Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (MS)

Graduate Committee
Drs. Melissa Teoh and Moorthy Palanimuthu Ponnusamy (co-directors), Mohan Krishnan, Sushil Kumar, Imay Lakshmanan, and Sarathy Seshacharyulu.

The Master of Science in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology program provides an opportunity for individuals desiring careers in health sciences, industry, education, or research to prepare themselves for either professional studies or positions demanding mastery of science beyond the baccalaureate level. Students will experience seminars and comprehensive exams that are tailored to their expected careers, as well as unique experiences in bench science with training in basic and advanced laboratory techniques used in the field of biochemistry and molecular biology.

MS Curriculum

Students pursuing the MS in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology must choose either the Non-Thesis Track or the Thesis Track. Each track consists of required courses and the opportunity to take elective courses. The number of graduate-level electives (and the specific electives courses to be taken) will vary with each student. Individual Programs of Study will be designed for each student by their Advisory Committee with the approval of the Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Master's Program Graduate Committee.

The Non-Thesis Track is a 12-month program with an emphasis on coursework and experiences that will prepare the students for careers other than independent research. Students will experience seminars and comprehensive exams that are tailored to their expected careers, as well as unique experiences in bench science with training in basic and advanced laboratory techniques used in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

The Thesis Track generally requires full-time enrollment for a minimum of 2 years. The emphasis of this track is on research and development of independent hypothesis and critical reasoning skills. For this track only, a part-time graduate assistantship and tuition waiver may be available after joining a laboratory.

Coursework (Non-Thesis Track)

Coursework (Thesis Track)