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What is Molecular Biology?

Molecular biology is the area of employment and study that focuses on the functions of a living organism by understanding its operation at the molecular and cellular level. Individuals in this field typically utilize the information gleaned as a foundation for further education in related fields, though researchers will work to better understand how such systems operate and form within a living organism.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$77,830

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

52.38%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

35,110

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Molecular Biology Degree

Harvard University tops our ranking on the best institution in the United States that offers a degree in Molecular Biology. They are dedicated to providing a vibrant environment where passionate students have the opportunity to thrive. Embracing a diverse range of perspectives, expertise, identities, experiences, talents, and abilities. Their strong foundation of knowledge in the field helps them stand out from the rest.

Acceptance Rate

4.64

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

The second top ranked college on our list this year is Yale University. Combining genetic, biochemical, molecular, cell biological, and quantitative approaches to investigate fundamental biological processes across a wide variety of organisms. The Molecular Biology Department is dedicated to providing a diverse and inclusive environment for every member of the community. Offering great research opportunities to their students and is committed to providing excellent teaching to a diverse group of individuals.

Acceptance Rate

6.08

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

The Department of Biological Sciences at Columbia University has a rich history in the field. The primary focus for the Department was on molecular biology and neurobiology, these two remains at the forefront of modern biology. The faculty members have received prestigious honors and awards as an indication of the strength of the Department. Graduates are well equipped with the necessary knowledge to succeed in the industry.

Acceptance Rate

5.45

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Brown University offers a top ranked degree in Molecular Biology, its research in the department has a range of cross-disciplinary approaches. With state-of-the-art resources it allows students to explore and enhance their knowledge in the field. The faculty is comprised of innovative instructor that are highly skilled in training individuals to excel in the area. Students who finish the course are prepared to dive into the world of Molecular Sciences.

Acceptance Rate

7.07

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

The Cell and Molecular Biology Graduate Group (CAMB) is an extensive graduate course offered at the University of Pennsylvania. Students have the opportunity to choose one specific area to focus on. They participate in core courses in cell and molecular biology, specialized coursework in one or more discipline areas, and original hypothesis-driven thesis research. They are committed to offering excellent training to every student providing a solid foundation for successful careers as leaders in biomedical research. 

Acceptance Rate

7.66

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

CalTech is a top-rated science university with several degree programs ranked in the top quartile of universities in the United States.  The California Institute of Technology blends their interdisciplinary courses of study and research with top faculty and gifted students to study  complex concerns related to how living things evolve, develop, and function. The institution offers a unique approach in training their individuals enrolled in the course to essential knowledge in the field. With quality resources within the campus, it allows passionate students to enhance their education in the area. Graduates are ready to navigate the field of molecular science.

Acceptance Rate

6.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

3:1

The Department of Biological Sciences at Vanderbilt University is dedicated to supporting and respecting the equal and fair treatment of all individuals. Its Department is within the College of Arts and Science and is housed in the Biological Sciences Building, the adjoining Molecular Biology Stevenson Center, and the Learned Lab. Through their ample resources, they can produce quality education to impart to its passionate students in the field. After finishing the course, they are prepared to face complex situations within the field.

Acceptance Rate

9.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

The institution's Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology conducts quality research to explore and characterize the importance of biological processes relevant to health and disease. Increasing the knowledge of the field, faculty and students work alongside together to enhance essential information. Through their extensive teaching, they produce intellectual individuals who excel in the industry. Graduates will be equipped with useful insights that are needed in the area.

Acceptance Rate

11.17

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Washington University in St Louis's Molecular Cell Biology offers a wide array of investigations into various fundamental cell processes and the mechanisms that control them. The institution's desire to analyze essential cellular functions at the utmost level of molecular resolution. Individuals enrolled in the course are exposed to various investigations into many fundamental cell processes and the mechanisms that control them. Graduates are more than ready for success in the field.

Acceptance Rate

13.85

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

The BMCB Department at Georgetown University has a broad range of collaborative individuals with investigators at the National Institutes of Health, the food and Drug Administration, the US Department of Defense, the National Institutes of Standards and Technology, and other government research institute. Through their unique approach in instructing students, it allows them to explore different areas in the field. With state-of-the-art technologies, the possibilities are endless, and individuals will have an advanced insight on different topics. Graduates are prepared to excel and succeed in the industry.

Acceptance Rate

14.36

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

The University of Southern California offers a world-class Ph.D. in Molecular Biology. They provide broad training and quality instruction to students in the field.   The first year in the program will build a foundation for more advanced study in the area. After finishing the first year, students have the opportunity to decide on their thesis advisor with whom they will conduct in-depth research for dissertation work.

