Undergraduate Programs
Major in MCB
MCB majors explore fundamental questions about how organisms work at molecular, cellular, and systems levels and how these processes can go awry during injury, infections, and genetic diseases. Includes MCB Honors and MCB + Teaching Certificate.
Major in Neuroscience
How does our brain control movement? How do we learn new information and acquire skills? Neuroscience explores the biological, chemical, and physical processes behind these and other complex functions performed by our brain and nervous system.
Major in Biochemistry
Biochemistry encompasses biological and chemical sciences and explores processes in living systems at a molecular level. Majors investigate questions such as, What chemical reactions occur within cells, their functions, and how they are regulated.
Major in MCB + Data Science
How can data be leveraged to identify, treat, and manage health and disease? How arebiological datasets transforming research and industry? How can scientists enable efficient and accurate management of massive amounts of technical and biological data?
Additional academic opportunities
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Academic Advising
The MCB Center for Advising strives to create a welcoming and inclusive community of support to empower all our students to take ownership of their education, create an enriching academic experience, and achieve their academic, professional, and personal goals. Advisors are here to help you map out your path to achieve your goals, combine your education and passions for enriching careers, and help you build the skills and confidence to become your best self.
Courses
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Undergraduate Research
Our faculty are behind some of the most important discoveries in the last 150 years. MCB students can be part of this inspiring tradition of innovation. As an undergraduate student researcher, you will gain hands-on knowledge on how to use state-of-the-art technology, follow scientific procedures, and hone your analytical and communications skills. The experience also will prepare you for graduate school or a possible career in research.
Career development
The MCB Center for Advising is here to support our students and guide them on their journeys, whether that's going to medical school to pursue an MD, graduate school to obtain a PhD, or launching a career in industry.
Study abroad
We've designed international programs specifically with MCB, biochemistry, and neuroscience majors in mind. Opportunities include shadowing physicians or working in labs. Courses are guaranteed to count toward your major.
Scholarships & Awards
We're pleased to recognize our outstanding students with a variety of awards, scholarships, and fellowships from the school and its four departments: Biochemistry, Cell & Developmental Biology, Microbiology, and Molecular & Integrative Physiology.
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Guiding and empowering students to achieve their goals
Whether your goal is going to medical or dental school, pursuing a career in industry or academia, we'll guide you on your journey. We've developed an array of resources and opportunities to enhance your education and prepare you to achieve your dreams.
Career development, including resources on graduate schools, workshops, and internships.
Mentoring, from professionals, and peers, plus advice from MCB Leaders.
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Class of 2025
The Spring 2025 School of MCB Convocation will be at 9 a.m. Sunday, May 18, 2025, in Foellinger Great Hall in the Krannert Center for Performing Arts.
Contact us
MCB Undergraduate Instructional Program Office
127 Burrill Hall, MC-119
407 South Goodwin Avenue
Urbana, IL 61801
217-244-6239
undergrad@mcb.illinois.edu