Return to Homepage O ne of the primary missions of the Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics is to provide undergraduate majors training that integrates theoretical concepts with laboratory skills, while giving students opportunities to grow and build an information base for productive careers. Our faculty has also been committed to offering a number of courses for non-majors in order to provide those students with opportunities to learn and think about the larger issues in the biological sciences and in biotechnology. The College of Life Sciences administers the Biological Sciences Program.
Undergraduates majoring in that program have to choose among specific areas of specialization.
The specialization in Microbiology encompasses studies on the biology of pathogens, with particular emphasis on bacteria, viruses, and the immune defenses to pathogens. The training is broad, with grounding in biochemistry, genetics, virology, immunology, and prokaryotic biology. The curriculum is meant to prepare students for careers in biotechnology, positions in research and development, or additional post-graduate studies. The specialization in Plant Biology is designed with a diverse range of career possibilities. The department offers instruction and training in plant physiology and biochemistry, genetics, virology, morphology and development, pathology, and evolution and systematics.