Acceptance Rate

11.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Barnard College offers an undergraduate and graduate degree in molecular biology. The department is designed for passionate individuals to develop and enhance their ability to carry out scientific investigations. They help them gain a deeper understanding and critically evaluate biological information, discuss, and communicate biological concepts accurately.  Students have opportunities to pursue their interests by participating in an internship to widen their knowledge in the field.

Acceptance Rate

11.77

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Home to over 200 faculty, the Molecular Biology Institute at the University of California-Los Angeles has one of the most outstanding research programs in the United States. Their main mission is to facilitate and promote cutting-edge research under the wide arms of molecular biology. Through their interdisciplinary instructor, individuals are propelled to new heights in the field. Graduates are exposed to a vibrant environment that will help them excel in the future.

Acceptance Rate

12.32

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor's program in Biomedical Sciences offers an interdisciplinary approach to the field. With flexibility and convenience of applying to any of their participating courses through one application. Individuals enrolled in the course are exposed to an environment that will enhance and develop their knowledge and skills. They will have plenty of career opportunities in both public and private industry after earning their degree in molecular biology.  Interested students may be inclined to reach out to the UM admissions team to learn more about the CMB via the school’s primary web portal.

Acceptance Rate

22.91

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Home to undergraduate and graduate programs, the University of California-Berkeley's Department of Molecular & Cell Biology (MCB) has an intensive training of individuals enrolled in the course. They are dedicated to supporting all individuals and increase the representation of groups in their community. Students will be exposed to a wide variety of programs within the field to widen their knowledge. Graduates are prepared to solve complex questions raised in the industry.

Acceptance Rate

16.25

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

Northeastern University Cellular and Molecular Biology Department has a dynamic and interactive environment that allows passionate individuals to excel in the course. Their main mission is to generate and disseminate knowledge on molecular mechanisms underlying the functioning of cells. With five research specialization areas, students have the freedom to choose an area of interest to focus on. Inspiring individuals to advance their knowledge and skills to function well in the area.

Acceptance Rate

18.05

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Tulane University provides exposure to the world of biological sciences to passionate individuals enrolled in the institution. Focuses on the study of plants, animals, and microorganisms from the molecular to the ecosystem level. Their research is crucial to their teaching and learning to provide important knowledge to their students. They give students the freedom to develop a course of study matching their area of interest within the field.

Acceptance Rate

12.87

Student to Faculty Ratio

8:1

The molecular biology degree at Boston University provides passionate individuals with a strong base in various current scientific fields. Boston University trainees are exposed to contemporary molecular-based science through extensive coursework, seminars, and world-class research. It is based on an interdisciplinary environment and a breadth of approaches and biological interests. Graduates are prepared to handle complex concerns in the field.

Acceptance Rate

18.94

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Wake Forest University's Biochemistry and Molecular Biology program provides a strong foundation of knowledge in the field. It is structured to create a conceptual understanding, practical, and critical thinking skills. The institution requires its students to conduct research to provide them a strong experimental skill and provide insight into the course. After completing the program, students are well equipped to handle a wide array of professional challenges in the biological industry. Learn more about the WFU degree in molecular biology and biochemistry today.

Acceptance Rate

29.6

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Offering a wide range of courses that educate individuals on how to analyze organisms on a cellular and molecular level. Colorado College's Department of Molecular Biology focuses on the universal aspects shared by all living things. The program teaches students how to interpret certain situations to better understand the meaning of the area. Students who major in Molecular Biology will be prepared to participate in graduate programs to deepen their knowledge in the industry.

Acceptance Rate

13.5

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Offering unique instruction, collaborative, nurturing, and supportive environment, the Brandeis Molecular and Cell Biology (MCB) is worldly recognized for its quality research in the field. Their goal is to help students develop creative, rigorous individuals that can identify complex questions. Providing cutting-edge techniques to widen their student's education and skills. The solid foundation allows them to succeed across a wide range of career choices in the future.

Acceptance Rate

29.9

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

The institution provides its students with a wide range of essential knowledge needed to excel in the field. The mission of the department is carried out through their various professional, graduate, and undergraduate instructions. Research training is provided within the campus with a broad insight into the molecular biosciences. They welcome interested individuals to visit their campus and inspire them to enroll in the University of Florida.

Acceptance Rate

36.58

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

The Molecular Biology and Biochemistry at the University of California-Irvine is ranked in the top 15% of life science programs in the United States. It is formed by faculty passionate about a deeper understanding of the mechanistic principles that govern nature. Through its extensive training, students have the opportunity to widen their knowledge in the field. Completing the UCI MBB degree will provide them a variety of exciting career opportunities in the future as we continue to explore the exceptionally complex world of molecular biology.

