Bachelor of Science in Cell and Molecular Biology
Explore Biology at the Cellular and Molecular Level
About the Program
Build a Strong Scientific Foundation
The Bachelor of Science in Cell and Molecular Biology (B.S.-CMB) at the University of St. Thomas offers a comprehensive, research-intensive curriculum focused on cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry and genetics—key fields driving innovations in modern biomedical research and transforming the practice of medicine.
Unlike the B.A. in Biology, the B.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology places a greater emphasis on student research, laboratory study and advanced scientific coursework. This intensive degree track is designed for students interested in medicine, dentistry, biomedical research, biotechnology and other careers in the life sciences.
What You Will Study
Laboratory and Research Experience
The cell and molecular biology program is designed to help students develop advanced scientific knowledge, critical-thinking skills and practical laboratory experience. Students participate in hands-on undergraduate research by joining faculty-led laboratories, where they conduct independent scientific projects and receive training to become independent scientists.
The integration of lecture-based learning, laboratory experience, research and professional training provides an authentic curriculum centered on experiential education and scientific practice. Graduates of the B.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology are well prepared for careers and advanced study in:
- Medicine and other health professions
- Dentistry
- Biomedical research
- Biotechnology
- Graduate and professional programs
- Laboratory science
The excellence of the program has received national recognition through its accreditation by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB)—a distinction that sets it apart among undergraduate biology programs.
Program Learning Outcomes
Learn by Investigating
1. Mastery of Foundational Scientific Concepts
Students will learn to:
- Build a solid understanding of molecular biology, cell biology, genetics and biochemistry
- Connect scientific facts and theories within conceptual frameworks and apply them to new problems
- Collect, analyze and synthesize data using the scientific method
- Draw logical, evidence-based conclusions
- Recognize and engage with the interdisciplinary nature of science
2. Development of Scientific Professionalism
Students will learn to:
- Understand and follow professional ethics and standards
- Communicate scientific ideas effectively in written, oral and electronic formats for diverse audiences
- Apply quantitative and qualitative methods to research and problem-solving
- Critically evaluate scientific literature
- Develop proficiency in experimental design and statistical inference
- Collaborate productively in teams and work independently
- Cultivate curiosity, objectivity, skepticism and scientific reasoning
- Create and refine a personal career plan
- Develop effective career-management skills
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes UST’s B.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology unique?
The B.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology at the University of St. Thomas in Houston offers a research-intensive biology education designed to prepare students for careers and advanced study in the life sciences and health professions. Students combine advanced scientific coursework with faculty-mentored laboratory research and independent scientific projects.
The program has also received national recognition from the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, distinguishing it from UST’s other biology degree options.
Is UST’s B.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology accredited by ASBMB?
The B.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology is accredited by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB). This national distinction recognizes that the program meets rigorous standards for undergraduate education in biochemistry and molecular biology.
It provides students pursuing a cell and molecular biology degree in Houston with a strong scientific foundation for employment, graduate education and professional school.
How much research experience do students gain?
The B.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology features a research-intensive curriculum. Students gain hands-on experience by completing independent research projects under faculty mentorship.
This experience helps students develop the scientific knowledge, laboratory skills, critical thinking and research competencies needed for graduate study, professional school and careers in the life sciences.
Does the program prepare students for medical or dental school?
Yes. The program offers full pre-medical/pre-dental alignment, with a 100% match between BS-CMB science coursework and the science requirements for pre-medical and pre-dental programs. This makes the B.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology a strong choice for students seeking a biology degree in Houston while preparing for medical school or dental school.
How does the program provide flexibility in students’ coursework?
Students in the B.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology benefit from reduced Core Curriculum requirements, with a minimum 14-credit-hour reduction in Core requirements. This provides more room for advanced science, laboratory and research coursework supporting their academic and professional goals.
Students can therefore complete a rigorous cell and molecular biology degree at a Catholic university in Houston while focusing more extensively on their chosen scientific field.
LEARNING BEYOND THE LAB
Biology Faculty and Leadership
Alexandra Simmons Nout, Ph.D.
The Biology Department is led by Alexandra Simmons Nout, Ph.D. Biology faculty guide students through coursework, laboratory experiences, research, and preparation for graduate or professional opportunities.
