Molecular Biology and Genetics

Molecular Biology and Genetics at Bilkent University offers a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with an in-depth understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying biological processes. This program combines rigorous coursework, cutting-edge laboratory work, and research opportunities to prepare students for careers in academia, industry, and healthcare. Students will explore fundamental topics such as DNA replication, transcription, translation, genetic engineering, and genomics, alongside advanced subjects like bioinformatics, molecular diagnostics, and personalized medicine. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, experimental design, and data analysis skills, enabling graduates to contribute to scientific discovery and innovation.

Throughout the program, students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, which support hands-on learning and experimentation. They are encouraged to participate in research projects, internships, and collaborations with faculty members who are experts in their fields. The program also emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations and the societal impact of genetic research, fostering responsible scientific practices.

Graduates of the Molecular Biology and Genetics program are well-prepared for diverse career paths, including research and development, genetic counseling, biotechnology industries, pharmaceuticals, and further academic study. The program aims to cultivate a new generation of scientists capable of addressing global challenges related to health, environment, and agriculture through innovative genetic solutions. With its strong foundation in molecular sciences and extensive practical training, the program at Bilkent University offers students an excellent opportunity to become leaders in the rapidly evolving field of genetics and molecular biology.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline 2014-2015 Academic Year Spring Semester, beginning on 2 February 2015, will be open between 15 October - 15 December 2014; 2015-2016 Academic Year Fall Semester, beginning in mid-September 2015, will be open between 15 October 2014 - 16 July 2015 Tuition fee

• USD 13950 Year (International)

The annual tuition for international students beginning their program in September 2014 is 13,950 US Dollars (includes 8% VAT). Tuition fees are collected in two equal installments at the beginning of the Fall and Spring semesters. Tuition fees are payable in US Dollars only.

Start date February,September 2015 Duration full-time 48 months Languages Take an IELTS test

• English

Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Full-time More information Go To The Course Website

Course Content

UNDERGRADUATE CURRICULUM

FIRST YEAR

Autumn Semester

• Principles of Chemistry I
• English and Composition I
• Orientation
• Calculus I
• Biology I
• Turkish I

Spring Semester

• Principles of Chemistry II
• English and Composition II
• Calculus II
• Biology II
• Turkish II

SECOND YEAR

Autumn Semester

• Principles of Organic Chemistry I
• Introduction to Computing for Engineers
• Collegiate Activities Program I
• History of Turkey
• Genetics
• General Physics I

Spring Semester

• Introduction to Programming for Engineers
• Collegiate Activities Program II
• Statistical Methodology
• Molecular Genetics
• General Physics II

THIRD YEAR

Autumn Semester

• Cultures Civilizations and Ideas I
• Molecular Biology of the Cell I
• Biochemistry I
• Molecular Biology of the Gene
• Introduction to Bioinformatics

Spring Semester

• Cultures Civilizations and Ideas II
• Molecular Biology of the Cell II
• Biochemistry II
• Physiology
• Microbiology

FOURTH YEAR

Autumn Semester

• Summer Practice
• Science and Ethics
• Senior Project I
• Restricted Elective
• Technical Elective
• Technical Elective

Spring Semester

• Genomics
• Non Technical Electives (2)
• Restricted Elective
• Technical Elective

RESTRICTED ELECTIVES

• Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology
• Immunology
• Membrane Biology
• Introduction to Stem Cells
• Biomolecules, Biomaterials and Bioprocesses
• Introduction to Computational Biology
• Molecular Basis of Evolution
• Cell Cycle and Apoptosis
• Protein Chemistry
• Computational Approaches to Biology
• Developmental Biology
• DNA Damage and Repair Mechanisms
• Special Techniques in Molecular Genetics
• Introduction to Human Genetics
• Genetics and Biology of Cancer
• Senior Project II

MINOR PROGRAM

MBG minor program aims to provide introductory knowledge in life sciences with the selected emphasis on Molecular Biology and Genetics. The curriculum in the minor program provides a foundation in basic areas with the following aspects; the structure and expression of genes, biochemistry of proteins, cell signaling, development, the basis of inherited diseases, molecular biology of cancer, biotechnology, genomics and bioinformatics. Students are required to take four fundamental courses. "Biology I and II" provide essential knowledge about molecules of the life, central dogma, DNA, RNA, proteins, organization of the cell, and embryogenesis and genetic diseases.

These courses also provide an introduction to cell division and differentiation, molecular biology methods, recombinant DNA technology, and biotechnology, which help prepare the students for advanced courses. The "Principles of Genetics" course covers Mendelian genetics, theory of inheritance, genetic mapping, and population genetics topics in general. Finally, "Molecular Biology of the Cell" investigates how the molecular mechanisms, which are studied in the other courses, serve the cells.

