At which campus can I study this program?
Program Description
Students in this major apply basic principles of chemistry and physics to the study of living cells and their components to explain biology at molecular, genetic, and cellular levels. Students will develop a strong foundation in quantitative and analytical biological sciences, including molecular biology, biochemistry, enzymology, metabolism, cell biology, and molecular genetics.
Biochemistry Option
Available at the following campuses: Berks, University Park
The Biochemistry Option is offered for students who have interests in the structures, properties and functions of macromolecules, and in the quantitative and analytical techniques used to characterize these macromolecules.
Molecular and Cell Biology Option
Available at the following campuses: Berks, University Park
The Molecular and Cell Biology Option is available to students whose interests relate to the growth, reproduction and differentiation of cells and to signaling processes that occur in multicellular systems that activate and modulate these processes. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for advanced study leading to careers in research, medicine, and education, or to secure employment in biotechnology and health-related industries, including government, academic, and private laboratories.
What is Biochemistry and Molecular Biology?
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is the study of the molecular basis of life. Biochemistry uses the principles of chemistry and physics to understand biological molecules, structures, and reactions. Molecular biology focuses on how biological molecules interact to form cells, organisms, and behaviors.
You Might Like This Program If...
- You like learning by doing experiments.
- You want to know how life works at the most fundamental level.
- You are interested in understanding the molecular basis of health, disease, and behavior.
- You want to learn how molecules can be manipulated to address global challenges such as disease, famine, and energy needs.
Entrance to Major
In order to be eligible for entrance to the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology major, a student must have:
Degree Requirements
For the Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, a minimum of 125 credits is required:
| Requirement | Credits |
|---|---|
| General Education | 45 |
| Requirements for the Major | 95 |
15 of the 45 credits for General Education are included in the Requirements for the Major. This: 9 credits of GN courses; 6 credits of GQ courses.
Requirements for the Major
To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in 9 credits of any BMB or MICRB 400-level course except: BMB 408, BMB 442, BMB 443W, BMB 445W, BMB 448, BMB 488, BMB 496 MICRB 408, MICRB 421W, MICRB 422, MICRB 447.
To graduate, a student enrolled in the major must earn a grade of C or better in each course designated by the major as a C-required course, as specified by Senate Policy 82-44.
Common Requirements for the Major (All Options)
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| BIOL 322 | Genetic Analysis | 3 |
| BMB 251 | Molecular and Cell Biology I 1 | 3 |
| BMB 252 | Molecular and Cell Biology II 1 | 3 |
| BMB 400 | Molecular Biology of the Gene | 2 |
| BMB 401 | General Biochemistry | 3 |
| BMB 402 | General Biochemistry | 3 |
| BMB 442 | Laboratory in Proteins, Nucleic Acids, and Molecular Cloning | 3 |
| BMB 443W | Laboratory in Protein Purification and Enzymology | 3 |
| CHEM 113 | Experimental Chemistry II  | 1 |
| CHEM 210 | Organic Chemistry I | 3 |
| CHEM 212 | Organic Chemistry II | 3 |
| CHEM 213 | Laboratory in Organic Chemistry | 2 |
| MATH 141 | Calculus with Analytic Geometry II | 4 |
| MICRB 201 | Introductory Microbiology 1 | 3 |
| MICRB 202 | Introductory Microbiology Laboratory | 2 |
| PSU 16 | First-Year Seminar Science | 1 |
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| CHEM 110 | Chemical Principles I | 3 |
| CHEM 111 | Experimental Chemistry I | 1 |
| CHEM 112 | Chemical Principles II | 3 |
| MATH 140 | Calculus With Analytic Geometry I | 4 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| BMB 445W | Laboratory in Molecular Genetics | 2 |
| or BMB 448 | Model Systems and Approaches in Cell Biology Inquiry | |
| Requirements for the Option | ||
| Select an option | 40 | |
- 1
Requirements for the Option
Biochemistry Option (40 credits)
Available at the following campuses: Berks, University Park
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| BMB 474 | Analytical Biochemistry | 3 |
| CHEM 450 | Physical Chemistry - Thermodynamics | 3 |
| CHEM 452 | Physical Chemistry - Quantum Chemistry | 3 |
| PHYS 211 | General Physics: Mechanics | 4 |
| PHYS 212 | General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism | 4 |
| PHYS 213 | General Physics: Fluids and Thermal Physics | 2 |
| PHYS 214 | General Physics: Wave Motion and Quantum Physics | 2 |
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas | ||
| Select 7-9 credits from any 400-level BMB/CHEM/MICRB course or from department list D (additional 400-level courses) 1 | 7-9 | |
| Select 2-3 credits in the mathematical sciences from department list B | 2-3 | |
| Select 7-10 credits from department list C | 7-10 | |
- 1
With a maximum of 3 credits in BMB 408 and/or MICRB 408 and a maximum of 4 credits in BMB 488 and/or BMB 496.
