The Cellular, Molecular, and Developmental Track provides a broad background in biology, with a focus on the molecular, cellular, and integrative mechanisms by which organisms regulate life processes. Students will learn about the molecular and cellular mechanisms that provide the basis for biological structure, growth, evolution, embryonic development, and genetic inheritance. Students will understand how eukaryotic cells process information from their environment and initiate programs of gene expression leading to growth, development, and functional specification.
A degree in biology with an emphasis in Cellular, Molecular, and Development will prepare students for a career in the life sciences, whether they are interested in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying cell growth, or the complex patterns of organismal development. This can help prepare students for a career in academic or industrial research, biotechnology, genetic engineering, or any of the health professions.
12 upper-level guided elective hours out of the required 13- 15 hours of guided electives must be completed from the courses listed below. Of those 12 hours, a maximum of 3 hours can be independent research (BIO 394 /BIO 395 /BIO 397 ). The remaining 1-3 credit hours may come from the list of approved electives for the general biology track, which may include an additional 3 hours of independent research (BIO 394 /BIO 395 /BIO 397 ). A maximum of 6 credit hours of independent research can be counted toward the Biology degree. Of the 13-15 hours of total upper-level electives required, 9 credit hours must have a BIO prefix.