Acceptance Rate

26.54

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

The University of Texas at Austin (UTA) is a world-class institution that is committed to teaching the future generation of scientists and helps them excel in the field. They provide training for Pd.D. students and they have the opportunity to utilize the resources available on the campus. They also engage with a larger scientific community and the public to promote the scientific enterprise. Graduates will be prepared to have a successful career in the molecular biology arena in both large and small organizations across myriad sectors.

Acceptance Rate

31.82

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

Case Western Reserve University's Department of Molecular Biology and Microbiology provides an intense focus in the study of the growth and development of microorganisms at the molecular level. They offer an in-depth understanding and interpretation of the field. They have successful research programs funded nationally giving students quality resources through their studies. Graduates are well equipped with essential information needed to navigate the complexities within the biological industry.

Acceptance Rate

27.36

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Top Degrees in Molecular Biology

Students interested in pursing a degree in molecular biology should spend time understanding the degree options below.  The summary of degree programs will help drive decisions about your future with greater efficiency and ease.  Before collecting information from schools on this page by degree level, simply read our book on the college admissions process today.  Establish your priority list after reading the book and jump into your college research below.

Molecular Biology Bachelor’s Degree

A bachelor degree in molecular biology is a 4-year program for full-time students and longer for part-time students.  Bachelor degrees can be conferred as a Bachelor of Science (BS) at most accredited colleges and universities.  The BS degree program blends liberal arts education such as history, math, sociology, communications, and psychology with core curriculum.

While each school will have variations of curriculum in molecular biology, most students will have very similar classes.  Examples of courses in the bachelor’s degree include: chemistry, biology, calculus, statistics, physics, genetics, cell biology, physical chemistry, molecular biology, biochemistry, microbial chemistry, yeast molecular genetics, environmental phage biology, environmental toxicology, and microbiology.

Molecular Biology Master’s Degree

Master degrees in molecular biology is another popular degree option accounting for approximately 30% of professionals in the field.  A master’s degree can be conferred as a Master of Science (MS) or Master of Applied Science (MAS).  Graduate programs can last 2-3 years dependent upon course offerings and student qualifications.

Pathways can take students to the MS thesis, MS non-thesis, or dual degree such as Molecular Biology and Chemistry or Molecular Biology and Biochemistry.  The combination of lectures, labs, thesis projects, and hands-on learning will prepare students for further education in the field or employment in a variety of science-rich organizations.

PhD in Molecular Biology

The doctorate degree in molecular biology is conferred as a PhD at most schools.  A PhD in molecular biology is a degree known as terminal degree.  It is defined as such as there are no degrees conferred beyond the doctorate level in molecular biology.

The program can last 3-5 years depending on course load, pace, and time taken to complete the dissertation program.  Courses in the PhD program can vary from school to school as courses may be self-designed.  For students that prefer to remain in a defined track, many schools offer a number of options to choose from in the molecular biology field of study.

Tracks can include: molecular biology, developmental biology, cellular biology, pathogenesis, microbial biology, biochemistry, chemical biology, biophysics, bioinformatics, and biomedical engineering.  Graduates from the PhD program will be equipped to continue with research projects in public or private companies, teach at the collegiate level, or pursue a career in industry.

College Requirements in Molecular Biology

Individuals seeking an education in molecular biology will generally pursue a bachelors degree. The education provided utilizes various sciences while providing a strong background in the understanding of the human body as well as other living organisms.

The education will provide a foundation in research methodologies, technologies, and techniques to be able to visualize and understand the cell structures and molecular interactions. A curriculum in molecular biology may include:

  • Chemistry
  • Cell Physiology
  • Molecular Research
  • Biology
  • Calculus

Molecular biology is considereda good undergraduate degree for individuals wishing to pursue an education in biochemistry, genetics and medicine. The foundation it provides is strong, ensuring the development of basic and complex skills early in ones education. Students wishing to study this field should find a school that has a strong program and maintains facilities conducive to research and growth.

Employment in Molecular Biology

Individuals who pursue a career in this field will seek employment at laboratories either for the purposes of research or analyses. Most analyses will be done at the medical level, with individuals looking for anomalies, ailments or other pathogens that may affect a person at the molecular level.

Others may work in areas such as cancer, viral, or bacterial research which can lead to effective treatments or cures in the long run. As noted above, higher levels of education in other fields can lead to careers in medicine, research for the purposes of advancement and healthcare.

Resources for Molecular Biologists

The ASCB and the ASBMB are trade associations that may be great resources for students interested in this fascinating vocation.  For additional information on a career path in biology, visit our Definitive Career Guide in Biology on our blog.

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