Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology

The Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology undergraduate program at the University of California offers students a comprehensive and in-depth education in the fundamental processes that underpin life. Designed for those interested in understanding the complex mechanisms that regulate cellular functions, genetic information flow, and organismal development, this program provides a rigorous curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory experience. Students have the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics, including molecular genetics, cell biology, biochemistry, developmental biology, and biological imaging techniques. The program emphasizes critical thinking, experimental skills, and scientific communication, preparing graduates for careers in biomedical research, healthcare, biotechnology, or for continuing their education in graduate or professional schools. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and close mentorship from faculty researchers, students engage in original research projects, attend seminars, and participate in collaborative laboratory work. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect the latest advancements in molecular and developmental biology, ensuring that students are well-equipped with current knowledge and skills. Additionally, the program encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating aspects of genetics, biophysics, and computational biology to provide a well-rounded scientific foundation. Graduates of this program often go on to pursue impactful careers in academia, industry, or healthcare, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and development of new therapies for a variety of diseases. The university’s vibrant academic community and extensive alumni network offer valuable opportunities for professional growth and networking. Whether students aim to become cutting-edge researchers, healthcare professionals, or scientific innovators, this program provides the essential training and resources necessary to succeed in the rapidly evolving fields of molecular, cellular, and developmental biology.

Complete the graduate core course:

• BIOL 200A, Critical Analysis of Scientific Literature (to be completed in the first year)
• BIOL 289, Practice of Science

Enroll in the seminar series each quarter, Biology 291 and 292

Complete two (2) approved advanced electives (list below). The two electives may be completed in either the first or second year

Write a master’s thesis based on original research. (A scholarly dissertation of the literature and progress on research project. A peer-reviewed publication is not required for graduation.)

Present a thesis defense in a departmental seminar. The student will present their research project in a public venue such as a departmental seminar or one of the research clubs (RNA club, chromatin club, neuro club etc.). 

Approved Graduate Electives (Ph.D. and M.A. students complete two)

• BIOL 200B, Advanced Molecular Biology or,
• BIOL 200C, Advanced Cell Biology or,
• BIOL 200D, Advanced Developmental
• BIOL 201, RNA Processing
• BIOL 203, Ribosomes and Translation
• BIOL 204, Chromatin and Transcription
• BIOL 205, Epigenetics
• BIOL 206, Introduction to Stem Cell Biology
• BIOL 206L, Current Protocols in Stem Cell Biology
• BIOL 207, Population Genetics
• BIOL 208, Cellular Signaling Mechanisms
• BIOL 214, Advances in Cancer Biology
• BIOL 215, Applied Statistics for Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology
• BIOL 226, Advanced Neuroscience
• BIOL 228, Developmental Neurobiology (new class)
• AMS156, Linear Regression*
• AMS202, Linear Models*
• AMS205B, Intermediate Classical Interference*
• AMS256, Linear Statistical Models*
• BME110, Computational Biology Tools
• BME130, Genomes
• BME210, Applications and Analysis of Microarrays
• BME220, Bioinformatics
• BME230, Computational Genomics
• BME237, Applied RNA Bioinformatics
• Chem200A, Advanced Biochem: Biophysical Methods
• Chem200B, Advanced Biochem: Protein Structure and Function
• Chem200C, Advanced Biochem: Structure and Function of Nucleic Acids
• Chem238, Topics in Biophysical Chemistry/Grant Writing
• EE215, Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) Design
• METX202, Cellular and Molecular Toxicology
• METX206A, Advanced Microbiology
• METX210, Bacterial Pathogenesis 

*Students who have had no or very little statistics should audit or take AMS 7 (5 credits) and perhaps also AMS 7L (2 credits) to learn the basics, before taking one of the graduate-level courses.

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 Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology program at the University of California offers students a comprehensive education in the fundamental aspects of biological sciences, focusing on the molecular mechanisms that govern cell function, development, and genetic inheritance. This undergraduate major provides a strong foundation in biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, cell biology, and developmental biology, preparing students for careers in research, medicine, biotechnology, and related fields. The curriculum includes courses in molecular genetics, biochemistry, cell structure and function, developmental biology, and advanced laboratory techniques, enabling students to gain practical skills and hands-on experience. Students have access to cutting-edge laboratories and research facilities, fostering an environment of innovation and inquiry. The program encourages active participation in research projects, often in collaboration with faculty members who are leading experts in their fields. This experiential learning component is essential for students aiming to pursue graduate studies or careers in biomedical research and healthcare. Additionally, the program offers interdisciplinary courses and seminars that explore the latest developments in molecular and cellular biology, ensuring students stay current with scientific advances. The university's strong ties to biotech and pharmaceutical industries provide additional opportunities for internships and cooperative education programs. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for advanced study in graduate or professional schools or entering the workforce directly in biomedical research, healthcare, or biotech industries. Emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking, experimental design skills, and scientific communication, which are vital for success in scientific careers. The program also promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion within the scientific community, encouraging students from diverse backgrounds to pursue careers in biological sciences. Overall, the Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology program at UC is designed to cultivate the next generation of scientists who will contribute to understanding life's processes and addressing global biological challenges.