BS Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at University of California, Santa Cruz

Programme overview

Research at the macromolecular, molecular, and atomic levels is revolutionizing our understanding of the fundamental processes of life. Students interested in joining this search are best prepared by undertaking coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and computer science.

Faculty: Physical and Biological Sciences Division | Department: Chemistry and Biochemistry | Study mode: full-time | Location: Santa Cruz, CA, United States

What you will study

Required courses listed in the catalogue include General Chemistry, Advanced General Chemistry: Molecular Structure and Reactivity, Cell and Molecular Biology, Organic Chemistry, Calculus with Applications, Calculus for Science, Engineering, and Mathematics.

Career pathways

Pursuing a double major that includes a chemistry major is a highly individual decision and should be based on a student’s educational and career goals.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Catalogue preparation guidance for the major (admission to the university is separate): Students must complete each of the following qualification courses, or their equivalents, by their campus-established declaration deadline with a grade of C (2.0) or better and with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.50 or greater:

Domestic applicants: USD 14,202 a year (2026-27). UC undergraduate Tuition for California residents first enrolled in 2026-27 (Tuition Stability Plan cohort rate); one rate for all undergraduate majors. Excludes Student Services Fee, campus fees, UC SHIP health insurance and records fee. Non-residents ad Source

Fall quarter entry (classes for fall 2026 began September 24, 2026); winter quarter entry (winter 2027 instruction begins January 4, 2027).

UC Application for fall 2027 opens October 1, 2026 and the filing deadline is November 30, 2026; the application is available online from August 1, 2026. Fall 2027 first-year decisions appear on the Admissions Portal late February to mid-March 2027; transfer decisions April 1-30, 2027. Transfer Academic Update due January 31, 2027; UCSC TAG filing period September 1-30, 2026.

UC Santa Cruz does not use ACT/SAT scores in its comprehensive review and selection process. Applications are made through the UC Application. Minimum GPA is 3.00 for California residents and 3.40 for non-residents and international applicants.

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