Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (MS)
Overview
The Master of Sciences in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (MS BCMB) will provide an advanced multidisciplinary program for students in the biochemistry, cell biology, molecular biology, medical & bio-medical research, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and health-care fields. This program will provide students with skills, knowledge, and leadership capabilities for careers and leadership roles not only in the medical/bio-medical fields but also in education, administration, and many healthcare related areas.
This program provides two options for completing the MS BCMB: thesis option and non-thesis option. All BCMB graduate students are expected to participate in the School’s seminar series for two-semesters.
The thesis student must complete a total of 30 credits, 3 of which can be in a related field as prescribed electives with consultation with the MS BCMB Program Coordinator. Students are required to have a thesis supervisor/chair and form a thesis graduate committee of at least three members, of which two must hold faculty appointments in the School of Integrative Biological and Chemical Sciences (SIBCS). The thesis supervisor/chair and committee will provide coordination of coursework and mentoring regarding completion of a thesis reflective of scientific research. Students complete a written thesis proposal, thesis and an oral defense of their research. The thesis work is expected to be worthy of submission, in whole or in part, for publication in a peer-reviewed scientific journal in the field of BCMB or related area.
The non-thesis student must complete a total of 30 credits, 3 of which can be in a related field as prescribed electives in consultation with the BCMB Program Coordinator. Non-thesis students are supervised by the BCMB Graduate Program Coordinator. Non-Thesis students must complete a capstone requirement and pass a comprehensive examination to graduate.
Admission Requirements
Admission to the MS BCMB Program is competitive and multiple factors are considered in the decision to admit new graduate students. Meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the program. The Graduate Program Committee of the School of Integrative Biological and Chemical Sciences conducts a holistic review of all applicants, which considers, but is not limited to, admission qualifications, academic ability and achievement, skills and experience, recommendations and the ability to contribute to the research of the School and university goal of becoming an emerging research university.
To be considered for admission to the graduate program in BCMB, prospective candidates must first meet all requirements for graduate admission to the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, as well as the other admission requirements listed below:
- Bachelor’s degree in science technology engineering or math (STEM) area from an accredited institution in the United States or recognized international equivalent. Prospective students must have earned either (a) an undergraduate degree with major in a STEM field or (b) 30 hours of undergraduate coursework in biological and chemical sciences or closely related disciplines.
- Preferred undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0 in upper-level STEM coursework.
- Two letters of recommendation from professional or academic people who are familiar with the applicant’s undergraduate or higher scholastic record.
- Personal statement explaining (a) academic and professional goal(s) and objectives in pursuing the degree, (b) preparation for graduate studies, (c) research or other professional experience, and (d) area of interest in biochemistry and molecular biology. The letter must state whether you are pursuing the thesis or non-thesis option.
- Applicants pursuing the thesis option must have a commitment from a faculty member to supervise the master's thesis at the time of application to be admitted. Students who do not have a commitment from a faculty member to supervise the master's thesis may be considered for the non-thesis option.
- A Curriculum Vitae or Resume.
Application for admission must be submitted prior to the published deadline. The application is available at www.utrgv.edu/gradapply. Incomplete applications from potential students will not be considered for review, and the student will not be admitted.
Program Requirements
Required Courses - 15 Hours
Non-thesis Option
Prescribed Electives - 12 Hours
BIOL and CHEM Electives - 9 Hours
Any BIOL and CHEM 5000 or 6000 level courses.
Non-thesis students are not permitted to take BIOL 6185, CHEM 6185, BIOL 6285, CHEM 6285, BIOL 6385, CHEM 6385, BIOL 6485, CHEM 6485, BIOL 6585, CHEM 6585, BIOL 6685 and CHEM 6685.
Related Field Electives - 3 Hours
Any 5000 or 6000 level BIOL, BMEE, CHEM, CIVE, EEMS, MANE, MECE, MATH, and PHYS.
It is recommended to consult with the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Graduate Program Coordinator prior to registering for a course.
Capstone Requirement - 3 Hours
Written Comprehensive Exam
Students on the non-thesis option must pass a comprehensive examination in their final semester of the program.
Thesis Option
Prescribed Electives - 9 Hours
BIOL and CHEM Electives - 6 Hours
Any BIOL and CHEM 5000 or 6000 level courses.
A maximum of 6 hours may be completed through a combination of BIOL 6185, CHEM 6185, BIOL 6285, CHEM 6285, BIOL 6385, CHEM 6385, BIOL 6485, CHEM 6485, BIOL 6585, CHEM 6585, BIOL 6685 and CHEM 6685.
Related Field Electives - 3 Hours
Any 5000 or 6000 level course in BIOL, BMEE, CHEM, CIVE, EEMS, MANE, MECE, MATH, and PHYS.
It is recommended to consult with the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Graduate Program Coordinator prior to registering for a course.
Thesis - 6 hours
Total Credit Hours: 30