additional 300- or 400-level course associated with the MCDB concentration, from the list of electives.

Visit the Biology degrees and areas of study webpage for more information about 300- and 400-level courses associated with each concentration.

Electives (11 credits minimum)

❑ Additional courses from the list of electives to complete 20 credits. Courses not on the list may be taken with permission from your academic advisor. Courses from other departments may be taken if that department and your academic advisor approve.

Notes:

Up to 4 cumulative credits of BIOL 300, BIOL 400, BIOL 490, BIOL 496, and BIOL 498, in which students receive training from faculty in research or teaching, or pursue internships, are permitted to count towards the concentration.

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