Biology: Cellular and Molecular Biology Option

The Bachelor of Science in Biology: Cellular and Molecular Biology Option at Kean is a rigorous 120-credit program designed for students who are passionate about exploring the processes that drive life at the cellular and molecular levels. This degree prepares graduates for advanced studies and diverse career paths in health care, biotechnology, research, pharmaceuticals and related fields.

Kean's cellular and molecular biology program integrates foundational courses in biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics with advanced studies in genetics, biochemistry, immunology, molecular genetics and bioinformatics. Students participate in more than 400 hours of hands-on laboratory experience in modern, fully-equipped labs, building technical proficiency in essential laboratory methods used in leading molecular and biological research. Faculty mentorship, independent research opportunities and participation in events like Kean Research Days provide additional practical experience, real-world insights and professional development.

Graduates are well prepared for research-focused graduate programs in molecular biology, biotechnology and biomedical fields, as well as pre-professional tracks in pre-med, pre-dental, pre-veterinary and pre-pharmacy.

A Kean student and a faculty member conduct research in a laboratory — Brenna Levine, Ph.D., (right) conducts a laboratory test with a student.

What You Learn

Master core concepts in cellular and molecular biology, including genetics, biochemistry and immunology.
Develop strong critical thinking, analytical and scientific reasoning skills to solve complex biological problems.
Gain hands-on proficiency in essential laboratory techniques such as microscopy, molecular cloning, PCR and DNA sequencing.
Complete more than 400 hours of hands-on laboratory experience in modern labs equipped with advanced scientific instrumentation.
Design and conduct experiments across biology, chemistry, microbiology, genetics and biochemistry, and be able to analyze and interpret results.
Integrate scientific knowledge to address real-world challenges in molecular biology, biotechnology, biomedicine and health care.
Participate in independent study and undergraduate research experiences under expert faculty mentorship.
Present research findings at academic conferences and University events, including the annual Kean Research Days event.

Contact Us:

Program Contact: Maria Shumskaya, Ph.D., Associate Professor
Email: mshumska@kean.edu
Office Location: George Hennings Science Building, C-116

Faculty

Maria Shumskaya, Ph.D., Associate Professor
Brenna Levine, Ph.D., Assistant Professor
Renalison Farias Pereira, Ph.D., Assistant Professor
Carissa Davis, Ph.D., Lecturer
Evros Vasillou, Ph.D., Professor
Supratik Kar, Ph.D., Assistant Professor
Laura Lorentzen, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences
Matthew Niepielko, Ph.D., Assistant Professor
Cecil J. Saunders, Ph.D., Assistant Professor

Program Guide Sheet

4-Year Plan

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