Cell and Molecular Biology at Grand Valley
Cell and Molecular Biology (CMB) is designed for students passionate about the life sciences and genetic research who want to prepare for careers in their field or for graduate and professional training. The program explores how cells develop and function, and the significance of those functions within living organisms.
This interdisciplinary field draws on biochemistry, biophysics, genetics, and developmental biology, forming the foundation for many applied disciplines including biotechnology, pharmacology, and biomedicine.
CMB offers a range of programs designed to prepare students for success in today’s life science industries and in advanced graduate or professional training.
A distinctive feature of Grand Valley’s CMB program is the required independent research or internship experience. Each student works closely with a research mentor—from CMB faculty, other participating departments, or external research institutions and businesses—gaining valuable hands-on experience conducting original research in their area of interest. This research experience, combined with the program’s rigorous curriculum, provides students with the critical skills and preparation needed for success in graduate programs and the professional workforce.
The Cell and Molecular Biology Department is part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
About the Department
The Cell and Molecular Biology (CMB) Department at Grand Valley explores the molecular foundations of life and prepares students for careers in biotechnology, research, and advanced study. Every student gains hands-on research experience, setting our graduates apart in graduate programs, professional schools, and industry. CMB also offers innovative programs like the combined B.S./M.S. degree and Bioinformatics and Genomics Certificate to keep pace with today’s life sciences.
Programs in Cell and Molecular Biology (CMB)
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Bachelor of Science
Cell & Molecular Biology -
Master of Science
Research Thesis - Based Master’s in Cell & Molecular Biology -
Master of Science
Internship-Based Professional Master’s in Biotechnology -
Combined Degree
Accelerated B.S. and M.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology
Student analysts pipetting RNA sample
Why Choose CMB at Grand Valley
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Interdisciplinary Training
Work with more than 20 faculty mentors across four departments and a wide range of research areas. -
Personalized Program
Tailor your coursework and research to fit your professional goals. -
Mentorship
Complete independent research with a faculty mentor or through an internship. -
Proven Reputation
Join a program with a strong record of preparing students for graduate school and careers in science and biotechnology.
CMB Master’s student reflects on his growth and thanks his mentors at Grand Valley.
Program Highlights
The CMB program weaves together rigorous coursework and immersive research to prepare you for advanced studies or leadership roles in biotechnology and life sciences. From foundational cell and molecular biology to specialized electives and graduate‑level laboratory techniques, you’ll build deep skills and hands‑on experience.
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Foundational Courses – CMB 155: Introduction to Cell & Molecular Biology provides essential knowledge of molecular, cellular, and developmental biology.
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Research-Based Laboratory – CMB 156: Discoveries in Cell & Molecular Biology gives early, hands-on exposure to research practices.
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Intermediate Courses – CMB 405 & CMB 406: Cell & Molecular Biology and Laboratory develop experimental and instrumentation skills.
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Specialized Electives – Tailor your studies with courses like CMB 451: Bioinformatics, CMB 452: Computer Modeling & Drug Design, and CMB 460: Genomics & Molecular Diagnostics.
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Research & Internship Experience – All CMB B.S. complete CMB 499 (Research) or CMB 490 (Internship), guaranteeing hands-on experience that builds real-world skills and professional readiness.
Learn More
Want full course listings and descriptions? Visit our full course catalog for detailed syllabi, credit‑hours, prerequisites and semester offerings.
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Student Scholars Day (SSD) celebrates nearly 30 years of faculty-mentored research, scholarship, and creative work by GVSU students
How are our CMB students doing?
Based on the ETS Major Fields Test in Biology, the CMB program at GVSU ranks higher than 90% of the 345 departments nationwide whose students (more than 7000) participated in this exam.
Student Outcomes
|
Year |
18 |
17 |
16 |
15 |
14 |
13 |
12 |
11 |
10 |
09 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Biochemistry & Cell Energetics |
97% |
99% |
98% |
98% |
98% |
92% |
95% |
98% |
95% |
95% |
|
Cellular Structure Organization & Function |
94% |
94% |
99% |
98% |
99% |
88% |
99% |
98% |
95% |
95% |
|
Molecular Biology & Molecular Genetics |
99% |
99% |
99% |
99% |
99% |
97% |
95% |
70% |
95% |
95% |
|
Analytical Skills |
87% |
90% |
97% |
91% |
96% |
82% |
95% |
85% |
95% |
80% |
The GVSU Difference
Undergraduate students collaborate with faculty members on research projects that would only be available to graduate students at other schools.
Our graduates have a 94% placement rate with 97% employed or pursuing grad school.
Faculty members are known for accessibility, mentorship, and personal engagement.
Named one of the Top Public Schools in America by U.S. News & World Report, 2025.
Hear From Students about CMB 155/156 Discoveries in Cell and Molecular Biology
Watch the promotional video for CMB 156 – Discoveries in Cell and Molecular Biology
Video acknowledgement: Mattie Kropf Brechbiel
For Information please email [email protected]
CMB140 Living Foods: Ferment them yourselves!
Students share about the experience of taking CMB140.
Watch the promotion video about CMB140 Living Foods: Ferment them yourselves!
Gen Ed course with a lab, offered in the Fall and winter
Video acknowledgement: Mattie Kropf Brechbiel
For information, please email Mallory Ginis, [email protected]
Contact Us
Dr. Mark Staves
[email protected]
(616) 331-2315
Department Office
3300A P. Douglas Kindschi Hall of Science
Allendale, MI 49401