These courses will supply the knowledge for the minor candidates who will choose two advanced courses offered from our department related to their specific interests. Additional advanced courses can be selected according to the students' specific needs toward their future career. The department appoints an advisor for students in the program. All elective courses are subject to advisor approval.

Prerequisite Courses: None

CURRICULUM

Courses

Course Name

• Biology I
• Biology II
• Principles of Genetics
• Molecular Biology of the Cell I
• Electives (2)

ELECTIVE COURSES

Course Name

• Physiology
• Introduction to Bioinformatics
• Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology
• Science and Ethics
• Genomics
• Membrane Biology
• Introduction to Stem Cells
• Biomolecules, Biomaterials and Bioprocesses
• Introduction to Computational Biology
• Molecular Basis of Evolution
• Cell Cycle and Apoptosis
• Special Techniques in Molecular Genetics
• Introduction to Human Genetics
• Genetics and Biology of Cancer

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5 TOEFL iBT® test : 87

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

take an IELTS test.

Requirements

International students, who had graduated or are expecting to graduate from a High School equivalent to Turkish High Schools in Turkey, can apply to Bilkent University. All International applicants who are applying for full-time undergraduate degree programs are required to fill out the following application form at:

Online Application Form

The applications for:

• 2014-2015 Academic Year Spring Semester, beginning on 2 February 2015, will be open between 15 October - 15 December 2014
• 2015-2016 Academic Year Fall Semester, beginning in mid-September 2015, will be open between 15 October 2014 - 16 July 2015

How to complete your online application:

Step 1: Obtain a login ID and password

Step 2: Fill out the personal information part and upload the personal information page of your passport.

Step 3: Fill out the family Information part. All students who would like to be considered for partial tuition wavier recipients are recommended to fill out this part.

Step 4:REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Bilkent accepts the photocopies of exams/diplomas and certificates listed below for application. In the absence of national or international exams, high school graduation score can be evaluated for admission. Scanned copies of Turkish or English translation of the high school diploma and official transcript along with the explanation of the high school’s grading system should be submitted for application.

• - In the SAT I, a total score of at least 1000 out of 1600 (in the combined Critical Reading and Math Reasoning tests), depending on the department to which application is made.
• - In the General Certificate Education (GCE), including Cambridge International A Level, at least three A level scores, one of which is received in the particular subject area of the program applied for.
• - In the ACT examination, a minimum score of 24 in Mathematics, Science and Composite.
• - In the TQDK examination, a minimum score of 450 out of 700 in "Group II-III-IV" and a minimum score of 550 out of 700 in "Group I".
• - In the Baccalaureate Libanais examinations given in Lebanon, a diploma score of at least 14 in the Scientific Stream.
• - In the Tawjih examinations given in Jordan and Palestine, a minimum average of 85 points in all courses in the Scientific Stream.
• - In the West African Examinations Council - (International) Senior School Certificate examination (WAEC - SSCE), a maximum score of 2 in each of the six subjects, and a maximum total score of 9 from the same six subjects.
• - An International Baccalaureate diploma with a diploma score of at least 28 or higher up to 32 depending on the department to which application is made.
• - A French Baccalaureate diploma with a diploma score of at least 12.
• - ABITUR with a score of at least 4 and a minimum score of 5 out of 15 in the subjects related to the program applied for.
• - In the Libyan Al Shahada Al Thanawiya examination, a score of at least 195 in the Scientific Stream for Engineering and Science programs and at least 185 in the Social Sciences / Art Stream for other programs.
• - In the Gao Kao examination of the People's Republic of China, a score of at least 540 (It may vary according to the department applied for).
• - In Diploma Debirestan / Pisdanesgahi administered in Iran, with a score of at least 16 out of 20.
• - In the International University Test examination administered in Kazakhstan, a minimum score of 85 out of 100.
• - Gold, silver or bronze medals in the International Science Olympiads (*) recognized by TUBITAK (The Scientific and Technical Research Council of Turkey):

* (IOI) The International Olympiad in Informatics
(IBO) The International Biology Olympiad
(IPhO) The International Physics Olympiad
(IChO) The International Chemistry Olympiad
(IMO) The International Mathematical Olympiad
(JBMO) Junior Balkan Mathematical Olympiad
(BMO) Balkan Mathematical Olympiad
(BOI) Balkan Olympiad in Informatics

Step 5: ENGLISH PROFICIENCY

As Bilkent is an English medium university, students are required to meet the language requirement to be able to pursue their studies in their departments. The language requirement can be met through the submission of an exam result meeting the minimum requirements in any of the following exams as outlined below:

• TOEFL iBT, a score of at least 87
• IELTS Academic, a score of at least 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 scored in every section
• CAE, a grade of at least "C"
• FCE, a grade of at least "B"

External exam results are valid for two years. When students submit results for any of the exams mentioned above, Bilkent University School of English Language reserves the right to investigate these exam results for reliability purposes, the right to give an exam to students to check the validity of their exam results, and the right to not accept exam results that are considered to be suspicious.

