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Bachelor of Science in Natural Sciences, Cell and Molecular Biology Concentration

Cell and Molecular Biology: Intricate Complexity

Positioned at the intersection of emerging technology and the most innovative scientific advances, you can choose to follow your curiosity to discover what living things are made of and how they function. If you can picture yourself in a lab, delving into biological and chemical processes within individual cells and understanding the design and function of molecules—PCC’s natural sciences major with a cell and molecular biology concentration is likely for you.

With the growth of biomedical research, cell and molecular biology has become an increasingly relevant field of concentrated study. The cell and molecular study at PCC provides a focused course sequence, lab‐based work, and hands‐on experience to give you the confidence you need to enter graduate school and eventually a career in a diverse range of disciplines. You’ll be prepared to analyze the very basics of life—from single‐celled organisms, viruses and bacteria, to genetics and DNA—from a Christian perspective. As you witness the fingerprint of the Creator, you’ll be poised to make a difference in biochemistry or molecular biology, biomedical or cancer research, and a host of other career options. PCC’s cell and molecular concentration will equip you to succeed at the next level.


Faith-Based Cell and Molecular Biology

As you learn about the complex processes of molecules and understand their design and function, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the Creator who engineered such design in the simplest of cells. Through a biblical worldview, you’ll see God in the intricate natural world that He created as you uncover endless mysteries.

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Cell and Molecular Biology Concentration Learning Outcomes

As a cell and molecular biology graduate, you will be able to:

  • demonstrate your understanding of key concepts necessary to solve problems in science and mathematics or explain life processes.
  • apply standard scientific conventions to present logical conclusions based on novel research data and the research of others.
  • use the biblical worldview to critique scientific claims and conclusions.
  • apply biblical principles to support decisions regarding ethical issues.
  • demonstrate proficiency in the theory and applications of cell and macromolecular experimental design and implementation.

Program Highlight

Molecular Biology

The world of molecular biology is an exciting place. In this capstone course (BY 449), students gain an in-depth knowledge of nucleic acid biology in living cells. As they build upon core concepts, they’ll study genetics and explore regulation of gene expression in more detail, emphasizing the underlying principles that support experimental study of nucleic acids, gene expression, and gene regulation. Although a lot remains to be discovered, the understanding of how molecular things live and function could lead to future discoveries.

Your Cell and Molecular Biology Future

What can you do with a cell and molecular biology concentration?

The cell and molecular concentration prepares students to advance their degrees in a specific biological discipline. PCC’s coursework in this program serves as a stepping-stone toward a future pursuing life science research, biotechnology, and so much more.

Here are a few of the countless career industries available to you.

  • Biochemistry
  • Biotech Industry
  • Dentistry
  • Education
  • Health Professions
  • Patent Law
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Science Research
  • Science Policy
  • Science Writing/Publishing

Faculty Highlight

Faculty Highlight

Dr. Sebastian Spencer

Dr. Sebastian Spencer

B.S., Pensacola Christian College
Ph.D., University of South Alabama


“I would advise prospective students to read regularly and take as many science and math courses as possible during high school. Analytical thought and critical reasoning skills are vital in the life sciences, and these skills are best developed through reading a wide range of topics and writing styles. These habits will prepare them for the course load they will need to take in college. My goal for students is that they receive a strong foundation in the biological sciences to be best equipped to enter graduate school and professional careers.

PCC provides a cell and molecular biology study to students wishing to pursue graduate education or careers in life science research and desiring this program in a Christian college. ”

Read more about Dr. Spencer
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Alumni Spotlight

Rachel Hexamer
Rachel Hexamer ’23

Ph.D. Student and Teaching Assistant at the University of Delaware


“I chose to attend PCC because of the biblical worldview presented in science classes and the excellent faculty who invest in their students and desire to see them succeed. The biblical worldview helped me to think critically about complex issues in bioethics, especially those relating to the sanctity of life. Through my career, I hope to encourage other Christians to become informed on such issues. Having a strong biblical foundation for your studies in cell and molecular biology will make the transition to a secular workforce or graduate program smoother and equip you to engage with others about worldviews.

I especially enjoyed the variety of upper‑level courses I would be able to take, such as Developmental Biology and Immunology. Most upper‑level biology classes are small, affording you the opportunity to participate in class discussions and get to know your peers. Lab courses also teach you essential techniques performed in research labs, so you will have the technical skills needed for your career. [They] were challenging, but the in‑depth material helped me to narrow down my interests in biology and led me to study developmental biology. My degree has given me the confidence and skills I need to have a strong start to my independent research. ”

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About the Cell and Molecular Biology Concentration

The purpose of the cell and molecular biology concentration is for the student to develop an understanding of the design and function of the cell while appreciating the complexity of that design as a fingerprint of our Creator. Students will complete focused coursework in cell and molecular biology that will prepare them for careers in life science research, biotech industry, or entrance to graduate school.

Recommended high school preparation for a cell and molecular biology concentration is 2 units of algebra, 1 unit of trigonometry, and 1 unit each of biology and chemistry. Opportunities are available to make up certain deficiencies. In this case, time required to complete a cell and molecular biology concentration could be expected to increase.

Students can apply for scholarships to receive financial aid.

See Scholarships
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Natural Sciences Career Support

With Career Services and Career Link, students can start making connections with employers while on campus during Career Fair events. These services provide tools and resources designed to empower you for a career in cell and molecular biology.

Need help? Career Services staff are ready to assist you in researching employment opportunities, exploring job qualifications, and providing mock interviews and résumé support.