Molecular Biology (B.S.)

Program Overview

The Molecular Biology Major integrates studies in biology and chemistry for a strong foundation in the structure and function of macromolecules and an understanding of fundamental molecular processes of life. A common core of foundational courses from the traditional disciplines of chemistry and biology prepares the student for advanced coursework. Supporting courses in mathematics and physics are included in the major. Laboratory components common to most of the courses will provide opportunities to manipulate and analyze genes and their protein products. The Jordan Science Center together with the Kline Hall of Science offers well-equipped laboratories, research facilities, computer facilities, much instrumentation including a Real-time PCR machine, a scanning electron microscope, an NMR and an HPLC. Computers and specialized software allow the student to visualize complex molecular structures such as proteins and DNA or to simulate experiments to compare with results obtained in the laboratory.

The Molecular Biology Major emphasizes the study of genes and how their products control and organize living systems (single cells to whole organisms) and allow organisms to adapt to their environment. The structure and function of informational, structural, enzymatic and regulatory macromolecules will be studied with respect to how genes are regulated and how their products catalyze and control metabolic processes needed to sustain life. Students completing this major will be well prepared to continue their education in graduate programs or medical school, or to seek immediate employment in a variety of settings.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates from Messiah’s Molecular Biology program can:

1. Understand the nature of science, and the scientific method
2. Understand cell structure and function; metabolic processes; biological macromolecules; gene structure, expression and manipulation; and principles of genetic inheritance
3. Understand Mendelian Genetics and basic concepts of Developmental Biology
4. Understand foundational principles of animal morphology, physiology, systematic zoology and taxonomic techniques for animals
5. Understand foundational concepts of plant structure, function and taxonomy
6. Understand foundational content, practices and philosophical assumptions of biological sciences
7. Develop integrative skills relating Biological concepts with chemistry, mathematics and writing
8. Work with primary literature in Molecular & Cellular Biology
9. Participate in scientific investigation
10. Understand ethical issues related to Molecular Biology
11. Work as part of teams when conducting laboratory research
12. Present research results to students, faculty and scientists, in class or public settings
13. Think logically, analytically, creatively
14. Participate in lab-based opportunities that introduce and expand upon aspects of Mendelian Genetics, Cellular and Molecular Biology, and Biochemistry
15. Develop basic skills in microscopy, dissection, and pipetting
16. Search the biological literature and retrieve papers from journals
17. Operate computer-interfaced image recorders
18. Manipulate & analyze plasmid DNA, or chromosome images
19. Gain confidence in advanced microscopy skills
20. Compose technical lab reports in format similar to scientific journals
21. Use common software applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint to analyze and report scientific results
22. Understand fundamental techniques used to isolate, analyze and manipulate biological macromolecules (e.g. proteins or plasmids).
23. Articulate options for employment, voluntary service, and/or graduate education in biology
24. Bring Christian faith to bear on call as servant/leader  
25. Illustrate the splendor of God’s creation, inter-relatedness of living organisms & humanity’s calling to creation stewardship 
26. Grasp philosophical & historical foundations of Biological Sciences
27. Understand responsibilities of Christians related to use of new technologies in Human Genetics
28. Think synthetically, logically and creatively about Biological Sciences and Christian faith

Major Requirements

Complete the following for your major:

Six to eight credits from the following:

One of the following**:

Three to four credits from the following:

One of the following:

Four credits from the following**:

QuEST Requirements