Overview
Quinnipiac University's MS in Molecular and Cell Biology Prepares Students for In-Demand Research Careers
The development of recombinant DNA technology has led to the new field of biotechnology and an increased demand for specialists. The Master of Science degree in Molecular Biology and Cell Biology graduate program prepares students for technical positions in biomedical research in the burgeoning field of molecular and cell biology.
The new biotechnology applies molecular biology and cell biology to the detection and treatment of human disease and is now a major division of pharmaceutical research laboratories and other research laboratories where demand for specialists is high. For technicians currently working in pharmaceutical research labs and other industry labs, the masters program enhances knowledge of state-of-the-art research techniques.
MS degree in Molecular Biology and Cell Biology Curriculum
The 34-credit program combines specialized training in laboratory research with a broad education necessary to function in this exciting and rapidly growing field. Quinnipiac's core curriculum provides comprehensive training in advanced biochemistry, molecular genetics, cell biology, and laboratory methods. In addition to core courses, students select from nearly 40 elective courses that cover a wide spectrum of biotechnology areas such as industrial microbiology, virology, immunology, cancer research, oncology, and molecular pathology.
Experienced faculty members of Quinnipiac University's MS in Molecular and Cell Biology program are dedicated to helping students succeed as biotechnology specialists. Program professors and instructors offer the specialized training and individual attention students need to prepare for positions in pharmaceutical and research laboratories.
The masters program is offered with a thesis or non-thesis option. Students choosing to complete a master's thesis can conduct original laboratory research under the guidance of a faculty member either on campus or in an industrial or hospital setting.
Core Courses in MS in Molecular and Cell Biology Curriculum
Core courses include "Molecular Genetics," "Molecular and Cell Biology," "Advanced Biochemistry," and "Molecular and Cell Laboratories I & II."
"Molecular Genetics" studies microbial genetic material including DNA replication, DNA repair, isolation of regulatory and structural mutations, plasmids R factors, gene cloning techniques, and the regulation of the synthesis gene products. Emphasis is placed on new genetic techniques used in medicine and industry.
"Advanced Biochemistry" offers insights into major areas of biochemistry. Hypotheses and theories are viewed with an orientation to application in modern commercial and academic settings.
The two "Molecular and Cell Laboratories" courses help students develop hands-on experience with basic cell biology and molecular genetics techniques, including cell fractionation and organelle purification, various protein/DNA electrophoretic procedures, receptor binding essays, and DNA/RNA purification.
Elective Courses in MS in Molecular and Cell Biology Curriculum
Students choose from nearly 40 elective courses such as "Advanced Microbiology," an intensive classroom and lab study that demonstrates the relevance and importance of microbiology in our society as it relates to the food industry, pathology, protection from disease, environmental issues, recombinant DNA research, and biotechnology.
The elective course "Principles of Epidemiology" involves analyses of prospective and retrospective studies, cross-sectional studies, and experimental epidemiology. It also features case studies of communicable and chronic diseases, immunology, occupationally induced diseases, and the use of biostatistics in studies.
"Molecular Pathology" focuses on the applications of molecular techniques to all facets of diagnostic medicine in such areas as genetic disease, infectious disease, cancer research, and identity testing.
Another elective, "Pathogenic Microbiology," focuses on the study of microorganisms causing disease in man and other animals. It considers infectious disease microorganisms including their biochemical, serological, and virulence characteristics. Fundamentals of pathogenicity, host response, therapy, and epidemiological aspects of diseases are examined. Laboratory work stresses the techniques used to isolate and identify microorganisms.
Quinnipiac University's Response to the Human Genome Project
The "New Genetics and Human Future" course focuses on the new genetics that have evolved after the historic completion of the Human Genome Project. In this new era in science, the timely course focuses on the latest achievements and applications of the new genetics, with emphasis on bioethical issues concerning genetic engineering, in vitro babies, stem cell science, cloning, and new eugenics, to name a few of the provocative issues.
One of the Nation's Top "Wired" Universities
Graduate students in Quinnipiac University's MS in Molecular Biology and Cell Biology program enjoy the many benefits of QU's reputation as one of the nation's "top wired universities." Quinnipiac's leading-edge campus network includes wireless in all public areas including residence halls, libraries, and classrooms. Public and classroom computer clusters provide hardware and software that complement student laptops.
Students have easy online access to email, the Internet, and course materials. Extensive, online library resources enhance the efficiency of course research and study with online bibliographic databases, journals and textbooks. As an innovative technology leader, Quinnipiac University sets the bar higher for other universities.
Nationally Recognized Graduate Programs Are Offered at Quinnipiac University in Hamden, CT
Quinnipiac University (QU) is an independent university in Hamden, CT, situated amidst picturesque, forested hills eight miles north of New Haven, CT. The university is 90 minutes from New York City and two hours from Boston. Founded in 1929, the renowned New England university has earned a national reputation for its high-caliber undergraduate and graduate programs in business, law, journalism, teaching, nursing, and the health professions.
Quinnipiac University Financial Aid Sources
The New England-based university's Office of Graduate Financial Aid helps graduate students understand the various educational loan options so that they can make the best decision for their personal, financial situation.
