The prerequisite for applicants to the graduate program in biochemistry and molecular biology is a bachelor's degree with an undergraduate major in one of the natural sciences. Undergraduate course work should have included organic chemistry, the physics and mathematics required of a chemistry major and some courses in the biological sciences. A course in general biochemistry is also required, but may be taken during the period of graduate study. Previous course work in physical chemistry is Ily recommended. A minimum GPA of 3.0 in the natural sciences (including mathematics) is strongly required.
Applicants must pass satisfactorily the general and advanced (chemistry, biology or molecular biology) portions of the Graduate Record Examinations. In addition, the department requires at least three letters of recommendation from faculty members who can evaluate the applicant's potential for graduate work and independent research.
Applications should be submitted as early as possible in the academic year preceding the desired date of admission. Although students are normally admitted for the fall semester, exceptions are occasionally granted. In addition to the university application, a supplemental departmental application must be completed and returned with transcripts, GRE scores and letters of recommendation to: Graduate Admissions Committee, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 2011 Zonal Avenue, HMR 413, Los Angeles, CA 90033.
Students admitted to the graduate program in biochemistry are generally awarded departmental fellowships which pay for tuition and provide a stipend.
The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology offers a program for the Master of Science degree. The primary objectives of this program are to provide the necessary theoretical preparation for biochemical careers and to expose students to biochemical research activities culminating with the Master of Science degree. Goals of the program are to train students in preparation for (1) advanced biochemical research positions in industry and academia, (2) teaching positions at the community college level and (3) further doctoral study.
In general, admission requirements are the same as for the Doctor of Philosophy degree. The prerequisite for applicants to the graduate program in biochemistry is a bachelor's degree with an undergraduate major in one of the natural sciences. A minimum GPA of 3.0 in the natural sciences (including mathematics) is normally required. Applicants must satisfactorily pass the general and advanced (chemistry, or biology or molecular biology) portions of the Graduate Record Examinations. In addition, the department requires at least three letters of recommendation from faculty members who can evaluate the applicant's potential for graduate work and independent research. Demonstrated proficiency in the English language is required. Special circumstances may provide consideration for conditional admission.
The master's degree in biochemistry and molecular biology requires 34 units of elective graduate study to be determined by the student's Advisory Committee. Fourteen or more course units must be taken in biochemistry and molecular biology; eight units may be pursued outside the department and, upon approval, a maximum of 10 units of directed research in biochemistry will be applied to the degree. The Master of Science candidate has the option of either a thesis or non-thesis course of study. Each student's program will be tailored to suit individual needs and background.
Produced by the USC Division of Student Affairs, Office of University Publications, May 1, 1995