Overview
Genetics and Molecular Biotechnology (GNBT) is the study of how DNA shapes the form, function, development, and diversity of living organisms, and how this knowledge can be applied to solve challenges in agriculture, medicine, industry, and the environment. Students choose from one of three concentration areas: Genetics and Genomics, Pre-Genetic Counseling, or Molecular Biotechnology, allowing them to tailor their education to their academic and career goals. Through coursework and hands-on laboratory experiences, students develop skills in genetic analysis, genome sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, bioinformatics, and biotechnology applications.
Graduates in Genetics and Molecular Biotechnology work in biotechnology, pharmaceutical, agricultural, environmental, food, and healthcare industries; research laboratories at colleges, universities, and government agencies such as the USDA, EPA, CDC, and NIH; regulatory and policy organizations; and education. The major also provides excellent preparation for graduate school and professional programs, including genetic counseling, medicine, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, clinical laboratory science, and doctoral research.
Visit the Botany & Plant Sciences Department website
GNBT Advising
Click on the drop-menus below for more information and materials related to the Plant Biology major.
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Change of Major Criteria for GNBT
To declare a major, student must be in good academic standing (quarter and cumulative GPAs at 2.0 and above). The Core Curriculum GPA must be 2.0 or higher with a C- or better in all core curriculum courses. If upper-division courses have been taken, a minimum upper-division GPA of a 2.0 is required. Must be able to complete the degree within 216 units. AP/IB units or transfer units earned prior to graduating high school are excluded when determining unit range for change of major criteria and 216 unit maximum. Must have a letter grade for all science courses. Freshman (up to 44.9 units)
Sophomore (45 - 89.9 units)
Junior (90 - 134.9 units)
Senior (135 units & above)
Completion of any two courses from the following:
- BIOL 005A/BIOL 05LA or BIOL 020
- CHEM 001A/CHEM 01LA
- CHEM 001B/CHEM 01LB
- MATH 007A/MATH 009A
- MATH 007B/MATH 009B
Completion of all previously listed criteria and the following:
- BIOL 005A
- BIOL 05LA or BIOL 020
- BIOL 005B
- BIOL 005C
- CHEM 001A
- CHEM 01LA
- CHEM 001B
- CHEM 01LB
- CHEM 001C
- CHEM 01LC
- MATH 007A/MATH 009A
- MATH 007B/MATH 009B
Completion of all previously listed criteria and completion of at least one of the following sequences (organic chemistry is preferred):
- CHEM 008A
- CHEM 08LA
- CHEM 008B
- CHEM 08LB
- CHEM 008C
- CHEM 08LC
- PHYS 002A
- PHYS 02LA
- PHYS 002B
- PHYS 02LB
- PHYS 002C
- PHYS 02LC
Completion of all previously listed criteria and the following courses:
- STAT 010
- GNBT 010
- BIOL 102
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Additional Information About the GNBT Major
GNBT Additional Documents
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Course Planning Materials
GNBT Degree Summary Sheets
- Coming soon...
GNBT Major Requirements Informational Sheet
GNBT Sample Four-Year Course Plan
GNBT Schedule of Course Offerings
GNBT Academic Advisors
CNAS Professional Academic Advisors provide students with individual guidance throughout their academic careers at UCR and help them achieve realistic academic goals. Professional Academic Advisors can assist you with declaring or changing your major or minor, course repeats, the process for taking courses outside of UCR, taking a leave from UCR, and questions about withdrawing or readmitting to UCR.
GNBT Lead Faculty Advisor
A Lead Faculty Advisor is assigned for each major. Faculty advisors are available to assist students with guidance regarding graduate or professional school, opportunities to participate in research, independent study, or internships. Faculty advisors also may provide students with advice and mentoring regarding career goals.
