The Bachelor's degree program in Biology is designed to focus equally on biology at the molecular and the organismic level, while the Bachelor's degree program in Molecular Biology puts a much stronger emphasis on the molecular level. Both programs are identical in the first year.
Over the last 10 years, a fundamental change has taken place in the field of biology in that molecular methods have begun to take hold in the biological disciplines. They are no longer used only in biochemistry, genetics, or cell biology, but also in the fields of physiology, developmental biology, the neurosciences, behavioral research, and even in morphology, systematics, taxonomy, and ecology. As both molecular and cytological methods are used in research on animals, plants, microorganisms, and humans alike, the previous barriers between the traditional subjects of botany, zoology, anthropology, and microbiology have largely been lifted. This has led to a remarkable openness and permeability of the biological subjects for those biologists who have the relevant training in molecular biology. Thus, this group’s job prospects have clearly improved. At the same time, the demand for skilled workers thoroughly trained in the application of methods of molecular biology has greatly increased due to current genome and proteome research.
The Bachelor's degree program in Molecular Biology aims at providing students with both adequate basic knowledge of biology and the related fundamental sciences as well as expertise in molecular biology. The program emphasizes practical orientation and methodological skills. Upon successful completion, the degree program will enable students to independently perform assigned duties in the field. Thus, the Bachelor's degree is an initial professional academic qualification.