Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, B.S. (Science)

Program Code: BMB_BS

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:

  1. attained at least a 2.00 cumulative grade-point average, and
  2. completed CHEM 110, CHEM 111, CHEM 112, and MATH 140; and
  3. earned a grade of C or better in each of these courses.

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)

Prescribed Courses
BIOL 322Genetic Analysis3
BMB 251Molecular and Cell Biology I 13
BMB 252Molecular and Cell Biology II 13
BMB 400Molecular Biology of the Gene2
BMB 401General Biochemistry3
BMB 402General Biochemistry3
BMB 442Laboratory in Proteins, Nucleic Acids, and Molecular Cloning3
BMB 443WLaboratory in Protein Purification and Enzymology3
CHEM 113Experimental Chemistry II Keystone/General Education Course1
CHEM 210Organic Chemistry I3
CHEM 212Organic Chemistry II3
CHEM 213Laboratory in Organic Chemistry2
MATH 141Calculus with Analytic Geometry II Keystone/General Education Course4
MICRB 201Introductory Microbiology 13
MICRB 202Introductory Microbiology Laboratory2
PSU 16First-Year Seminar Science1
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
CHEM 110Chemical Principles I Keystone/General Education Course3
CHEM 111Experimental Chemistry I Keystone/General Education Course1
CHEM 112Chemical Principles II Keystone/General Education Course3
MATH 140Calculus With Analytic Geometry I Keystone/General Education Course4
Additional Courses
BMB 445WLaboratory in Molecular Genetics2
or BMB 448 Model Systems and Approaches in Cell Biology Inquiry
Requirements for the Option
Select an option40
1

To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in two of the following courses: MICRB 201, BMB 251/MICRB 251, and/or BMB 252/MICRB 252.

Requirements for the Option

Biochemistry Option (40 credits)

Available at the following campuses: Berks, University Park

Prescribed Courses
BMB 474Analytical Biochemistry3
CHEM 450Physical Chemistry - Thermodynamics3
CHEM 452Physical Chemistry - Quantum Chemistry3
PHYS 211General Physics: Mechanics Keystone/General Education Course4
PHYS 212General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism Keystone/General Education Course4
PHYS 213General Physics: Fluids and Thermal Physics Keystone/General Education Course2
PHYS 214General Physics: Wave Motion and Quantum Physics Keystone/General Education Course2
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) 17-9
Select 2-3 credits in the mathematical sciences from department list B2-3
Select 7-10 credits from department list C7-10
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

Prescribed Courses
BMB 430Developmental Biology3
BMB 460Cell Growth and Differentiation3
MICRB 410Principles of Immunology3
Additional Courses
Select 8 credits of the following:8
General Physics: Mechanics Keystone/General Education Course
and General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism Keystone/General Education Course
Introductory Physics I Keystone/General Education Course
and Introductory Physics II Keystone/General Education Course
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) 15-6
Select 2-3 credits in the mathematical sciences from department list B2-3
Select 8-13 credits from department list C8-13
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 Keystone/General Education Course 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 2023-24 academic year. To access previous years' suggested academic plans, please visit the archive to view the appropriate Undergraduate Bulletin edition (Note: the archive only contains suggested academic plans beginning with the 2018-19 edition of the Undergraduate Bulletin).

