UW-Parkside Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics Program Earns Reaccreditation

Published: January 15, 2025

Kenosha, Wis.- The Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics program at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside was recently reaccredited by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. It was re-accredited for the full seven-year term, through Dec. 31, 2031, due to the rigor of its curriculum and the success of the graduates, with over 95% of reporting graduates employed in the field, matriculated or having completed medical and graduate degrees.

UW-Parkside is one of only 110 university degree programs nationwide with the ASBMB accreditation. This includes being one of just four programs in the state of Wisconsin with this national recognition. The molecular biology and bioinformatics (MBBI) major at UW-Parkside integrates training in molecular biology with computer and programming skills essential for success in the life sciences.

Professor of Biological Sciences David Higgs, "The lab-intensive and hands-on learning High Impact Practices that are a focus of the MBB program is one of the key positives that the evaluators mentioned. We recognize and are appreciative of the long-standing support by administrators in the lab sciences and to maintain support for teaching labs. It helps the programs, and most importantly, it helps the students be successful," Higgs explains.

ASBMB praised UW-Parkside's extensive laboratory experiences for students, including the senior capstone and advanced laboratory courses, which emphasize both molecular and biochemical techniques and incorporate available advanced instrumentation. The program also demonstrates the seamless integration of core concepts from the beginning to advanced levels across the curriculum.

ASBMB accreditation is a national, independent, outcomes-based evaluation mechanism that recognizes excellence in B.S. or B.A. degree programs in biochemistry and molecular biology and related disciplines. Accreditation assists BMB educators in meeting the growing demand from collegiate accrediting bodies, university administrators and other stakeholders for regular outcomes assessment. Independent evaluation provides an objective tool for pinpointing strengths and weaknesses in their curriculum.

Since its founding in 1968, the University of Wisconsin-Parkside has been a trusted partner for the region's higher educational needs, empowering students to thrive, advancing applied knowledge, and developing talent for the future. The university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as certificates and pre-professional programs, designed to foster personal and professional growth through real-world and impactful learning experiences. Located in the dynamic Chicago-Milwaukee corridor, UW-Parkside offers unmatched access to world-class internships, professional networks, and endless career-building opportunities, placing students at the center of it all.

Media Contact:

Scott Rudie
Executive Director of Communication and Marketing
University of Wisconsin-Parkside
[email protected] | (262) 300-9549