If students cannot submit an exam result which meets the minimum requirements, they can take the COPE exam administered by Bilkent University after registration. Students, who cannot meet the minimum pass score in the COPE exam, will have to attend classes in the English Language Preparatory Program which is a one to two year program where they will receive 25-30 hours of classroom input every week.

PLEASE NOTE: The exam results must be sent to the university directly by the related institution. The exam results that are not sent to the university by the related institution will not be accepted.

• TOEFL should be sent directly from ETS to Bilkent University - CODE: 0620.
• IELTS should be sent directly from British Council to Bilkent University.

Step 6: List and rank your selected programs up to 5 choices. Please note that students who choose Graphic Design; Fine Arts and Music must take an aptitude test administered by the related faculties in August.

Step 7: Please write a 250-word statement of purpose describing your academic goals and reasons to study at Bilkent.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

---

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Alumni Study Travel Fund

  Scholarships for students who are already attending the University of Reading.

• Amsterdam Merit Scholarships

  The University of Amsterdam aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship.

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than Bilkent University.

Funding

Scholarships for International Students

Prospective students who apply for financial assistance are evaluated according to their high school grades, their national and/or international exam scores, and other relevant academic criteria.

Qualified applicants are offered partial or full tuition waiver scholarships. Tuition waiver scholarships are awarded at five levels, ranging from 20% to 100% in increments of 20%. Accommodation scholarships are also available for a limited number of top students who are on full tuition waiver scholarship.

Students can benefit from scholarships for maximum of 2 years in the English Preparatory Program and for a maximum of 5 years in 4-year undergraduate programs.

Students on scholarship are required to take at least the minimum course load* specified for their department each semester (excluding any withdrawn courses**, GE100, GE251 and non-credit courses) and to maintain a minimum annual GPA of 2.00/4.00. (The annual GPA is calculated as a weighted average of Fall and Spring semester grades; courses taken in the optional Summer School are also included in calculation.) English Preparatory Program students are required to qualify to take the ECA or COPE exam at the end of each course or pass COPE by the end of the academic year. Scholarships of students who fail to meet these conditions will be decreased one level and cannot be restored even if the students improve their performance. If there are no Fall or Spring semester courses within the annual GPA, students with less than 2.00 are given a warning; if these students fail to meet the required conditions at the end of the following year, their scholarships will be decreased by two levels.

Students on accommodation scholarship are required to maintain a minimum annual GPA of 2. 50/4.00. Students who fail to meet this condition will loose their accommodation scholarship.
* The minimum course load depends on the department. This information can be found in SRS ( https://stars.bilkent.edu.tr/srs/ ) under "Information Card" and "lower limit".

** The number of withdraws is irrelevant, provided that students finish the semester with the minimum course load. If a student falls one course below the minimum course load by withdrawing a course, this is also possible provided that this situation occurs only once over the fall and spring semesters combined.

Merit Scholarship

At the end of each academic year, international students who have taken at least a minimum curriculum course load (excluding any additional courses, withdrawn courses, GE 100-250-251, non-credit courses and repeated courses in Spring, already taken in Fall semester) and attained an annual grade point average of 3.30 or above, as well as being in the top 5% of all the non-scholarship students in their program, may become eligible to receive a merit scholarship for the following academic year on top of any partial tuition waiver scholarship they may already have.

The Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology and Genetics at Bilkent University offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the fundamental concepts of molecular biology, genetics, and related fields. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills through laboratory courses, research projects, and internships, aiming to prepare graduates for careers in research, healthcare, biotechnology, and academia. Students enrolled in the program have access to state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with modern instrumentation, facilitating hands-on experience in techniques such as DNA cloning, PCR, gene expression analysis, and bioinformatics. The curriculum includes core courses in cell biology, molecular genetics, biochemistry, and microbial genetics, along with electives allowing specialization in areas like genomics, proteomics, developmental biology, and bioengineering. The faculty comprises experienced scientists and researchers actively involved in cutting-edge research, providing mentorship and opportunities for undergraduate research projects. The program also encourages students to participate in seminars, workshops, and conferences to stay updated with recent advances in molecular biology and genetics. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for graduate studies or professional careers in molecular diagnostics, pharmaceuticals, agricultural biotechnology, and environmental sciences. Bilkent University’s strong collaborations with national and international research institutions enhance students’ research opportunities and global networking. The program strives to cultivate analytical thinking, scientific inquiry, and ethical responsibility in its students, fostering the development of competent scientists and informed citizens. Overall, the Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology and Genetics at Bilkent University aims to produce graduates capable of contributing significantly to scientific advancement and technological innovation in the rapidly evolving fields of molecular biology and genetics.