UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS URBANA-CHAMPAIGN · UNITED STATES
Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts and Sciences in Molecular & Cellular Biology
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- 120 hoursTotal Credit Hours for Graduation
- 67-71 hoursMajor and Supporting Coursework
- 21 hours300-/400-level Courses in Major
- 12 hours300-/400-level Courses in Major (on-campus)
- Multiple specialization tracksFocus Areas within MCB
- Undergraduate Research OpportunitiesResearch Emphasis
The Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts and Sciences (BSLAS) in Molecular & Cellular Biology program offers a comprehensive foundation in key biological sciences. You will gain in-depth knowledge of molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, cellular biology, biochemistry, physiology, and structural biology, complemented by a strong background in chemistry, mathematics, and physical sciences. The curriculum allows for specialization within various areas, including biochemistry, cells and tissues, developmental biology, infection and immunity, microbiology, genetics, neurobiology, and physiology. An advising program is available to help students tailor their advanced coursework to their specific interests and career goals.
Curriculum
The program requires 120 credit hours, including a minimum of 67-71 hours in major and supporting coursework. A significant portion, 21 hours, must be at the 300- or 400-level within the major, with 12 of these hours completed on campus. Students must also fulfill campus-wide General Education requirements and a language requirement, which involves completing the fourth semester or equivalent of a language other than English.
- Year 1
- General Chemistry I & LabCHEM 102/103
- Calculus IMATH 220 or MATH 221
- Organismal & Evolutionary BiologyIB 150
- Molecular & Cellular Basis of LifeMCB 150
- Composition I
- Year 2
- General Chemistry II & LabCHEM 104/105
- Elementary Organic Chemistry I & LabCHEM 232/233
- Calculus II or BiostatisticsMATH 231 or STAT 212
- College Physics: Mech & Heat and E&M & ModernPHYS 101/102
- Molecular GeneticsMCB 250
- Exp Techniqs in Molecular BiolMCB 251
- Cells, Tissues & DevelopmentMCB 252
- Exp Techniqs in Cellular BiolMCB 253
- Year 3
- Biochem & Phys Basis of LifeMCB 354
- Advanced MCB Courses (300-400 level)
- University Requirements (Humanities, Social Sciences, etc.)
- Year 4
- Additional Advanced MCB Courses (300-400 level)
- University Requirements
Careers
A degree in Molecular & Cellular Biology prepares graduates for a wide range of scientific and health-related careers. The strong analytical and research skills developed in this program are valuable in academic, industrial, and governmental settings.
- Research Scientist
- Laboratory Technician
- Biotechnologist
- Medical Researcher
- Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
- Science Educator
- Forensic Scientist
Entry requirements
High School Diploma or equivalentSuccessful completion of secondary education with a strong background in science and mathematics.
Specific prerequisite courses in mathematics, chemistry, and physics are required. Students are advised to consult the official academic catalog for detailed course sequences and requirements.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's official tuition and fee schedule for current international student rates.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's official tuition and fee schedule for current domestic student rates.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided. Prospective students should consult university resources for estimated living expenses in Urbana-Champaign.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. International students should verify specific costs associated with their program.
How to apply
1. Complete the ApplicationSubmit the online application form, providing all requested personal, academic, and background information.
2. Submit TranscriptsProvide official academic transcripts from all secondary schools and any post-secondary institutions attended. Transcripts must be sent directly from the issuing institution.
3. Provide English Proficiency ScoresSubmit official scores from an accepted English language proficiency test (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) if English is not your native language or the primary language of instruction in your previous schooling.
4. Submit Standardized Test Scores (if applicable)While not always required, submission of SAT or ACT scores may be considered as part of the application review.
5. Submit Application Essays/Personal StatementsComplete any required essays or personal statements as part of the application.
6. Pay Application FeeSubmit the required non-refundable application fee.
7. Review Financial DocumentationInternational applicants will need to provide documentation of financial support to cover educational and living expenses.
Accreditation
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).