Bachelor of Science in Molecular Genetics

Molecular Genetics

The Molecular Genetics program prepares students for a variety of career goals involving Cell and Molecular Biology. The Molecular Genetics program differs from the biology degree in that students focus their studies on the foundations of modern experimental biology including biochemistry, genetics, and cell biology. These principles are critical for understanding how organisms develop, respond to signaling, and interact with their environments. These tenants are also the cornerstones of modern medicine which seeks to develop targeted therapies based on the factors that influence a patient’s condition, a field called “personalized medicine”. Many of the faculty aligned with the molecular genetics major involve students in research that seeks to understand the biological processes that govern physiology and disease.

Molecular Genetics students receive a strong interdisciplinary foundation in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, followed by specialized upper level courses in cell and molecular biology. The curriculum includes hands-on laboratory training on the most modern instrumentation and techniques available. Creating genetically modified fruit flies, fluorescent microscopy of live cancer cells, proteomic analysis of signaling pathways, and microsurgery on chick embryos are just a few of the experiences that shape our graduates into strong critical thinkers. The curriculum culminates in a Senior Capstone where molecular genetics majors apply what they have learned in the context of mentored research projects, internships or courses that examine specific biological problems from a molecular perspective. The capstone projects demonstrate to employers and graduate programs that molecular genetics majors are well-prepared scientists that are ready to tackle the outstanding questions in modern biomedical research.

Students graduating with a degree in Molecular Genetics are competitive applicants for Ph.D., M.S., Medical, Dental, or Veterinary school. Molecular Genetics students are also able to obtain employment directly in technical positions in biotechnology, the healthcare industry, and forensics laboratories.

Don’t see what you are interested in? Consider one of the other four majors offered by the Fredonia Biology Department:

• Biology
• Medical Technology
• Exercise Science
• Biology Adolescence Education

Degree Requirements:

Core Program:

Plus 9 additional hours of upper level electives at the 300 to 400 level

Supporting Courses

A total of 120 credits are required for the Bachelor of Science in Molecular Genetics. The remaining credits include courses taken to fulfill the requirement of the College Core Curriculum and electives.

To find out more about Careers in Molecular Genetics, click the link!

For more information about Molecular Genetics, please visit the program page in the University Catalog.

For additional information on our undergraduate programs, please contact us at biology@fredonia.edu