The accelerated dual-degree program allows students to complete both the BS in Biology and the MS in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology in 5 years. The program provides students with the professional training required for the increasingly dynamic job market in the pharmaceutical, biotech, biochemistry, and molecular biology fields, by integrating a unique, cutting-edge curriculum with a year-long in-depth focus on an independent research project.
Students can apply for acceptance into the dual degree program when they are in the Junior year of their BS in Biology. In their Senior year, students in this program take 12 graduate BMB credits (3-4 courses) in place of 4 BIO elective courses (12-16 credits). In their 5th year, students take the remaining BMB courses they have not already completed. The benefit of completing the joint program (versus both programs separately) is that students can take graduate courses in their fourth year, freeing up time in their final (5th) year to focus their attention on finalizing their research projects. A joint degree program also enables students to start research with a Pace faculty member during their Senior year for their capstone course, or even earlier, thus giving them a head start on research.
Total Undergraduate Major Credits: (128)
Total Credit Hours for the combined degree: 150 (minimum)
12 credits of BMB graduate courses count toward undergraduate and graduate degree.
Additional Graduate Credits: (22)
Note: Students who meet the admissions criteria of this program must file a formal application with the Office of Graduate Admissions during their junior year of study after receiving approval from their faculty adviser. Transfer students may be admitted who satisfy all course and admission requirements.
Total Undergraduate and Graduate Credits, and Total Credit Hours: 150
The criteria for admission to the Graduate portion of the program are as follows:
Completion of at least 64 undergraduate credits and junior class standing with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.
GRE is not currently required.
Transfer students may be admitted to the program if they have satisfied all requirements listed above.
Major Completion Summary
Major Completion Summary
Requirement |
Credits |
University Core Credits |
44-55 |
Major Requirements |
54-55 |
Open Electives |
40-52 |
Total Credits |
150 |
University Core Requirements (44-55 Credits)
See complete University Core requirements.
Note: Various major-required math and science courses listed below may fulfill foundation, area of knowledge, and/or core requirements. Please consult with an academic advisor.
Major Requirements (54-55 Credits)
Required Courses