IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Master of Science in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (MCDB)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
7.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 30 credits totalProgram Credit Requirement
- 22 credits earned at ISUMinimum ISU Credits
- Core curriculum in BiochemistryRequired Foundation
- Choose 2 of 3: Cell, Development, or Molecular BiologySpecialization Options
- Two semesters of research seminarResearch Exposure
- 1 credit hour of ethics trainingProfessional Development
The Master of Science (M.S.) program in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (MCDB) at Iowa State University provides advanced training in the fundamental biological processes that govern life at its most basic levels. This program is designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of molecular, cellular, and developmental biology through coursework and research. Students in the MCDB M.S. program will complete a core curriculum that includes biochemistry and choose courses from two of the three main areas: cellular biology, developmental biology, or molecular biology. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific interests and career goals, in consultation with their Program of Study Committee. A significant component of the M.S. degree involves hands-on research experience, culminating in a thesis or project that prepares students for further study or professional careers. This program emphasizes the development of critical research skills, including experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in research, biotechnology, academia, and other science-related fields.
Curriculum
The MCDB M.S. program requires a total of 30 credits, with at least 22 credits completed at Iowa State University. Students must complete a two-semester sequence in Biochemistry and then select one course from two of the following three areas: Cellular Biology, Developmental Biology, or Molecular Biology. All students also participate in research seminars and ethics training.
- Year 1
- Biochemistry IBBMB 404
- Biochemistry IIBBMB 405
- Cellular Biology Coursee.g., GDCB 528, BMS 575, BBMB 645, GDCB 545
- Developmental Biology Coursee.g., GDCB 533, GDCB 545
- Molecular Biology Coursee.g., MICRO 502, GDCB 511, VMPM 608, GDCB 545
- Research Seminar (Fall)Various
- Responsible Conduct of Research in Science & EngineeringGRST 565
- Seminar in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental BiologyMCDB 698
- Year 2
- Research Seminar (Fall)Various
- Seminar in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental BiologyMCDB 698
Careers
Graduates of the MCDB M.S. program are equipped for a variety of career paths in research, industry, and academia. The program fosters skills applicable to roles requiring a deep understanding of biological mechanisms.
- Research Assistant
- Laboratory Technician
- Biotechnology Specialist
- Pharmaceutical Researcher
- Academic Support Staff
- Science Communicator
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the Master of Science in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology program?
- You need a four-year Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 generally expected. Official transcripts from all previously attended post-secondary institutions are required.
- What English proficiency scores are accepted for international applicants?
- We accept TOEFL iBT (100), IELTS (7.5), Duolingo (120), TOEFL Paper (PBT) (600), or PTE (68). Non-native English speakers who wish to teach must also pass the Oral English Certification Test (OECT).
- How do I apply to the MCDB Master's program as an international student?
- Submit the graduate application form online, along with academic transcripts, English proficiency scores, a personal essay, resume, financial statement, and 3-5 letters of recommendation.
- What are the application deadlines for the MCDB Master's program?
- The application deadline for Fall admission is June 15, and for Spring admission it is November 15. It is recommended that international students apply at least three months prior to the start of the term.
- What is the tuition and fee structure for this program?
- Tuition and fee details are available on the Iowa State University Registrar's website. International students should also consult the 'Finance' section for specific requirements.
- What is the duration and credit requirement for the MCDB Master's degree?
- The program requires a total of 30 credits, with at least 22 credits completed at Iowa State University. The curriculum is typically completed over two years.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA four-year Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant scientific field is required. Minimum GPA of 3.0 is generally expected, though programs may have higher requirements.
TOEFL iBT100
IELTS7.5
Duolingo120
TOEFL Paper (PBT)600
PTE68
International students must meet the university's English proficiency standards. Non-native English speakers who wish to teach must also pass the Oral English Certification Test (OECT). Graduate credit from other institutions may be transferable at the discretion of the Program of Study Committee and the Graduate College.
Fees
Tuition (international)Information not available from provided sources.
Tuition (home)Information not available from provided sources.
LivingInformation not available from provided sources.
Tuition and fee details are available on the Iowa State University Registrar's website. International students should also consult the 'Finance' section for specific requirements. Estimated living costs are not detailed in the provided program information.
How to apply
1. Complete the Online ApplicationSubmit the graduate application form through the Iowa State University Graduate College portal.
2. Submit Academic TranscriptsProvide official transcripts from all previously attended post-secondary institutions.
3. Proof of English ProficiencySubmit scores from an accepted English proficiency test (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo) meeting the program's minimum requirements.
4. Personal Statement/EssayInclude a personal essay or statement of purpose as part of the application.
5. ResumeUpload a current resume detailing your academic and professional experience.
6. Financial StatementInternational applicants must provide a financial statement demonstrating ability to fund their studies.
7. Letters of RecommendationTypically, 3-5 letters of recommendation are required from academic or professional references.
8. Pay Application FeeSubmit the required application fee.
Scholarships
General ScholarshipsVaries
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the Master of Science in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology program?
+
You need a four-year Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 generally expected. Official transcripts from all previously attended post-secondary institutions are required.
What English proficiency scores are accepted for international applicants?
+
We accept TOEFL iBT (100), IELTS (7.5), Duolingo (120), TOEFL Paper (PBT) (600), or PTE (68). Non-native English speakers who wish to teach must also pass the Oral English Certification Test (OECT).
How do I apply to the MCDB Master's program as an international student?
+
Submit the graduate application form online, along with academic transcripts, English proficiency scores, a personal essay, resume, financial statement, and 3-5 letters of recommendation.
What are the application deadlines for the MCDB Master's program?
+
The application deadline for Fall admission is June 15, and for Spring admission it is November 15. It is recommended that international students apply at least three months prior to the start of the term.
What is the tuition and fee structure for this program?
+
Tuition and fee details are available on the Iowa State University Registrar's website. International students should also consult the 'Finance' section for specific requirements.
What is the duration and credit requirement for the MCDB Master's degree?
+
The program requires a total of 30 credits, with at least 22 credits completed at Iowa State University. The curriculum is typically completed over two years.