Molecular and Cell Biology Option (40 credits)
Available at the following campuses: Berks, University Park
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| BMB 430 | Developmental Biology | 3 |
| BMB 460 | Cell Growth and Differentiation | 3 |
| MICRB 410 | Principles of Immunology | 3 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Select 8 credits of the following: | 8 | |
| General Physics: Mechanics and General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism | ||
| Introductory Physics I and Introductory Physics II | ||
| Select 3-6 credits of the following: | 3-6 | |
| Physical Chemistry with Biological Applications | ||
| Physical Chemistry - Thermodynamics and Physical Chemistry - Quantum Chemistry | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas | ||
| Select 5-6 credits from any 400-level BMB/MICRB course or from department list D (additional 400-level courses) 1 | 5-6 | |
| Select 2-3 credits in the mathematical sciences from department list B | 2-3 | |
| Select 8-13 credits from department list C | 8-13 | |
- 1
With a total maximum of 3 credits in BMB 408 and/or MICRB 408 and a maximum of 4 credits in BMB 488 and/or BMB 496.
General Education
Connecting career and curiosity, the General Education curriculum provides the opportunity for students to acquire transferable skills necessary to be successful in the future and to thrive while living in interconnected contexts. General Education aids students in developing intellectual curiosity, a strengthened ability to think, and a deeper sense of aesthetic appreciation. These are requirements for all baccalaureate students and are often partially incorporated into the requirements of a program. For additional information, see the General Education Requirements section of the Bulletin and consult your academic adviser.
The keystone symbol appears next to the title of any course that is designated as a General Education course. Program requirements may also satisfy General Education requirements and vary for each program.
Foundations (grade of C or better is required and Inter-Domain courses do not meet this requirement.)
- Quantification (GQ): 6 credits
- Writing and Speaking (GWS): 9 credits
Breadth in the Knowledge Domains (Inter-Domain courses do not meet this requirement.)
- Arts (GA): 3 credits
- Health and Wellness (GHW): 3 credits
- Humanities (GH): 3 credits
- Social and Behavioral Sciences (GS): 3 credits
- Natural Sciences (GN): 3 credits
Integrative Studies
- Inter-Domain Courses (Inter-Domain): 6 credits
Exploration
- GN, may be completed with Inter-Domain courses: 3 credits
- GA, GH, GN, GS, Inter-Domain courses. This may include 3 credits of World Language course work beyond the 12th credit level or the requirements for the student’s degree program, whichever is higher: 6 credits
University Degree Requirements
First Year Engagement
All students enrolled in a college or the Division of Undergraduate Studies at University Park, and the World Campus are required to take 1 to 3 credits of the First-Year Seminar, as specified by their college First-Year Engagement Plan.
Other Penn State colleges and campuses may require the First-Year Seminar; colleges and campuses that do not require a First-Year Seminar provide students with a first-year engagement experience.
First-year baccalaureate students entering Penn State should consult their academic adviser for these requirements.
Cultures Requirement
6 credits are required and may satisfy other requirements
- United States Cultures: 3 credits
- International Cultures: 3 credits
Writing Across the Curriculum
3 credits required from the college of graduation and likely prescribed as part of major requirements.
