Molecular Biology Certificate Program

Chairperson
Dr. Quinn C. Vega

Graduate Program Coordinator
Dr. Kirsten J. Monsen

The Molecular Biology certificate is designed for individuals seeking employment in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, those currently employed seeking to learn new techniques or update their skills and for those individuals that want to strengthen their preparation for further postgraduate work. The unique feature of the Molecular Biology certificate program is its focus on laboratory methodologies in molecular biology and applied instruction in modern, well-equipped biology laboratories.  Students in this program will gain experience in a variety of essential molecular methodologies including PCR, automated DNA sequence analysis, molecular cloning, gene expression, fermentation technology, site-directed mutagenesis, immunology and cell manipulation techniques.

All courses for the certificate program will be offered on evenings and/or weekends in the new 60,000 square foot Science Hall which features state-of-the-art biological teaching laboratories. A total of 14-15 semester hours (depending on elective course selection) are required for this program.

A list of current faculty in the Biology and Molecular Biology department can be found by clicking here.

REQUIREMENTS

I. Required Core Courses
BIOL 547, Molecular Biology I, 3 credits
BIOL 548, Molecular Biology II, 4 credits
BIOL 592, Graduate Colloquium, 1 credit
BIOL 598, Selected Techniques in Molecular Biology, 3 credits

II. Additional Required Courses: (choose one of the following)

BIOL 533, Advanced Cell Biology, 3 credits
BIOL 405, Cell Culture, 4 credits
BIOL 550, Topics in Microbiology, 3 credits
BIOL 512, Topics in Modern Genetics, 3 credits
BIOL 513, Instrumentation and Techniques for Biological Sciences, 4 credits
CHEM 570, Selected Topics in Advanced Biochemistry, 3 credits

Total Credits: 14 - 15

ADMISSION

All candidates must meet the basic admissions requirements for graduate study at Montclair State.  The completion of a major from an accredited college or university is preferred.  Candidates with degrees in closely related areas will be considered, although prematriculation coursework may be required.

DEADLINES

Credentials are processed as soon as they are received.  This program does not have a specific deadline; however, the Office of Graduate Admissions & Support Services recommends that students submit their credentials as far in advance as possible for the semester they plan to begin their studies to ensure a timely review of their application.

TO APPLY TO THIS PROGRAM, PLEASE VISIT http://www.montclair.edu/graduate/prospective/app.shtml