The Department of Biology offers a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular and cellular biology. This degree will increase the breadth of undergraduate training and afford biology majors a greater range of educational possibilities and career options. The BS program is designed to provide a more rigorous preparation for advanced study in the biomedical sciences. The program is tailored not only to students planning to enter PhD programs or obtain employment in the biotechnology industry, but also to premedical students. The BS program in molecular and cellular biology is administered by the faculty of the biology department and is open to all Hopkins undergraduates. Requirements The four-year BS program in molecular and cellular biology requires specialized coursework in addition to the BA program and a two-semester (6 credits) laboratory research experience. The major emphasis of the BS degree in molecular and cellular biology is the participation of the students in an original research project. Students completing these requirements will be awarded a BS degree in molecular and cellular biology only, not double BA in biology/BS in molecular and cellular biology degrees.

Students receiving BS or BA degrees in biology should: Have acquired the knowledge and skills necessary for success in graduate programs in biological sciences or in professional (medical, dental, veterinary, nursing) school Understand scientific techniques used to define biological principles, distinguish among these techniques to select one appropriate to answer the question posed, and be able to design an experiment including selecting controls, recording observations, and drawing conclusions based on experimental results Be able to analyze and answer biologically relevant problems through the successful application of quantitative and analytical methods Know the basic building blocks of biological macromolecules; be familiar with cellular processes and understand the subcellular and cellular organization of eukaryotic cells, including cytoskeleton and organelles; and possess knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of living organisms Be able to distinguish between the genetic organization and gene expression of viruses, prokaryotes, and eukaryotes, and describe the mechanisms of inheritance and evolution Be capable of describing the organization and development of major organ systems in mammals and other organisms, and outlining the roles of gene expression and cell-cell communication in development. In addition, students earning a BS degree should: Integrate themes and principles learned in the classroom through conducting original research.