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Physical & Biological Sciences
Undergraduate Affairs
142 Jack Baskin Engineering Bldg
UC Santa Cruz, CA 95064
Phone: 831.459.4143
Fax: 831.459.1568
Email
Contact Us
Map & Directions
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ACADEMIC PROGRAMS:
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| The Departments of Chemistry & Biochemistry and Molecular Cell & Developmental Biology co-sponsor the following degree program: |
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| Program Overview: |
| Research at the macromolecular, molecular, and atomic levels is revolutionizing our understanding of the fundamental processes of life. Students interested in joining this search are best prepared by undertaking course work in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and computer science. Toward this end, an undergraduate major in biochemistry and molecular biology (BMB) is offered by faculty who are actively engaged in research on biological systems. |
| Students who declare the BMB major earn a bachelor of science degree. The BMB major constitutes an integrated curriculum of basic instruction in biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics, followed by the opportunity to pursue advanced study in specialized areas of interest. In modern, well-equipped laboratories, distinguished faculty are engaged in frontline research at UCSC. The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry hosts a very active seminar series of national and international scholars in which advanced undergraduates are encouraged to participate. |
| The BMB program features close faculty-student interaction, small upper-division classes, stimulating learning environments, and opportunities for independent research and study. Students majoring in BMB are encouraged to become involved in research under the guidance of a faculty sponsor. Many students participating in this aspect of the program have made important contributions to the scientific literature. |
| Given the wide scope and interdisciplinary nature of this program, a considerable degree of flexibility has been incorporated into the major. All prospective majors should consult the Physcial Sciences advisor to be assigned a BMB advisor as early as possible. Junior transfer students or others with questions should aslo consult the Physcial Sciences advisor. A double major of BMB with the biological sciences majors or chemistry is not permitted. No minor is offered. |
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| Advising for the Biochemistry & Molecular Biology degree program |
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| Research Opportunities: |
| **UNDER CONSTRUCTION** |
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| Career Opportunities: |
| Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, the science of molecules and macromolecules in biological systems, is central to the modern sciences, to much of biotechnology, and to the ultimate resolution of many major problems confronting humanity. Biochemistry & Molecular Biology is involved not only in understanding materials we call “biochemicals,” but also in their design and manufacture: foods, pharmaceuticals, and many other products sold in supermarkets and in the most sophisticated technological supply houses in the world. Biochemists and molecular biologists are involved in research and development in air and water pollution control, and in fundamental studies in biology from the gene to the ecology of forests. Given the importance of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology in the modern world, biochemists and molecular biologists always have been and will certainly continue to be in demand as skilled professionals. |
| For some careers in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, graduate education is essential. These careers include both basic and applied research (as senior investigator) as well as teaching in colleges and universities. An advanced degree in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology often is a gateway to administrative jobs in government or universities, in scientific publishing, or in business. For other types of jobs, a bachelor's degree with a major in biochemistry and molecular biology is appropriate. These include jobs in a myriad of industries, in biochemical analysis or control work, in production, and in marketing. They also include a variety of jobs in government, particularly in the teaching and administration or monitoring of activities with a biological component. |
| Careers in other Fields |
| A bachelor's degree in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology provides a strong foundation for graduate study in other fields such as medicine, veterinary medicine, dentistry, pharmacy or public health. Others are allied sciences, including biology, geology, nutrition and chemical engineering. Still others are less obviously related to undergraduate education in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology. A number of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology graduates who have then studied law or business have found an entry into rewarding careers. Few lawyers or business executives have the training to understand biochemical phenomena or biotechnology processes that are so much a feature of life today. Those who can deal effectively with biochemical problems in their legal or business careers are much in demand. |
| Many professional science writers have found Biochemistry & Molecular Biology an ideal undergraduate major. The same is true with people interested in product testing and in consumer information and advocacy. |
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| ANY QUESTIONS?: Contact chemistryadvising@ucsc.edu |
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