Grand Valley State University offers a Combined Bachelor’s and Master’s program in Cell and Molecular Biology (CMB), allowing qualified undergraduates to earn both degrees in an accelerated timeframe.

Students admitted to this program may begin taking graduate-level courses after completing 90 undergraduate credits. Up to 12 graduate credits may count toward both the undergraduate and graduate degree (per University policy). Students earning a grade of “B” or higher in these courses are granted advanced standing in the master’s program and must complete an additional 23 graduate credits to earn the M.S. degree.

After completing 120 undergraduate credits and all bachelor’s degree requirements, students are awarded a B.S., at which point they begin graduate-level studies and pay graduate tuition for the remaining coursework.

Program Highlights

• Take graduate courses after completing 90 undergraduate credits.

• Up to 12 graduate credits can count toward both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

• Students who earn a B or higher in these courses gain advanced standing in the MS program.

• Complete an additional 23 graduate credits to earn the master’s degree, including an internship and graduate capstone.

Timeline Snapshot

• 90 credits: Begin graduate courses

• 120 credits: Earn B.S., transition to graduate status

• Remaining 23 credits: Earn M.S.

Suggested course curriculum

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Eligibility & Application:

• Minimum GPA 3.25.

• Completion of core CMB and science courses (including CMB 155/156, BIO 375/376, CHM 115/116/241/242, MTH 125, CMB 250).

• Completion or registration for CMB 499 (research) or CMB 490 (internship).

• Submit: academic transcripts, two recommendation letters, CV, and letter of intent.

• Interview with 2–3 faculty members.

Undergraduate Requirements

• Complete all general education and university requirements.

• Take 12–15 graduate-level credits in your final undergraduate year.

• Complete at least 3 credits of independent research or internship and the undergraduate capstone.

• Students remain undergraduates for tuition and financial aid purposes until all bachelor’s requirements are complete.

Graduate Requirements

After completing the B.S.:

• Transition to graduate student status (graduate tuition and financial aid eligibility)

• Complete internship or research (summer after B.S. or during graduate year)

• Complete remaining 23 graduate credits to earn M.S.

Graduation Without Completing the M.S.

• Graduate courses completed during the program count toward the undergraduate degree

• Credits cannot later be applied toward a graduate degree if M.S. is not completed