Cellular and Molecular Biology
Qualifications
Overview
Molecular Biology is the field of biology that studies the structure and function of genes at a molecular level. The study of chromosomes and gene expression of an organism can give insight into heredity, genetic variation, and mutations.
Genetics is at the heart of the cellular and molecular biology. It is the science of heredity. Genetics provides a platform for the development of new drugs to combat diseases, methodology for the conservation of endangered species, and understanding evolutionary patterns and processes. Furthermore, it helps us to understand who we are and what we are, enhance our biosecurity, and even catch criminals. Genetics is a rapidly advancing field that creates challenges and opportunities for society.
Cellular and Molecular Biology and Genetics are strongly represented at UC. This area overlaps with other majors such as Biochemistry, Microbiology, and increasingly, Ecology and Environmental Science.
- Te Kura Pūtaiao Koiora | School of Biological Sciences has modern, well-equipped teaching and research laboratories with excellent technical support.
- There is a full suite of molecular biology and biochemistry equipment including real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) machines, DNA sequencing facility, confocal microscopy, and tissue culture and image processing facilities.
- Our broad School of Biological Sciences makes access to expert staff and equipment across the discipline easy.
Students undertaking postgraduate study in Cellular and Molecular Biology must meet the entry requirements of their chosen qualification and have a strong foundation in Biological Sciences and Biochemistry.
Prerequisites: Three courses from BCHM 301, BIOL 313, BIOL 330, BIOL 333, BIOL 335, BIOL 331, BIOL 351, BIOL 352.
UC offers the following postgraduate programmes in Cellular and Molecular Biology:
- Bachelor of Science with Honours
- Postgraduate Certificate in Science
- Postgraduate Diploma in Science
- Master of Science
- Doctor of Philosophy
See the individual qualification pages for more information on degree requirements.
Bachelor of Science with Honours majoring in Cellular and Molecular Biology
Students will complete CEMB 480 Research Project, as well as BIOL 411 and BIOL 412. Another 45 points are selected from BIOL 455, BIOL 456, BIOL 459–462, and BIOL 496. The remaining points may be selected from other courses as approved by the Programme Coordinator.
Postgraduate Certificate in Science majoring in Cellular and Molecular Biology
Students need to complete at least 45 points in BIOL 400-level courses for the major. In total 60 points must be completed for the PGCertSc from Biological Sciences and/or other Science courses.
Postgraduate Diploma majoring in Cellular and Molecular Biology
At least 120 points of courses, including BIOL 411 and BIOL 412, is required for the major. At least 30 points are chosen from BIOL 455, BIOL 456, BIOL 459–462, and BIOL 496, with the remaining points selected from other courses approved by the Programme Coordinator.
Master of Science majoring in Cellular and Molecular Biology
Part I of the MSc in Cellular and Molecular Biology is 120 points of courses, including BIOL 411 and BIOL 412, at least 45 points selected from BIOL 455, BIOL 456, BIOL 459–462, and BIOL 496, and the remaining points selected from other courses approved by the Programme Coordinator. Students need a B+ Grade Point Average to proceed to Part II of the degree.
Part II requires CEMB 690 MSc Thesis.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Cellular and Molecular Biology
In the PhD, students need to pass a thesis of original research in the Cellular and Molecular Biology field (CEMB 790 Cellular and Molecular Biology PhD).
Our graduates work in civil society organisations and for government agencies providing expertise to maximise the benefits of genetic technologies while minimising risk.
The broad and transferable skills gained from following this pathway open up many career options, many of which may include some component of laboratory work such as culturing micro-organisms, sequencing DNA, identifying species.
Graduates who specialise in Molecular/Micro Biology and Systematics may take up careers like:
- Genetic Services Specialist at PIC
- Laboratory Technician
- Laboratory manager
- Biotechnology technician
- Plant breeder.
Browse related subjects to Cellular and Molecular Biology
Choose an area that you are interested in and learn how UC's extensive range of study options can let you study what you want to.
Biological Sciences
Biology means the study of living things, from animals to plants to microbes. It covers a huge range of scales from molecules and cells to organisms, ...
Biochemistry
Biochemistry is the study of life at the cellular level, giving us insight into the history of all living species — animals, plants, bacteria, and viruses — and ...