Overview

The Biological Sciences (Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology) at the University of Southern California offers a comprehensive scientific education focused on the mechanisms of life. This degree integrates core biological principles with advanced chemical and physical sciences to understand complex cellular phenotypes.

Students benefit from the extensive resources of the USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, which provides a diverse academic environment. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking through the evaluation of current research literature and direct engagement with faculty. Facilities include modern laboratories where undergraduates conduct essential experimental research.

The teaching approach emphasises a transition from foundational knowledge to specialised expertise in molecular pathways.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 73260 per year
National fee: USD 73260 per year
Local fee: USD 73260 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum begins with foundational collateral sciences in chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Upper-division core requirements and electives provide deeper specialisation in molecular and cellular processes. Modules may include:

Molecular Biology
Genetics
Biochemistry
Applications of Molecular Biology to Medicine
Biology of Cancer
Genetics through the Scientific Literature
Genome Science
Molecular and Computational Biology
Developmental Biology
Advanced Molecular Biology
Advanced Biochemistry
Practical Analysis of Biological Data in R
Microbiology
Advanced Cell Biology
Microbiology for a Sustainable Future
Cancer Immunology
Immunology
Microscopy and Spectroscopy of Biological Systems
Biodemography of Aging
Muscle Physiology
Computational Genome Analysis
Structural Bioinformatics: From Atoms to Cells
Systems Biology: Modeling the Dynamics of Life

Careers with Biological Sciences (Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology)

Graduates are well-prepared for diverse professional paths in the global healthcare and scientific sectors. The programme provides a robust foundation for those pursuing post-graduate study in medicine or advanced biological research. Common career destinations include roles in biomedical research, clinical practice, and biotechnology industries.

The rigorous training in data analysis and laboratory techniques makes graduates highly competitive for positions in pharmaceutical companies and genomic laboratories. Additionally, the focus on molecular and cellular mechanisms supports careers in specialised fields such as immunology, cancer biology, and genetic counselling.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Biology: Organismal Biology and Evolution
Advanced General Biology: Organismal Biology and Evolution
Biology: Cell Biology and Physiology
Advanced General Biology: Cell Biology and Physiology
Molecular Biology
Genetics
Biochemistry

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-10 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

130

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Los Angeles, United States

Disciplines

Microbiology Zoology View 65 other Bachelors in Zoology in United States

Join for free or log in to access our complete career info list.

Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

130

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Official Test Scores
Transcripts: First-year applicants should submit official transcripts of all high school and college coursework completed.
Letter(s) of Recommendation: One letter is required from either your school counselor or a teacher from your school. Applicants to the School of Cinematic Arts must submit three letters of recommendation.
Portfolio, resumé and/or additional writing samples: if required by major. Performance majors may also require auditions.
Submit your fall grades (when available)

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

73260 USD / year

≈ 73260 USD / year
Out-of-State

73260 USD / year

≈ 73260 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

73260 USD / year

≈ 73260 USD / year

Living costs

Los Angeles

United States

1520 - 2570 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Get Visa Support

Get personalized guidance from a certified VFS Global advisor and save 20% through Studyportals.

Avoid common visa mistakes and delays
Know exactly what documents you need
Get a clear checklist tailored to your situation

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Biological Sciences (Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology).

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Los Angeles

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

Our partners