In the School of Molecular & Cellular Biology, undergraduates receive a broad, rigorous education in biological sciences and can tailor the curriculum to their interests. We offer three degree programs and many enriching opportunities in and outside of the classroom.

Molecular & Cellular Biology  Neuroscience  Biochemistry  Learn more

Prospective students for majors in the School of Molecular and Cellular Biology

First-year students (freshmen)

Major in MCB:

Incoming first-year students who are interested in majoring in Molecular & Cellular Biology should apply for admission to the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences (LAS) and choose biology as your intended major. During your first year you will take an introductory course in Molecular and Cellular Biology (MCB) and an introductory course in Integrative Biology (IB). Based on experience in both classes, you will choose a major to declare, typically during the second semester of your first year. View slides from our biology admitted student/illini days presentation from 2024.

Major in Neuroscience:

Incoming first-year students interested in majoring in Neuroscience should apply for admission to the College of LAS and choose Neuroscience as their intended major. View slides from our neuroscience admitted student/Illini days presentation from 2024.

Major in Biochemistry:

Incoming first-year students interested in majoring in Biochemistry should apply for admission to the College of LAS and choose Biochemistry as their intended major.

Transfer students

The process for transferring to the MCB, Neuroscience, and Biochemistry majors varies depending on your current status, whether you're a student at another institution, another program in the College of LAS, or in another unit at Illinois.

Visit the Transferring Information Page for detailed information on the process that applies to you.