Total Minimum Credits
A minimum of 120 degree credits must be earned for a baccalaureate degree. The requirements for some programs may exceed 120 credits. Students should consult with their college or department adviser for information on specific credit requirements.
Quality of Work
Candidates must complete the degree requirements for their major and earn at least a 2.00 grade-point average for all courses completed within their degree program.
Limitations on Source and Time for Credit Acquisition
The college dean or campus chancellor and program faculty may require up to 24 credits of course work in the major to be taken at the location or in the college or program where the degree is earned. Credit used toward degree programs may need to be earned from a particular source or within time constraints (see Senate Policy 83-80). For more information, check the Suggested Academic Plan for your intended program.
Academic Advising
The objectives of the university's academic advising program are to help advisees identify and achieve their academic goals, to promote their intellectual discovery, and to encourage students to take advantage of both in-and out-of class educational opportunities in order that they become self-directed learners and decision makers.
Both advisers and advisees share responsibility for making the advising relationship succeed. By encouraging their advisees to become engaged in their education, to meet their educational goals, and to develop the habit of learning, advisers assume a significant educational role. The advisee's unit of enrollment will provide each advisee with a primary academic adviser, the information needed to plan the chosen program of study, and referrals to other specialized resources.
READ SENATE POLICY 32-00: ADVISING POLICY
University Park
Jennifer Keefer
Academic Adviser
239 Ritenour Building
University Park, PA
814-863-5487
jls227@psu.edu
Berks
Justin DiAngelo
Program Chair, Associate Professor
212E Luerssen Science Building
Reading, PA 19610
610-396-6441
BKBiochemMB@psu.edu
Suggested Academic Plan
The suggested academic plan(s) listed on this page are the plan(s) that are in effect during the 2024-25 academic year. To access previous years' suggested academic plans, please visit the archive to view the appropriate Undergraduate Bulletin edition.
Biochemistry Option: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, B.S. at University Park Campus
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| PSU 16 | 1 | MICRB 2011 | 3 |
| CHEM 110*#† | 3 | MICRB 202 or 203 (consult with an academic adviser for options) | 2 |
| CHEM 111*#† | 1 | CHEM 112*#† | 3 |
| MATH 140 or 140B*‡#† | 4 | CHEM 113† | 1 |
| ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 15‡ | 3 | MATH 141 or 141B‡† | 4 |
| General Education Course | 3 | CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C‡ | 3 |
| 15 | 16 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| BMB 2511 | 3 | BMB 2521 | 3 |
| CHEM 210 | 3 | CHEM 212 | 3 |
| PHYS 211† | 4 | CHEM 213 | 2 |
| Department List C (consult with an academic adviser for options) | 3 | PHYS 212† | 4 |
| General Education Course | 3 | BIOL 322 | 3 |
| 16 | 15 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| BMB 4002 | 2 | BMB 4022 | 3 |
| BMB 4012 | 3 | BMB 445W or 443W3 | 2 |
| BMB 442 | 3 | BMB, CHEM, or MICRB 400-Level Selections (consult with an academic adviser for options)2 | 3 |
| MATH 231 (consult with an academic adviser for options) | 2 | General Education Course | 6 |
| PHYS 213† | 2 | General Education Course (GHW) | 1.5 |
| PHYS 214† | 2 | ||
| Department List C (consult with an academic adviser for options) | 1 | ||
| 15 | 15.5 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| BMB 443W, 445W, or 4483 | 3 | BMB 4742 | 3 |
| BMB, CHEM, or MICRB 400-Level Selections (consult with an academic adviser for options)2 | 3 | BMB, CHEM, or MICRB 400-Level Selections (consult with an academic adviser for options)2 | 3 |
| CHEM 450 | 3 | CHEM 452 | 3 |
| Department List C Selection (consult with an academic adviser for options) | 3 | ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D‡ | 3 |
| General Education Course | 3 | Department List C (consult with an academic adviser for options) | 1 |
| General Education Course (GHW) | 1.5 | General Education Course | 3 |
| 16.5 | 16 | ||
| Total Credits 125 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
- 1
To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in two of the following courses: Introductory Microbiology (MICRB 201), Molecular and Cell Biology I (BMB 251)/Molecular and Cell Biology I (MICRB 251), and/or Molecular and Cell Biology II (BMB 252)/Molecular and Cell Biology II (MICRB 252).