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
FallCreditsSpringCredits
PSU 161MICRB 20113
CHEM 110*#†3MICRB 202 or 203 (consult with an academic adviser for options)2
CHEM 111*#†1CHEM 112*#†3
MATH 140 or 140B*‡#†4CHEM 1131
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 153MATH 141 or 141B‡†4
General Education Course3CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C3
 15 16
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BMB 25113BMB 25213
CHEM 2103CHEM 2123
PHYS 2114CHEM 2132
Department List C (consult with an academic adviser for options)3PHYS 2124
General Education Course3BIOL 3223
 16 15
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BMB 40022BMB 40223
BMB 40123BMB 445W or 443W32
BMB 4423BMB, CHEM, or MICRB 400-Level Selections (consult with an academic adviser for options)23
MATH 231 (consult with an academic adviser for options)2General Education Course6
PHYS 2132General Education Course (GHW)1.5
PHYS 2142 
Department List C (consult with an academic adviser for options)1 
 15 15.5
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BMB 443W, 445W, or 44833BMB 47423
BMB, CHEM, or MICRB 400-Level Selections (consult with an academic adviser for options)23BMB, CHEM, or MICRB 400-Level Selections (consult with an academic adviser for options)23
CHEM 4503CHEM 4523
Department List C Selection (consult with an academic adviser for options)3ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D3
General Education Course3Department List C (consult with an academic adviser for options)1
General Education Course (GHW)1.5General Education Course3
 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
FallCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
PSU 161CHEM 110*#†3CHEM 112*#†3
MATH 2213CHEM 111*#†1CHEM 113 (if available)1
MATH 2613MATH 140 or 140B*#†14 
ENGL 15, ESL 15, or ENGL 30H3CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C3 
General Education Course6General Education Course3 
 16 14 4
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
MICRB 20123BMB 25123BMB 40133
MICRB 2022CHEM 2123 
CHEM 2103CHEM 213W2 
MATH 141 or 141B†14PHYS 2114 
General Education Course3BIOL 3223 
 15 15 3
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits 
BMB 25223BMB 40233 
BMB 40032BMB, CHEM, or MICRB 400-Level Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)33 
BMB 44233PHYS 2132 
MATH 231 (Consult with an academic adviser for options)2PHYS 2142 
PHYS 2124General Education Course3 
General Education Course (GHW)1.5Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options)1 
 15.5 14 
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits 
BMB 448, 445W, or 443W43BMB 443W or 445W42 
BMB, CHEM, or MICRB 400-Level Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)33BMB 47433 
CHEM 4503CHEM 4523 
ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D3BMB, CHEM, or MICRB 400-Level Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)33 
General Education Course (GHW)1.5General Education Course3 
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
FallCreditsSpringCredits
PSU 161MICRB 20113
CHEM 110*#†3MICRB 202 or 203 (Consult with an academic adviser for options)2
CHEM 111*#†1CHEM 112*#†3
MATH 140 or 140B*‡#†4CHEM 1131
ENGL 15, ESL 15, or ENGL 30H3MATH 141 or 141B‡†4
General Education Course3CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C3
 15 16
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BMB 25113BMB 25213
CHEM 2103CHEM 2123
PHYS 250 (Consult with and academic adviser for alternative options)4CHEM 2132
Department List B MATH Selection (consult with an academic adviser for options)3PHYS 251 (Consult with an academic adviser for alternative options)4
General Education Course3BIOL 3223
 16 15
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BMB 40022BMB 40223
BMB 40123BMB 46023
BMB 4423BMB 443W or 445W33
MICRB 41023General Education Course6
Department List C (consult with an academic adviser for options)2General Education Course (GHW)1.5
General Education Course (GHW)1.5 
 14.5 16.5
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BMB 42823BMB or MICRB 400-Level Selection (Consult with an academic adviser for options)23
BMB 43023ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D3
BMB or MICRB 400-Level Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)22Department List C (consult with an academic adviser for options)7
BMB 448, 445W, or 443W32General Education Course3
General Education Course3 
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
FallCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
PSU 161CHEM 110*#†3CHEM 112*#†3
MATH 2213CHEM 111*#†1CHEM 113 (if available)1
MATH 2613MATH 140 or 140B*#†14 
ENGL 15, ESL 15, or ENGL 30H3CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C3 
General Education Course6General Education Course3 
 16 14 4
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
MICRB 20123BMB 25123BMB 40133
MICRB 2022CHEM 2123 
CHEM 2103CHEM 213W2 
MATH 141 or 141B†14PHYS 250 (Consult with and academic adviser for alternative options)4 
General Education Course3BIOL 3223 
 15 15 3
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits 
BMB 25223BMB 40233 
BMB 40032BMB 46033 
BMB 44233BMB or MICRB 400-Level Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)33 
PHYS 251 (Consult with an academic adviser for alternative options)4General Education Course3 
General Education Course (GHW)1.5General Education Course (GHW)1.5 
General Education Course3  
 16.5 13.5 
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits 
BMB 42833BMB 443W or 445W43 
BMB 43033MICRB 41033 
BMB 448, 445W, or 443W42ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D3 
BMB or MICRB 400-Level Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)33Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options)2 
Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options)3Department List B MATH Selection (Consult with an academic adviser for options)13 
 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
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CHEM 110*#†3CHEM 112*#†3
CHEM 111*#†1CHEM 1131
MATH 140*‡#†4MATH 141‡†4
BIOL 1104PHYS 2114
ENGL 15, ESL 15, or ENGL 30H3General Education Course3
General Education Course (GHW)1.5General Education Course (GHW)1.5
 16.5 16.5
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOL 230W†14CHEM 2123
CHEM 2103CHEM 2132
PHYS 2124PHYS 2132
General Education Course3PHYS 2142
CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C3ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D3
 General Education Course3
 17 15
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BMB 25213BMB 40022
MICRB 20113BMB 40123
MICRB 2022BMB 44223
BIOL 22243BMB, CHEM, or MICRB 400-Level Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)23
MATH 231 (Consult with an academic adviser for options)2General Education Course3
General Education Course3Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options)1
 16 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BMB 443W, 445W, or 44833BMB 4023
BMB, CHEM, or MICRB 400-Level Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)24BMB 443W or 445W32
CHEM 4503BMB 47423
Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options)5CHEM 4523
 General Education Course3
 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

BIOL 222 is an approved substitute for BIOL 322.

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
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CHEM 110*#†3CHEM 112*#†3
CHEM 111*#†1CHEM 1131
MATH 140*‡#†4MATH 141‡†4
BIOL 1104Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options)4
ENGL 15, ESL 15, or ENGL 30H3General Education Course3
General Education Course (GHW)1.5General Education Course (GHW)1.5
 16.5 16.5
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOL 230W†14CHEM 2123
CHEM 2103CHEM 2132
PHYS 250 (Consult with an academic adviser for alternative options)4PHYS 251 (Consult with an academic adviser for alternative options)4
General Education Course3STAT 2004
CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C3General Education Course3
 17 16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BMB 25213BMB 40022
MICRB 20113BMB 40123
MICRB 2022BMB 4423
BIOL 22243BMB 46023
General Education Course3General Education Course3
Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options)1Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options)1
 15 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BMB 42823BMB 443W or 445W32
BMB 43023BMB 40223
BMB 448 or 443W33MICRB 41023
BMB or MICRB 400-Level Selection (Consult with an academic adviser for options)23BMB or MICRB 400-Level Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)23
General Eduation Course3ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D3
 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

BIOL 222 is an approved substitute for BIOL 322.

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

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT POTENTIAL CAREER OPTIONS FOR GRADUATES OF THE BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY PROGRAM

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/bs-biochemistry-molecular-biology