Biology: Molecular & Cell Biology, BA
The concentration in Molecular and Cell Biology explores how the techniques of molecular biology and genetics are used to understand cell function. As with the previous Molecular Biology Concentration, this concentration allows Biology majors to focus on a molecular approach to biological problems by combining lecture and seminar coursework with training in laboratory research. The list of course electives is organized into two categories: Molecular and Cell Biology and Genetics and Genomics. Advanced Experimental Research is required for the concentration.
The minimum total course units for graduation in this major is 36. Double majors may entail more course units.
With permission of the Undergraduate Chair, two course units away or LPS courses may count toward the Biology major. This limit does not apply to Study Abroad.
For more information: http://www.bio.upenn.edu/undergraduate/concentrations/molecular-and-cell-biology
For information about the General Education requirements, please visit the College of Arts & Sciences Curriculum page.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| College General Education Requirements and Free Electives | ||
| Foundational Approaches + Sectors1 + Free Electives | 18.5 | |
| Major Requirements | ||
| Introductory Biology | ||
| Select one of the following tracks: | 1.5-3 | |
| Track 1: | ||
| Introduction to Biology - The Molecular Biology of Life | ||
| Introductory Molecular Biology Laboratory | ||
| Track 2: | ||
| Introduction to Biology A | ||
| Introduction to Biology B | ||
| Chemistry Requirement | ||
| Select 4 course units of Chemistry | 4 | |
| Calculus/Statistics Requirement | ||
| Select 2 units of Calculus/Statistics | 2 | |
| Intermediate Biology | ||
| BIOL 2810 | Biochemistry | 1 |
| or CHEM 2510 | Principles of Biological Chemistry | |
| BIOL 2010 | Cell Biology | 1 |
| BIOL 2210 | Molecular Biology and Genetics | 1 |
| Intermediate and Advanced Biology Electives 2 | 4-5 | |
| Select 2 course units of Molecular/Cell electives | ||
| Select 2 course units of Genetics/Genomics electives | ||
| Select 1 course unit of an additional elective | ||
| Research Requirement | 2 | |
| Independent Study | ||
| Advanced Independent Study | ||
| Microbial Diversity and Pathogenesis Lab | ||
| Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Superlab | ||
Symposium on Undergraduate Research in Biology (SURB) | ||
| Total Course Units | 36 | |
- 1
You may count no more than one course toward both a Major and a Sector requirement. For Exceptions, check the Policy Statement.
- 2
Students in Track 2 need only 4 electives.
Honors
Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.25 in the major and have taken BIOL 399 Independent Study. Thesis must be approved by the departmental honors committee.
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2023 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.