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MA in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology & Biochemistry

The MA in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology & Biochemistry (MCBB) is designed to provide a solid foundation in related areas of molecular bioscience through coursework, seminars, and research. The program culminates with a thesis, which can be either research- or literature-based. Research-based theses are based on original research performed in a faculty member's laboratory. Literature-based theses comprise a comprehensive review of a defined scientific field, as supervised by a faculty member. The primary goal of the program is to prepare students for successful careers in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. The program accepts post-bachelor's applicants with degrees in related disciplines where the focus has been on biology, chemistry, biotechnology, biochemistry, or a relevant field.

Learning Outcomes

Acquire thorough understanding of knowledge in molecular biology, cell biology, and biochemistry.

Acquire laboratory and critical-thinking skills in the biological sciences.

Follow the prescribed ethics for appropriate behavior in the scientific discipline.

Be prepared to enter the job market.

Course Requirements

For details on requirements for grade point averages, annual reports, and responsible conduct in research, please see the MCBB Graduate Program Guide. The entire program should be completed within two to three years. The 32 units of coursework required for the MA are distributed as follows:

CAS BB 621 Biochemistry I

CAS BB 622 Biochemistry II

CAS BI 552 Molecular Biology I

CAS BI 553 Molecular Biology II

CAS BI 735 Advanced Cell Biology

CAS MB 583/584 Progress in Cell and Molecular Biology (the student is required to attend this seminar throughout their graduate career at Boston University, but may only count a total of 4 units toward the degree).

Minimum of 8 units of elective courses and/or research units, chosen in consultation with the student's advisor.

Language Requirement

There is no foreign language requirement for this degree.

Thesis/Review Paper

Master's with a Research Thesis

For a research MA, a thesis describing the student's original research is required, which will be evaluated and approved by the MA committee. The MA committee for the research degree consists of at least three faculty, at least two of whom must be members of the MCBB program. No formal defense is required.

Master's with a Scholarly Review Paper

For a nonresearch MA, a scholarly review paper covering a topic agreed upon with the student's advisor is required. The paper is evaluated and requires approval from the student's MA committee, consisting of at least two faculty who are members of the MCBB program. Students normally enroll in CAS MB 701/702 as units for scholarly thesis work.