- 2
To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in 9 credits of any BMB or MICRB 400-level course except those listed in the requirements for the major (consult with an academic adviser for clarification).
- 3
In order to complete degree requirements students may choose to take BMB 448 or BMB 445W. In addition, students must also take BMB 443W.
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.
Biochemistry Option (MATH 22 Start): Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, B.S. at University Park Campus
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits | Summer | Credits |
| PSU 16 | 1 | CHEM 110*#† | 3 | CHEM 112*#† | 3 |
| MATH 221 | 3 | CHEM 111*#† | 1 | CHEM 113 (if available)† | 1 |
| MATH 261 | 3 | MATH 140 or 140B*#†1 | 4 | ||
| ENGL 15, ESL 15, or ENGL 30H‡ | 3 | CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C‡ | 3 | ||
| General Education Course | 6 | General Education Course | 3 | ||
| 16 | 14 | 4 | |||
| Second Year | |||||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits | Summer | Credits |
| MICRB 2012 | 3 | BMB 2512 | 3 | BMB 4013 | 3 |
| MICRB 202 | 2 | CHEM 212 | 3 | ||
| CHEM 210 | 3 | CHEM 213W | 2 | ||
| MATH 141 or 141B†1 | 4 | PHYS 211† | 4 | ||
| General Education Course | 3 | BIOL 322 | 3 | ||
| 15 | 15 | 3 | |||
| Third Year | |||||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits | ||
| BMB 2522 | 3 | BMB 4023 | 3 | ||
| BMB 4003 | 2 | BMB, CHEM, or MICRB 400-Level Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)3 | 3 | ||
| BMB 4423 | 3 | PHYS 213† | 2 | ||
| MATH 231 (Consult with an academic adviser for options) | 2 | PHYS 214† | 2 | ||
| PHYS 212† | 4 | General Education Course | 3 | ||
| General Education Course (GHW) | 1.5 | Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options) | 1 | ||
| 15.5 | 14 | ||||
| Fourth Year | |||||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits | ||
| BMB 448, 445W, or 443W4 | 3 | BMB 443W or 445W4 | 2 | ||
| BMB, CHEM, or MICRB 400-Level Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)3 | 3 | BMB 4743 | 3 | ||
| CHEM 450 | 3 | CHEM 452 | 3 | ||
| ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D‡ | 3 | BMB, CHEM, or MICRB 400-Level Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)3 | 3 | ||
| General Education Course (GHW) | 1.5 | General Education Course | 3 | ||
| Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options) | 1 | ||||
| 14.5 | 14 | ||||
| Total Credits 125 | |||||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
- 1
6 credits of MATH 22, MATH 26, MATH 140, or MATH 141 require a grade of C or better for General Education.
- 2
To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in two of the following courses: Introductory Microbiology (MICRB 201), Molecular and Cell Biology I (BMB 251)/Molecular and Cell Biology I (MICRB 251), and/or Molecular and Cell Biology II (BMB 252)/Molecular and Cell Biology II (MICRB 252).
- 3
To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in 9 credits of any BMB or MICRB 400-level course except those listed in the requirements for the major (consult with an academic adviser for clarification).
- 4
In order to complete degree requirements students may choose to take BMB 448 or BMB 445W. In addition, students must also take BMB 443W.
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.
