Biomolecular Engineering

Bachelor of Science in Biomolecular Engineering at the University of California offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary education that integrates principles from biology, chemistry, and engineering to address complex challenges in health, agriculture, and the environment. The program is designed to prepare students for innovative careers in research, development, and industry by equipping them with a solid foundation in molecular biology, biochemistry, systems biology, and engineering design. Students will explore key topics such as genetic engineering, protein engineering, bioprocessing, and biomaterials, gaining hands-on experience through laboratory work and research projects. The curriculum emphasizes the application of engineering principles to solve biological problems, fostering skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and technical communication. Opportunities for undergraduate research, internships, and collaboration with industry partners are integral parts of the programme, providing real-world experience and networking opportunities. Graduates of this program are well-positioned for careers in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, agricultural technology, and environmental sustainability, or for further study in graduate or professional schools. The programme is tailored to ensure students are prepared to contribute to advances in biomolecular applications and to address pressing global issues through innovative engineering solutions. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, practical skills, and ethical considerations, the Bachelor of Science in Biomolecular Engineering at the University of California prepares students to become leaders in the rapidly evolving life sciences sector.

Both masters and doctoral students must complete seven, 5-credit courses and one 3-credit research and teaching course. In addition, M.S. students must complete three seminar courses, while Ph.D. students must complete five seminar courses. M.S. students must also complete one independent study (course 297), and Ph.D. students must complete three research laboratory rotations (course 296) with different supervisors. Lab rotations for Ph.D. students are generally completed in the first two quarters (three 7-week rotations).  Ph.D students must also complete one 3-credit scientific writing course in their second year.

Core courses (5-credit) six are required

Bioinformatics Emphasis

• BME 205, Bioinformatics Models and Algorithms

• Two Biomolecular Engineering graduate courses from the bioinformatics list

• One Biomolecular Engineering graduate course from the biomolecular engineering list

• One graduate statistics course (Applied Mathematics and Statistics 206B recommended)

• One graduate course from MCD Biology, Chemistry and Biochemistry, or Microbiology and Environmental Toxicology

Biomolecular Engineering Emphasis

• Two Biomolecular Engineering graduate course from the biomolecular engineering list

• One Biomolecular Engineering graduate courses from the bioinformatics list

• Two graduate courses from Applied Mathematics and Statistics, MCD Biology, Chemistry and Biochemistry, or Microbiology and Environmental Toxicology

Ethics Course (5-credit) one is required

• *BME 80G, Bioethics in the Twenty-First Century: Science, Business, and Society

• Sociology 268A, Science and Justice: Experiments in Collaboration.

*BME 80G can be taken to meet the ethics requirement, however, the credits will not be counted toward the overall credit requirement for the M.S. or Ph.D. since it is a lower-division course.

Electives

No electives are required. However, with faculty guidance students often choose to take upper-division undergraduate courses or graduate courses outside the department to make up for deficiencies in background areas of particular importance.

With consent of the graduate director, variations in the composition of the required courses may be approved.

Other Curriculum Requirements

• BME 200, Research and Teaching in Bioinformatics, 3 credits

Seminars

M.S. students: a minimum of three seminar courses, including at least one quarter of the 2-credit Biomolecular Engineering seminar, 280B

Research Experience

M.S. students: one quarter of independent study (BME 297).

Course Lists

The following are the bioinformatics and biomolecular engineering course lists. The lists are subject to change as courses and course content changes. The graduate office maintains the current list.

• Bioinformatics list: 205, 211, 230, 235
• Biomolecular Engineering list: 215, 233, 255

Masters Capstone Requirement

M.S. students must complete a one-quarter research project with written report to fulfill the capstone requirement. In consultation with the faculty adviser, the student forms a Master’s Capstone Reading Committee of at least two faculty members (including the adviser), each of whom is provided a copy of the project report. The final project report must be signed by the reading committee before the award of the Master of Science Degree.

Requirements

• Transcripts. You may upload a scanned copy of your unofficial transcripts to your online application, or send official copies to the Graduate Application Processing address
• Statement of Purpose. Recommended length is a concise 2-4 pages, single-spaced.
• The Personal History Statement is required of all applicants.This statement will be used in conjunction with your application for graduate admission and financial support. Please note that the Personal History Statement should not duplicate the Statement of Purpose.
• A résumé is required for some applications and optional for others.
• All recommendation letters are required to be submitted electronically through the online application.  You must register a minimum of three recommenders, and as many as five, via the Recommendations page of the online application.
• The application fee for the 2016-17 academic year is $105 for domestic applicants and $125 for international applicants. This fee can be paid by credit card or e-check (the e-check option is only available if you have a U.S. bank account). 
• Official GRE scores must be sent from the Educational Testing Service (ETS) to UC Santa Cruz, School Code 4860 (no department code necessary).  Official scores must be received prior to the application deadline.
• If you are a non-native English speaker you will be required to take an English language competency exam.  UC Santa Cruz accepts the TOEFL or IELTS test.  Official scores must also be sent from the testing service to UC Santa Cruz, School Code 4860

Scholarships

• Regents Fellowships. A limited number of these fellowships are awarded to first-year graduate students in master's and doctoral programs. These awards provide a stipend and/or payment of university fees except non-resident tuition.
• Global Education

The Biomolecular Engineering program at the University of California offers a comprehensive curriculum focused on the intersection of biology, chemistry, physics, and engineering principles to develop innovative solutions in healthcare, biotechnology, and environmental sectors. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in research, development, and applied sciences, emphasizing hands-on laboratory experience, interdisciplinary collaboration, and cutting-edge technologies.

Students enrolled in the program engage in coursework covering molecular and cellular biology, biochemistry, genetic engineering, protein design, systems biology, and bioprocess engineering. The curriculum also includes applied topics such as bioinformatics, computational modeling, and nanotechnology, ensuring graduates are proficient in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills relevant to modern biomolecular engineering challenges.

The program boasts access to state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with modern instrumentation for molecular analysis, genetic modification, and bioprocess development. Students participate in research projects under faculty mentorship, often collaborating with industry partners and participating in internships to gain real-world experience. The program encourages innovation and entrepreneurship, providing resources and support for students interested in starting biotech ventures or pursuing graduate studies.

Graduates of the Biomolecular Engineering program are well-prepared for diverse careers in pharmaceuticals, biotech companies, healthcare institutions, and academic research. They can also pursue advanced degrees in related fields such as medicine, bioinformatics, or molecular biology. The university fosters an inclusive academic environment, promoting diversity and collaboration among students and faculty from various backgrounds.

Overall, the program emphasizes the translation of biological research into practical applications, addressing pressing health and environmental issues through engineering solutions. With a focus on experimental techniques, computational tools, and ethical considerations, students gain a holistic education that prepares them for the dynamic landscape of biomolecular engineering.