Programs in molecular biology teach people about the function and structure of molecules. Students learn how molecules transfer information and influence gene sequences. They learn to apply knowledge to studies in genetics, cell biology, and human disease.

Imagine two cells on their "cell phones." What would they "talk" about? They might chat about how things were growing, or what they did at the gene pool last night, or how their new metabolism diet was going. Molecular biology is all about how organisms function and communicate at the cellular level. Chains of molecules regulate everything a cell does, from how it behaves to how it responds to stimuli and grows.

The basis of this program is the molecular structures and processes that underlie the storage and transmission of genetic information, energy transfer, hormone generation, and such basic life processes as development, growth, and aging. The quest for understanding what a gene is gave birth to the discipline of molecular biology. This knowledge is critical to understanding all life processes.

In this program, you learn about DNA - the nucleic acid that is the basis of heredity. You also learn about the role of molecules in the process of genetic information transfer. In addition, you learn about problems in information transfer, as in mutations and genetic defects.

An important area of specialization in molecular biology is structural biology. Depending on your interests, you can also learn about molecules that create living systems. You can learn how molecular components join into units that make cells or tissue. You also study the structure and processes of molecules.

You can apply your training in molecular biology to the study of diseases such as cancer or sickle cell anemia. It is also useful in the study of growth and aging. You can also use it to improve world food supplies by developing genetically engineered crops. Career opportunities exist in a variety of industries including biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and research.

Over 100 colleges in the U.S. offer a bachelor's degree program in molecular biology. These take four years of full-time study beyond high school. A bachelor's degree prepares you for graduate studies or for an entry-level position as a research assistant or lab technician in some settings. It is also good preparation for medical, dental, and veterinary school.

Some colleges offer a combined bachelor's and master's program. You can complete a B.S./M.S. program in four years beyond high school, but it may require attending summer sessions.

Keep in mind that different schools will have different specializations in this field. A few schools will offer specializations in structural biology, for example, while others won't offer it all.

Most positions, particularly in research, require at least a master's degree. A graduate degree allows you to specialize more. It takes about six years beyond high school to complete a master's degree program. A Ph.D. in molecular biology may take an additional two to three years. About 100 universities offer a master's degree, and over 150 offer a Ph.D.

Some students enhance their job prospects and gain valuable laboratory experience by taking a certificate program focusing on a specialized laboratory technique. A program such as this may concentrate in:

• Biotechnology
• Cell Culture
• DNA Sequencing and Synthesis
• Genetic Engineering
• In vitro Cell Biology
• Protein Engineering
• Recombinant DNA Technology

Graduate students usually choose to focus on a particular process, molecular structure, or specific application of molecular biology.