The undergraduate major in MCB offers a comprehensive course of study across a wide span of scientific inquiry.  The 33-unit major includes core courses in Introductory Biology (MCB 181R/L & 182), General Genetics (MCB 320), Biochemistry (MCB 460), Molecular Biology (MCB 411), and Cell Biology (MCB 410).  An additional requirement of a minimum 12 elective units encourages students to explore course work in the related fields of physiology, microbiology, evolutionary biology, and biochemistry.  Courses taken as part of these twelve elective units must also address writing-emphasis, laboratory, and in-depth study (Core Elective) requirements set forth by the department.   Independent laboratory research is a strongly encouraged supplement to undergraduate studies in the department.  For more details on the curriculum for the MCB major, refer to our check sheet (PDF).

With over 600 undergraduates, Molecular and Cellular Biology is one of the most popular majors at the University of Arizona. Our students include Flinn Scholars, National Merit Scholars, National Hispanic Scholars, Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society Members, UA Honors College Students, Centennial Achievement Award Winners, Robie Gold Medalists, Merill P. Freeman Award Winners, Truman Scholars, Nugent Award Winners, Galileo Circle Scholars, Marshall Scholars, and Fulbright Scholars.  In a recent class of our graduates, 25% graduated with honors, 20% were selected for the Phi Beta Kappa honor society, 75% participated in independent laboratory research, and a third were granted positions in the Undergraduate Biology Research Program.