Cell and Molecular Biology Minor
Cell and Molecular Biology (CMB) at Grand Valley State University
Explore life at the molecular level through hands-on research and advanced lab techniques. Grand Valley’s Cell and Molecular Biology (CMB) program combines biochemistry, genetics, and biophysics to prepare students for careers in biotechnology, biomedicine, and research.
Students gain real-world experience through research and internships with faculty and industry mentors. Graduates are ready for careers in the life sciences or advanced study, including Ph.D. and M.D./Ph.D. programs.
The CMB Department offers four programs to support your academic and professional goals.
The Cell and Molecular Biology (CMB) minor is designed for students who want to expand their skills and opportunities in life science research, graduate study, or professional work. The program provides a strong foundation in biotechnology, genetics, and molecular biology techniques.
A minimum of 20 credits is required, including 14 credits of required courses and at least 6 credits of electives.
Required Courses (14 credits)
- CMB 156 – Discoveries in Cell and Molecular Biology: A Research-based Laboratory Course (1 credit)
- CMB 250 – Introduction to Biotechnology (4 credits)
- CMB 451 – Bioinformatics: Tools and Techniques for Life Scientists (3 credits)
- CMB 405 – Cell and Molecular Biology (4 credits)
- CMB 406 – Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory (2 credits)
Electives (6 credits minimum)
Choose from the following:
- BIO 423 – Plant Biotechnology (3 credits)
- CHM 461 – Biochemistry I (4 credits)
- CHM 463 – Biochemistry II (3 credits)
- CMB 409 – Responsible Conduct of Research (1 credit)
- CMB 411 – Genetics of Development and Cancer (3 credits)
- CMB 426 – Research Applications in Molecular Genetics (4 credits)
- CMB 440 – Research Applications in Drosophila Genomics (3 credits)
- CMB 452 – Computer Modeling and Drug Design (3 credits)
- CMB 460 – Genomics and Molecular Diagnostics (3 credits)
- CMB 485 – Molecular Ecology (3 credits)
- CMB 499 – Research in Cell and Molecular Biology (1–3 credits)
A maximum of three credits of CMB 499 may count toward the minor.
Declaring a CMB Minor
To declare a minor at GVSU, follow these steps:
1. Log into Banner Self-Service, and use your GVSU Network ID and Password.
2. Click on "Student".
3. Click on "Student Records".
4. Click on "Change Major" (use the same link to change minor).
5. Click on the item you wish to update: Major 1, Major 2, and/or Minor.
6. Select appropriate major or minor from the drop down list.
7. Click on Submit.
8. Click on Change to New Program.
