The option that consists of a protein coat surrounding a molecule of genetic material is "viruses." Viruses are infectious particles that contain genetic material (either DNA or RNA) encased within a protein coat called a capsid. The protein coat provides protection to the viral genetic material and also plays a role in attaching to and infecting host cells. Prions, on the other hand, are misfolded proteins that can cause neurodegenerative diseases and do not have a surrounding protein coat. Bacteria, protists, and archaea are all types of organisms and do not typically possess a protein coat surrounding their genetic material.