Molecular and Cell Biology Option: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, B.S. at University Park Campus
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| PSU 16 | 1 | MICRB 2011 | 3 |
| CHEM 110*#† | 3 | MICRB 202 or 203 (Consult with an academic adviser for options) | 2 |
| CHEM 111*#† | 1 | CHEM 112*#† | 3 |
| MATH 140 or 140B*‡#† | 4 | CHEM 113† | 1 |
| ENGL 15, ESL 15, or ENGL 30H‡ | 3 | MATH 141 or 141B‡† | 4 |
| General Education Course | 3 | CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C‡ | 3 |
| 15 | 16 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| BMB 2511 | 3 | BMB 2521 | 3 |
| CHEM 210 | 3 | CHEM 212 | 3 |
| PHYS 250 (Consult with and academic adviser for alternative options)† | 4 | CHEM 213 | 2 |
| Department List B MATH Selection (consult with an academic adviser for options) | 3 | PHYS 251 (Consult with an academic adviser for alternative options)† | 4 |
| General Education Course | 3 | BIOL 322 | 3 |
| 16 | 15 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| BMB 4002 | 2 | BMB 4022 | 3 |
| BMB 4012 | 3 | BMB 4602 | 3 |
| BMB 442 | 3 | BMB 443W or 445W3 | 3 |
| MICRB 4102 | 3 | General Education Course | 6 |
| Department List C (consult with an academic adviser for options) | 2 | General Education Course (GHW) | 1.5 |
| General Education Course (GHW) | 1.5 | ||
| 14.5 | 16.5 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| BMB 4282 | 3 | BMB or MICRB 400-Level Selection (Consult with an academic adviser for options)2 | 3 |
| BMB 4302 | 3 | ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D‡ | 3 |
| BMB or MICRB 400-Level Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)2 | 2 | Department List C (consult with an academic adviser for options) | 7 |
| BMB 448, 445W, or 443W3 | 2 | General Education Course | 3 |
| General Education Course | 3 | ||
| Department List C (consult with an academic adviser for options) | 3 | ||
| 16 | 16 | ||
| Total Credits 125 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
- 1
To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in two of the following courses: Introductory Microbiology (MICRB 201), Molecular and Cell Biology I (BMB 251)/Molecular and Cell Biology I (MICRB 251), and/or Molecular and Cell Biology II (BMB 252)/Molecular and Cell Biology II (MICRB 252).
- 2
To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in 9 credits of any BMB or MICRB 400-level course except those listed in the requirements for the major (consult with an academic adviser for clarification).
- 3
In order to complete degree requirements students may choose to take BMB 448 or BMB 445W. In addition, students must also take BMB 443W.
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.
Molecular and Cell Biology Option (MATH 22 Start): Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, B.S. at University Park Campus
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits | Summer | Credits |
| PSU 16 | 1 | CHEM 110*#† | 3 | CHEM 112*#† | 3 |
| MATH 221 | 3 | CHEM 111*#† | 1 | CHEM 113 (if available)† | 1 |
| MATH 261 | 3 | MATH 140 or 140B*#†1 | 4 | ||
| ENGL 15, ESL 15, or ENGL 30H‡ | 3 | CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C‡ | 3 | ||
| General Education Course | 6 | General Education Course | 3 | ||
| 16 | 14 | 4 | |||
| Second Year | |||||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits | Summer | Credits |
| MICRB 2012 | 3 | BMB 2512 | 3 | BMB 4013 | 3 |
| MICRB 202 | 2 | CHEM 212 | 3 | ||
| CHEM 210 | 3 | CHEM 213W | 2 | ||
| MATH 141 or 141B†1 | 4 | PHYS 250 (Consult with and academic adviser for alternative options)† | 4 | ||
| General Education Course | 3 | BIOL 322 | 3 | ||
| 15 | 15 | 3 | |||
| Third Year | |||||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits | ||
| BMB 2522 | 3 | BMB 4023 | 3 | ||
| BMB 4003 | 2 | BMB 4603 | 3 | ||
| BMB 4423 | 3 | BMB or MICRB 400-Level Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)3 | 3 | ||
| PHYS 251 (Consult with an academic adviser for alternative options)† | 4 | General Education Course | 3 | ||
| General Education Course (GHW) | 1.5 | General Education Course (GHW) | 1.5 | ||
| General Education Course | 3 | ||||
| 16.5 | 13.5 | ||||
| Fourth Year | |||||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits | ||
| BMB 4283 | 3 | BMB 443W or 445W4 | 3 | ||
| BMB 4303 | 3 | MICRB 4103 | 3 | ||
| BMB 448, 445W, or 443W4 | 2 | ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D‡ | 3 | ||
| BMB or MICRB 400-Level Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)3 | 3 | Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options) | 2 | ||
| Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options) | 3 | Department List B MATH Selection (Consult with an academic adviser for options)1 | 3 | ||
| 14 | 14 | ||||
| Total Credits 125 | |||||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
- 1
6 credits of MATH 22, MATH 26, MATH 140, MATH 141, or List B Mathematics Selection require a grade of C or better for General Education.
