Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology

The Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology program at the University of California offers students a comprehensive foundation in the fundamental processes that govern life at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels. This interdisciplinary program is designed to equip students with essential knowledge and practical skills necessary for understanding biological systems, conducting research, and pursuing careers in health, science, teaching, or industry. Students will explore the structure and function of biological molecules, cellular mechanisms, genetic regulation, developmental pathways, and the intricate interactions that sustain life. The curriculum includes coursework in biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, developmental biology, and structural biology, complemented by hands-on laboratory experiences that foster critical thinking and experimental skills. The program emphasizes current scientific techniques such as microscopy, molecular cloning, DNA sequencing, and bioinformatics, preparing students for advanced research or professional pathways. Students can also engage in research projects under the guidance of faculty experts, gaining practical experience and contributing to scientific discovery. The program encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from chemistry, physics, and computer science to understand complex biological issues. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for graduate studies, medical school, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, or scientific research careers. The university's state-of-the-art facilities, active research communities, and collaborative environment provide an ideal setting for students to thrive academically and professionally. With a strong emphasis on inquiry and innovation, the Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology curriculum fosters a deep appreciation of life's diversity and complexity, inspiring students to become tomorrow's scientific leaders.

Plans 1 and 2 Requirements

MCDB offers a Masters degree in order to meet the recognized need for M.A. level graduates with an MCDB emphasis, and specifically to prepare students for research and/or administrative positions in the biotechnology industry. MCDB offers two M.A. programs: an M.A. by Thesis (Plan 1), emphasizing independent research training, and an M.A. by Exam (Plan 2), emphasizing coursework and broader academic training. Students will choose which plan to follow, with the expectation that all M.A. students will be enrolled full-time, and register for at least 12 units each quarter. Often, students on the Plan 2 track can complete the degree in one year with careful planning.

Plan 1 (Thesis)

(1) a research thesis, (2) graduate core course modules (16 units), and (3) a minimum of 30 units (core modules and elective courses) of graduate coursework.

The thesis research is conducted under the mentorship of a faculty member, who will be the Chair of the student's Thesis Committee. Once the thesis is successfully reviewed and all graduate coursework is complete, the student is ready to graduate with a M.A. Plan 1 degree.

Plan 2 (Examination)

(1) graduate core course modules (16 units), and (2) a minimum of 36 units (core modules and elective courses) of graduate coursework.

Courses

Core

• Biochemical Techniques
• Protein Biochemistry
• Experimental Strategies in Molecular Genetics
• Chromosomes and Cell Cycle
• The Cytoskeleton
• From RNA to Membranes
• Gene Regulation
• Prep & Eval of Research Proposals (Required for Ph.D. only)
• Signal Transduction
• Development

Elective

• Biochemistry Computer Laboratory
• Basic Pharmacology
• Pharmacology Laboratory I
• General Microbiology
• Neurobiology I. Cellular Organization and Biophysics of the Nervous System
• Cell Biology
• Basic Pharmacology: Molecular Pharmacology
• Pharmacology Laboratory II
• Bacterial Pathogenesis
• Bacterial Pathogenesis Laboratory
• Molecular and Cellular Immunobiology
• Angiogenesis in Health and Disease
• Neurobiology II. Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology
• Computational Methods in Biochemistry-Molecular Biology
• Molecular Virology
• Experimental Cytology and Digital Imaging
• Basic Pharmacology: Principles and Chemotherapy
• Post-translational Protein Processing
• Stem Cell Biology in Health and Disease
• Social Dimensions of Stem Cell Research
• Neurobiology III. Developmental Neurobiology

Requirements

MCDB welcomes applicants with a passion for science and desire to contribute to research. Strong academic preparation in biology, biological specialty areas (such as biochemistry, cell and developmental biology, microbiology, molecular biology, physiology, genetics and marine biology), chemistry, or physical sciences is required. Undergraduate course work should include one year each of general biology and chemistry, organic chemistry, calculus, and physics. Recommended upper division courses include biochemistry, molecular genetics and related elective courses. The Admissions Committee weighs many factors, including the undergraduate scholastic record, GRE scores, laboratory research experience, statement of purpose, and recommendation letters. In particular, research experience and the research mentor’s letter are carefully considered. Accordingly, admission is offered based on the intellectual potential, academic record and programmatic fit of each applicant.

• Statement of Purpose, Personal Achievements/Contributions, and Resume or CV (submitted in the online application)
• Three Letters of Recommendation (submitted online)
• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended (submitted online)
• GRE General test scores (preference of 70% or above in Verbal and Quantitative)
• TOEFL scores 550 Paper-Based Test (PBT), 80 Internet-Based Test (IBT) or 7 or above (if applicable) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
• Final/Official transcripts will be required for all applicants who are admitted and have indicated their intent to enroll at UC Santa Barbara by submitting a Statement of Intent to Register (SIR). UC Santa Barbara reserves the right to require official transcripts at any time during the admissions process, and rescind any offer of admission made if discrepancies between uploaded and official transcript(s) are found.
• International Applicants: Please send a pre-application email to the Committee Chair for Admissions, Professor Zach Ma (ma@lifesci.ucsb.edu), providing the following information: GRE scores, GPA, TOEFL score, and degree objective (i.e. PhD, MA or PhD/MA).

Scholarships

MA graduate students typically receive financial support through teaching assistantships, which includes employment compensation along with payment of fees and health insurance. However, no gurantee of financial support is made at the time of admission. MA stduents on plan 1 (thesis) can arrange for graduate student researcher support with sponsoring faculty (see the section on Graduate Student Researcher support). International and domestic non-resident Masters students must cover the cost of non-resident tuition.

The Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (MCDB) program at the University of California is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental processes that govern life at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels. The program offers a multidisciplinary approach, integrating concepts from genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, and developmental biology to prepare students for careers in research, academia, industry, and healthcare. Undergraduate students enrolled in this program gain hands-on laboratory experience, critical thinking skills, and a strong foundation in scientific principles. The curriculum includes core courses such as introductory biology, molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry, complemented by specialized courses in development, physiology, and advanced molecular techniques. The university emphasizes research, encouraging students to participate in laboratory projects under faculty supervision, which fosters practical skills and an understanding of current scientific challenges. Graduates of the program often pursue graduate studies, including Master's and Ph.D. degrees, or enter professional fields like medicine, biotechnology, and pharmacology. The faculty members involved in the program are renowned researchers who actively publish and contribute to their fields, often collaborating across disciplines. The program also offers seminars, workshops, and networking opportunities, connecting students with professionals and alumni. Facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories and research equipment, facilitating innovative research and discovery. Students are supported through academic advising, mentoring, and career services, ensuring they are prepared for a variety of paths after graduation. Overall, the Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology program at the University of California stands out for its rigorous curriculum, strong research component, and commitment to fostering the next generation of scientists and health professionals.