Biology Graduate Programs
Master of Science in Molecular Biochemistry and Biophysics
New advances in our understanding of biological function can be expected from a synthesis of molecular genetics, biochemistry, and insights gained from molecular structural information. Individuals with a quantitative, physical approach will be best placed to be innovators in the field. Molecular Biochemistry and Biophysics programs complement more traditional graduate programs in biology, chemistry and physics by offering an integrated, molecular-based approach to understanding biological problems, taking insights from all three disciplines.
A major focus of the program is on biophysical approaches to determining the structure of macromolecules and macromolecular assemblies. Faculty advisers are chosen from any of the participating departmental faculty regardless of their affiliation to a particular discipline; a particular strength of the participating faculty is structural studies. Molecular Biochemistry and Biophysics students will have access to state-of-the-art x-ray facilities at the nearby Advanced Photon Source, currently one of the most intense x-ray sources in the world.
Degree Requirements
Along with the required coursework listed below, students will be required to complete a comprehensive exam. Students also must complete a thesis or a library research project.
Thesis Option
The thesis option is designed for individuals planning careers as experimental biologists, including those who may wish to pursue a Ph.D. This option is available on a competitive basis. Students choosing the thesis option must complete six credit hours of thesis research. Students must also prepare a written thesis based on laboratory research.
Non-Thesis Option
The non-thesis option is intended as a degree to meet the needs of teachers, science administrators, policy makers in the life sciences, patent attorneys and others. Students who elect the non-thesis option must complete a library research project in BIOL 572, Literature in Biochemistry.
Required Courses
A master's student must complete 33 credit hours of approved graduate work. The following courses are required:
| BIOL 445 | Cell Biology | 3 Credits |
| BIOL 512 | Advanced Biochemistry | 3 Credits |
| BIOL 515 | Molecular Biology | 3 Credits |
| BIOL 550 | Bioinformatics and Biotechnology | 3 Credits |
| BIOL 555 | Macromolecular Structure Determination | 3 Credits |
| BIOL 572* | Literature in Biochemistry | 3 Credits |
| BIOL 591 | Research | 6 Credits |
| CHEM 538** | Physical Biochemistry | 3 Credits |
| CHEM 550** | Chemical Bonding | 3 Credits |
| CHEM 591* | Research | 6 Credits |
| PHYS 591* | Research | 6 Credits |
| Elective* | 3 Credits |
*Students must complete six credit hours of BIOL 591, CHEM 591, or PHYS 591 or BIOL 572 and one additional three credit hour elective.
**Students must complete either CHEM 538 or CHEM 550.