Undergraduate

Biotechnology and Molecular Biology

Molecular biology is the study of molecules within the cell, and biotechnology uses knowledge of how biological systems operate to produce useful products such as pharmaceuticals. In this program, you will explore the leading edge of modern scientific research learning how molecules such as DNA, RNA, and proteins influence the fundamental processes of cellular life.

Biotechnology and Molecular Biology Program

Program Tracks Available

Major

Admission Deadline

Early Decision: November 15

Early Action: November 15

Early Action II: December 15

Regular Decision: February 15

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Degrees Offered

B.A.

School

D'Amour College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Department

Department of Biological and Physical Sciences

Program Overview

Biotechnology has developed around the study of living things at the molecular level. The chemistry of genetics has found applications in medicine and industry. Techniques of molecular genetics have allowed dramatic advances in our understanding of developmental biology, physiology, immunology, and evolution. The bachelor's degree in biotechnology and molecular biology provides you a balanced foundation in biology, plus an introduction to the theory and methods of biotechnology and molecular biology.

As a biotechnology major, dedicated faculty will encourage you to engage in internships at biotechnology laboratories in the Worcester area, host to a rapidly growing biomedical industry. When you graduate, you’ll be prepared to pursue graduate study in the biological sciences or in the health sciences. The major is also excellent preparation for a teaching career or employment in a biotechnology-based field.

Students pursuing a biotechnology and molecular biology degree acquire a balanced foundation in biology, plus an introduction to the theory and methods of biotechnology and molecular biology. After graduation, biotechnology majors can pursue a graduate degree in the biological or health sciences, teach, or find personally and professionally fulfilling employment within the biotechnology industry.

Program Contact

Brian K. Niece, Ph.D

Department Chair, Biological and Physical Sciences, Professor of Chemistry

508-767-7209 bniece@assumption.edu Testa Science Center - Room 209

An Ideal Place To Learn

100%

All classes taught by professors, none by teaching assistants

Students from 29 states and 21 countries

11:1

Student/Faculty ratio

Program Curriculum

Major

Biotechnology Degree Requirements

Biotechnology majors and molecular biology majors take 16 required math and science courses and are strongly encouraged to take an advanced philosophy course in ethics. Three elective science courses are needed; two can be internships or independent study

Required Courses

CHE 131	General Chemistry I
CHE 132	General Chemistry II
CHE 201	Organic Chemistry I
CHE 202	Organic Chemistry II
MAT 114	Elementary Functions
PHY 201	General Physics I
PHY 202	General Physics II
BIO 160	Concepts in Biology
BIO 210	Genetics
BIO 250	Microbiology
BIO 340	Molecular and Cellular Biology
BIO 440	Biotechnology: Theory and Practice
CHE 414	Biochemistry
PHI 202	Ethics

Electives choose 3

BIO 210	Genetics
BIO 220	Invertebrate Zoology
BIO 230	Botany
BIO 240	Mammalian Anatomy
BIO 250	Microbiology
BIO 310	Animal Behavior
BIO 320	Organic Evolution
BIO 340	Molecular and Cellular Biology
BIO 350	Marine Mammals: Biology and Conservation
BIO 360	Ecology
BIO 370	General Physiology
BIO 410	Introductory Immunology
BIO 415	Neuroscience
BIO 420	Developmental Biology
BIO 430	Comparative Physiology
BIO 440	Biotechnology in Theory and Practice
BIO 480	Seminar in the Life Sciences

Only 2 of 3 electives can be

BIO 291 Internship or BIO 490-491 Special Topics in Biology

BIO 291 Internship or Independent Study

Course Descriptions

ASK ME ABOUT THIS PROGRAM

Experiential Learning

Learn the Skills Employers Seek

Faculty/Student Research

The Assumption curriculum encourages scholarly and real-world experience. With hands-on research conducted alongside faculty mentors, students gain a depth of knowledge and skills that lead to professional success and personal fulfillment.

Study Abroad

At Assumption University, the world is your classroom. Students can study and explore abroad in over 50 places from Vienna to England, South Africa, and even our own campus in historic, yet modern, Rome, Italy. Assumption’s study abroad program offers culture, history, and a living classroom for all.

Internships

Assumption starts planning for your future the day you arrive on campus. Our Career Development and Internship Center helps students secure exciting and fulfilling internships where you’ll apply knowledge obtained in the classroom in a professional setting, preparing for a future career or additional study. Assumption connects students to internship opportunities in corporations, government agencies, research hospitals, non-profit organizations, and more.

Assumption's Rome Campus

At Assumption's campus in Rome, Italy, the city and the country become your classroom through daily and weekend-long excursions throughout "the eternal city" and the Italian countryside. This unique study abroad experience will enrich your academic and cultural pursuits as you walk in the footsteps of emperors and gladiators then enjoy delectable Italian cuisine or perhaps a cappuccino after class in a local cafe. (Did you know that your financial aid follows you to Rome?)

Explore the Rome Campus

Career Paths

Abbott Bioresearch Center

Aventis Pharmaceuticals

Biogen Idec

Eli Lilly and Company

Genzyme

Hasbro Children’s Hospital

Massachusetts General Hospital

Mosaic Technologies

Pfizer

Waters Corporation

Shining Their Light

Emma Ushchak

Biotechnology and Molecular Biology 2022

I learned valuable problem-solving skills and the importance of flexibility in scientific research.

I investigated the ultrasonic properties of prostate cells with a wonderful mentor and fellow student this summer. This opportunity allowed me to contribute to an ongoing project pertaining to a field I hope to pursue in the future, diagnostic medicine.

First-rate Academics in a Catholic University Setting

Assumption University awakens in students a sense of wonder, discovery, and purpose, forming graduates known for their intellectual seriousness, thoughtful citizenship, and devotion to the common good. Students are provided an education that shapes their souls, forms them intellectually, and prepares them for meaningful careers. Enlivened by the harmony of faith and reason, here, students’ minds and hearts are transformed.

Our Mission

Assumption is dedicated to providing a clear understanding of what your education will cost

We’ll help cut through the complexity of financing your education, ensuring you understand what you need, how to apply for aid, and what’s expected of you. You will be assigned a personal financial aid advisor who will guide you through the process and answer all of your financial aid-related questions.

Learn about financial aid

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Biotechnology and Molecular Biology