Cell and Molecular Biology, M.S.
Cell and molecular biology (CMB) is for students with a passion for the life sciences. It is focused on determining how cells develop and function and the significance of those functions in the living organism. CMB is the basis for such applied fields as biotechnology, pharmacology, and biomedicine. The program prepares students for employment in life sciences or for doctoral-level or professional (medical, M.D./Ph.D.) programs.
Visit the program website for more information.
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Program Overview
The Professional Science Master's (PSM) in biotechnology offers a series of high-impact life science courses, as well as training in biostatistics and bioinformatics. The PSM program also includes training in scientific communication, ethics and professionalism in science, and business-related topics like project management and business plans. An internship serves as the culminating experience.
The thesis-based (research emphasis) track focuses on an intensive, 15 to 18 month research project that results in a publishable thesis. Students work closely with a research mentor and are expected to present the results of their research at a professional conference.
Why Study CMB at Grand Valley?
- The interdisciplinary core program of the PSM provides students with a cross-disciplinary perspective not possible within a single major.
- Courses are taught in a region that is quickly developing into an important center for biotechnology research, industry, and education.
- Rewarding internships are available at the Van Andel Research Institute, Michigan State College of Human Medicine, Spectrum Health Research Labs, Walter's Greenhouses, and other area organizations.
- Faculty members are actively engaged in research, much of it carried out with students.
- Laboratories provide students with hands-on experience using state-of-the-art equipment.
Career Insights
This tool shows an overview of potential career opportunities for this major. Actual salaries, employment opportunities, and job titles may change over time.
Location & Format
Classes for graduate students in this major meet downtown on the
Robert C. Pew Grand
Rapids Campus and the GVSU Health
Campus, near the Grand Rapids Medical Mile.
- Face To Face
Coursework
Students study a variety of topics, including:
- Scientific communication
- Ethics and professionalism in science
- Statistics for Life Scientists
- DNA/RNA manipulation
- Cell culture and bioprocessing
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Deadline for fall semester start is February 1, international; and April 1, domestic. Deadline for winter semester start is September 1, international; and November 1, domestic. The $30 nonrefundable application fee is waived if the applicant has previously applied to GVSU.
Admission Requirements
There are separate admissions committees for the research emphasis and the biotechnology emphasis degree programs. The research emphasis is a thesis-based masters. The biotechnology emphasis is one of the four internship-based professional science masters (PSM) programs at GVSU.
ADMISSION TO THE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
- A minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for all undergraduate coursework is required.
- Extensive undergraduate life science experience.
- Personal statement of career goals and background experiences, including an explanation of how this program will help achieve educational and professional objectives.
- Written recommendations from at least two individuals who are in positions to attest to the applicant's successful completion of the program.
- Telecommunications interview with program faculty.
Helpful Links
For More Information
Cell and Molecular Biology
gvsu.edu/cmb
3300A Kindschi Hall
of Science
(616) 331-2315
Program Director
Mark Staves, Ph.D.
(616) 331-2473
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