​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Program Description

When you understand the functions of living organisms, you have the ability to know how every element of life operates within them, right down to the molecule.

As a biology: cellular, molecular, and biomedical science major, you will explore molecular interactions that both drive and regulate cellular and physiological processes. As you work to gain understanding of biological concepts, you will have the opportunity to take part in research projects and learn the latest techniques in the laboratory.

CMU's cellular, molecular, and biomedical science major is a pivotal launch pad for success in graduate school. Both bachelor and graduate degrees will help you forge a career path in biology you're excited about and ready for.

Biology Major: Biomedical, Cellular, and Molecular Concentration

The Biology Major will prepare students for graduate programs, pre-professional programs, certificate programs, and careers in diverse biological disciplines. Experiences in the program will strengthen skills in teamwork, inquiry and analysis, oral and written communication , problem solving, ethical reasoning, critical and creative thinking, and quantitative and information literacy. Biology students have the opportunity to perform one-on-one research with Biology faculty members and often present their work at local, regional, national, or international venues. To support student success, the Biology department offers numerous scholarship opportunities, granting greater than $60K in awards annually. Biology students are part of a learning community that includes local networking opportunities (registered student organizations and clubs), state and regional collaborations and partnerships (e.g., government agencies, tribal organizations), and global experiences (study abroad opportunities). The Biomedical, Cellular, and Molecular (BCM) Concentration will prepare students for graduate programs (MS or PhD), health professions programs , and careers in laboratory or research-based settings with universities , state or national science-based agencies, and pharmaceutical or industrial companies. The courses that comprise the BCM concentration prepare students to be competitive applicants for the following professional programs: - medical school (MD and DO) - physician assistant (PA) - dental school (DDS) - veterinary medicine (DVM) - pharmacy (PharmD) - optometry (OD) - physical therapy (DPT) - occupational therapy (OTD) - podiatric school (DPM) - chiropractic school (DC) - other health care careers Students can explore areas in biomedicine, physiology, public health, microbiology, genetics, and cellular, molecular, and developmental biology. In addition to fundamental laboratory skills, students have the opportunity to learn advanced techniques including molecular cloning, protein and nucleic acid analysis, cell culture, and genomic analysis. Extensive hands-on learning opportunities, supported by state-of-the art teaching and research laboratories, will empower students to apply their undergraduate education for employment or graduate/professional training.