So its finally time to pick our second year programs, so i was wondering if anyone currently in these programs (Biochem, Biomed specialization and Molecular Genetics) tell me a bit more about their experiences. What's the program like, what do you like and dislike about it?

Originally Posted by gcruz91

So its finally time to pick our second year programs, so i was wondering if anyone currently in these programs (Biochem, Biomed specialization and Molecular Genetics) tell me a bit more about their experiences. What's the program like, what do you like and dislike about it?

I have to say that second year for molecular biology and genetics is really general. You are taking pretty much the same courses as people in other programs. Third year seems to be more general but I can't tell you my experiences about it yet. The program just replaced a bunch of programs last year so you won't find anyone who completed level 3/4 of this program.

I am choosing between these three second year programs too.

One of the reasons I was interested in these programs was because of coop. In anyone here doing a science coop? How hard is it to get coop placement in Biochemistry?

And what is the main difference between the Biomedical and Biotechnology specialization?

Hey,
I'm going into biochem coop for next year. They take 20 people from the biochem program. They base the coop acceptance on your marks and an interview. So your chances really depend on how many people applied and how their marks and interview skills compare to yours.

I'm in the Biotechnology specialization. There isn't too much of a difference between the biomed and biotech specializations. In the 2nd year, you would take the same courses either way. There are some differences in upper years. Like you have to take an extra lab course in the biotech specialization.

You can check out the details here:

http://registrar.mcmaster.ca/calendar/current/pg1469.html

Best of luck