Biology Cell and Molecular Biology Specialization

Cell and molecular biology (CMB) is the study of what cells are, how they are put together, what makes them work, what makes them differ from each other, how they associate and interact, and what goes wrong in disease states. The study of cell and molecular biology facilitates understanding of a wide variety of disciplines including genetics, developmental biology, microbiology, immunology and physiology. The emphasis in CMB is designed for students with interests in the cellular and molecular basics of life and the application of molecular techniques to medical, technological and environmental issues. The goal of the CMB specialization is to prepare graduates to be competitive in applications for entry into graduate degree programs, professional programs, or technical /industrial jobs. A full year of physics (PHYS 111/112/113 + labs or PHYS 181/182/183 + labs) is recommended for students interested in cell and molecular biology.

Students interested in microbiology are eligible to become registered microbiologists (National Registry of Microbiologists, American Academy of Microbiology) upon completing the following requirements:

1. A minimum of a baccalaureate degree in biological science with 30 quarter credits in microbiology courses.
2. Acceptable experience equivalent to one year of full-time work in a microbiology laboratory related to the specialty area in which certification is sought. Experience must have been gained within the immediate past three years. Certification as a conditional registrant is offered to individuals who possess the academic qualifications for registered microbiologist, but who lack the required year of full-time laboratory experience.