- 2
To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in two of the following courses: Introductory Microbiology (MICRB 201), Molecular and Cell Biology I (BMB 251)/Molecular and Cell Biology I (MICRB 251), and/or Molecular and Cell Biology II (BMB 252)/Molecular and Cell Biology II (MICRB 252).
- 3
To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in 9 credits of any BMB or MICRB 400-level course except those listed in the requirements for the major (consult with an academic adviser for clarification).
- 4
In order to complete degree requirements students may choose to take BMB 448 or BMB 445W. In addition, students must also take BMB 443W.
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.
Biochemistry Option: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, B.S. at Commonwealth Campuses
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| CHEM 110*#† | 3 | CHEM 112*#† | 3 |
| CHEM 111*#† | 1 | CHEM 113† | 1 |
| MATH 140*‡#† | 4 | MATH 141‡† | 4 |
| BIOL 110† | 4 | PHYS 211† | 4 |
| ENGL 15, ESL 15, or ENGL 30H‡ | 3 | General Education Course | 3 |
| General Education Course (GHW) | 1.5 | General Education Course (GHW) | 1.5 |
| 16.5 | 16.5 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| BIOL 230W†1 | 4 | CHEM 212 | 3 |
| CHEM 210 | 3 | CHEM 213 | 2 |
| PHYS 212† | 4 | PHYS 213† | 2 |
| General Education Course | 3 | PHYS 214† | 2 |
| CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C‡ | 3 | ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D‡ | 3 |
| General Education Course | 3 | ||
| 17 | 15 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| BMB 2521 | 3 | BMB 4002 | 2 |
| MICRB 2011 | 3 | BMB 4012 | 3 |
| MICRB 202 | 2 | BMB 4422 | 3 |
| BIOL 2224 | 3 | BMB, CHEM, or MICRB 400-Level Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)2 | 3 |
| MATH 231 (Consult with an academic adviser for options) | 2 | General Education Course | 3 |
| General Education Course | 3 | Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options) | 1 |
| 16 | 15 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| BMB 443W, 445W, or 4483 | 3 | BMB 402 | 3 |
| BMB, CHEM, or MICRB 400-Level Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)2 | 4 | BMB 443W or 445W3 | 2 |
| CHEM 450 | 3 | BMB 4742 | 3 |
| Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options) | 5 | CHEM 452 | 3 |
| General Education Course | 3 | ||
| 15 | 14 | ||
| Total Credits 125 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
- 1
To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in two of the following courses: Introductory Microbiology (MICRB 201), Molecular and Cell Biology I (BMB 251)/Molecular and Cell Biology I (MICRB 251) or Biology: Molecules and Cells (BIOL 230W), and/or Molecular and Cell Biology II (BMB 252)/Molecular and Cell Biology II (MICRB 252).
- 2
To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in 9 credits of any BMB or MICRB 400-level course except those listed in the requirements for the major (consult with an academic adviser for clarification).
- 3
In order to complete degree requirements students may choose to take BMB 448 or BMB 445W. In addition, students must also take BMB 443W.
