UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, LOS ANGELES · UNITED STATES
Molecular Biology
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€31k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- M.S. and Ph.D. degrees availableDegrees Offered
- Four specialized research areasAreas of Study
- Master's: Capstone or Thesis PlanMaster's Options
- Ph.D.: Extensive research and qualifying examsDoctoral Path
- No foreign language requirementLanguage Requirement
- Up to 4 quarters for Master's (Thesis Plan: 6 quarters)Master's Duration
The Molecular Biology Interdepartmental Program at UCLA offers both Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees. The M.S. degree is primarily designed for students admitted to the Ph.D. track who may later decide to pursue a master's degree. Students can specialize in one of four areas: Biochemistry, Biophysics & Structural Biology (BBSB); Cell and Developmental Biology (CDB); Gene Regulation, Epigenomics, and Transcriptomics (GREAT); or Immunity, Microbes & Molecular Pathogenesis (IMMP). The program emphasizes rigorous coursework and, for master's students, a choice between a Capstone Plan or a Thesis Plan, both culminating in a departmental examination. For Ph.D. students, the program involves comprehensive coursework, laboratory rotations, qualifying examinations, and dissertation research under faculty guidance.
Curriculum
All graduate students in the Molecular Biology Interdepartmental Program must complete the first-year curriculum. Specific course requirements vary slightly between the Master's and Doctoral degrees, with a strong emphasis on graduate-level coursework and research.
- First Year (Mandatory for all MS and PhD students)
- MBIDP CurriculumMBIDP
- Biochemistry, Biophysics & Structural Biology courses or equivalentMBIDP 254A, B; Chem 230B and 230D
- Cell and Developmental Biology courses or equivalentMBIDP 255 or BC 251 and MBIDP 252
- Approved ElectiveElective
- Research Ethics CourseMIMG C234 or Chem 203A/B or Chem C250
- Laboratory Rotations (three, one per quarter)Lab Rotations
Careers
Graduates with a degree in Molecular Biology are well-prepared for a variety of research-focused roles in academia and industry. The program equips students with advanced knowledge and practical skills for careers in scientific research and development.
- Research Scientist
- Laboratory Manager
- Biotechnology Specialist
- Academic Researcher
- Postdoctoral Fellow
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students in the Molecular Biology Master's program?
- Annual tuition for non-California residents is approximately $36,297. Tuition and fees are subject to change, and it is recommended to check the UCLA Registrar’s official site for the most current information.
- What is the duration of the Master's program in Molecular Biology?
- The Master's program can take up to 4 quarters. If a student chooses the Thesis Plan, it can extend up to 6 quarters.
- Are there specific areas of specialization within the Molecular Biology Master's program?
- Yes, students can specialize in one of four areas: Biochemistry, Biophysics & Structural Biology (BBSB); Cell and Developmental Biology (CDB); Gene Regulation, Epigenomics, and Transcriptomics (GREAT); or Immunity, Microbes & Molecular Pathogenesis (IMMP).
- What are the application deadlines for the Molecular Biology Master's program?
- The application deadline for Fall admission is December 15. The deadline to apply for financial support for entering graduate students is also December 15.
- What career paths can graduates pursue with a Master's in Molecular Biology?
- Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Research Scientist, Laboratory Manager, Biotechnology Specialist, Academic Researcher, and Postdoctoral Fellow in academia and industry.
- Does the program require international students to have a foreign language proficiency?
- No, there is no foreign language requirement for this program.
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Fees
Tuition (international)Approximately $36,297 annually for non-California residents.
Tuition (home)Approximately $21,115 per year for California residents.
LivingNot specified.
Tuition and fees are subject to change and may vary for professional or self-supporting programs. Refer to the UCLA Registrar’s official site for the most current information. Fee remissions may be available for eligible graduate students, often paid by the hiring department.
How to apply
1. Select Degree Program and Area of StudyChoose between the Master of Science (M.S.) or Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Molecular Biology and select one of the four specialized Home Areas (BBSB, CDB, GREAT, IMMP).
2. Complete Online ApplicationSubmit the application through the UCLA Graduate Admissions portal. Ensure all required sections are completed accurately.
3. Submit Supporting DocumentsThis typically includes transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Specific document requirements should be confirmed with the program.
4. Meet English Proficiency RequirementsInternational applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency, usually through standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS, unless exempt.
5. Apply for Financial SupportIf seeking financial assistance, submit applications for fellowships and other awards by the stated deadlines, typically December 15 for entering graduate students.
6. Monitor Application StatusTrack the progress of your application through the admissions portal and respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
Scholarships
Merit-Based AwardsVaries
Extramural FellowshipsVaries
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students in the Molecular Biology Master's program?
+
Annual tuition for non-California residents is approximately $36,297. Tuition and fees are subject to change, and it is recommended to check the UCLA Registrar’s official site for the most current information.
What is the duration of the Master's program in Molecular Biology?
+
The Master's program can take up to 4 quarters. If a student chooses the Thesis Plan, it can extend up to 6 quarters.
Are there specific areas of specialization within the Molecular Biology Master's program?
+
Yes, students can specialize in one of four areas: Biochemistry, Biophysics & Structural Biology (BBSB); Cell and Developmental Biology (CDB); Gene Regulation, Epigenomics, and Transcriptomics (GREAT); or Immunity, Microbes & Molecular Pathogenesis (IMMP).
What are the application deadlines for the Molecular Biology Master's program?
+
The application deadline for Fall admission is December 15. The deadline to apply for financial support for entering graduate students is also December 15.
What career paths can graduates pursue with a Master's in Molecular Biology?
+
Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Research Scientist, Laboratory Manager, Biotechnology Specialist, Academic Researcher, and Postdoctoral Fellow in academia and industry.
Does the program require international students to have a foreign language proficiency?
+
No, there is no foreign language requirement for this program.