- 4
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
Molecular and Cell Biology Option: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, B.S. at Commonwealth Campus
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| CHEM 110*#† | 3 | CHEM 112*#† | 3 |
| CHEM 111*#† | 1 | CHEM 113† | 1 |
| MATH 140*‡#† | 4 | MATH 141‡† | 4 |
| BIOL 110† | 4 | Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options) | 4 |
| ENGL 15, ESL 15, or ENGL 30H‡ | 3 | General Education Course | 3 |
| General Education Course (GHW) | 1.5 | General Education Course (GHW) | 1.5 |
| 16.5 | 16.5 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| BIOL 230W†1 | 4 | CHEM 212 | 3 |
| CHEM 210 | 3 | CHEM 213 | 2 |
| PHYS 250 (Consult with an academic adviser for alternative options)† | 4 | PHYS 251 (Consult with an academic adviser for alternative options)† | 4 |
| General Education Course | 3 | STAT 200‡ | 4 |
| CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C‡ | 3 | General Education Course | 3 |
| 17 | 16 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| BMB 2521 | 3 | BMB 4002 | 2 |
| MICRB 2011 | 3 | BMB 4012 | 3 |
| MICRB 202 | 2 | BMB 442 | 3 |
| BIOL 2224 | 3 | BMB 4602 | 3 |
| General Education Course | 3 | General Education Course | 3 |
| Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options) | 1 | Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options) | 1 |
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| BMB 4282 | 3 | BMB 443W or 445W3 | 2 |
| BMB 4302 | 3 | BMB 4022 | 3 |
| BMB 448 or 443W3 | 3 | MICRB 4102 | 3 |
| BMB or MICRB 400-Level Selection (Consult with an academic adviser for options)2 | 3 | BMB or MICRB 400-Level Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)2 | 3 |
| General Eduation Course | 3 | ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D‡ | 3 |
| 15 | 14 | ||
| Total Credits 125 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
- 1
To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in two of the following courses: Introductory Microbiology (MICRB 201), Molecular and Cell Biology I (BMB 251)/Molecular and Cell Biology I (MICRB 251) or Biology: Molecules and Cells (BIOL 230W), and/or Molecular and Cell Biology II (BMB 252)/Molecular and Cell Biology II (MICRB 252).
- 2
To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in 9 credits of any BMB or MICRB 400-level course except those listed in the requirements for the major (consult with an academic adviser for clarification).
- 3
In order to complete degree requirements students may choose to take BMB 448 or BMB 445W. In addition, students must also take BMB 443W.
- 4
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
Career Paths
Penn State students with a B.S. in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology are prepared for jobs in industry as well as government, medical, and university research laboratories. Many students also decide to continue their studies by attending graduate programs or professional schools including medical, dental, business, and law school.
Careers
A B.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology prepares students for a wide variety of careers, including health related professions, professions in academia, government, and industry. Examples of biochemistry related careers are:
- Agricultural Scientist
- Biological / Media Illustrator
- Biomedical Researcher
- Drug Development
- Genetic Counselor
- Genetic Engineer
- Health Professions – e.g. Dentist, Optometrist, Pharmacist, Physician, Physician Assistant
- Industry Scientist
- Pharmaceutical Sales
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Professor
- Science Policy Expert
- Optometrist
- Science Writer / Editor
- Patent Attorney
- Research Technician
Opportunities for Graduate Study
Many Penn State students with a BS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology will pursue graduate education in biochemistry or other related disciplines (biology, bioinformatics, chemistry, genomics, immunology, neurobiology, toxicology, pharmacology, and others). A B.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology also prepares students to pursue higher degrees in the health professions. Opportunities for graduate studies include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Graduate Studies (M.S. or Ph.D.)
- Dental School Medical School (MD or DO)
- Optometry School, Pharmacy School
- Physical Therapy School
- Veterinary School.
In addition, graduates with a BMB degree may decide to pursue further education in law or business.
Professional Resources
Accreditation
The B.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is accredited by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB).
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ACCREDITATION BY THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
Contact
University Park
DEPARTMENT OF BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
108 Althouse Laboratory
University Park, PA 16802
814-863-5487
bmbundergrad@psu.edu
https://science.psu.edu/bmb/undergraduate/contacts
Berks
DIVISION OF SCIENCE
Luerssen Science Building
Reading, PA 19610
610-396-6441
BKBiochemMB@psu.edu
https://berks.psu.edu/academics/baccalaureate-degrees/bs-biochemistry-molecular-biology