Biochemistry Major

The biochemistry program leverages the expertise of faculty from the Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Biological Sciences departments. It encompasses a diverse range of disciplines, including organic, physical, analytical, biochemistry, enzymology, cell biology, microbiology, immunology, and genetics. 

During the first two years, students receive a comprehensive foundation in basic biology and chemistry, complemented by coursework in physics and mathematics. In the subsequent years, they delve into advanced topics such as biochemistry, molecular biology,  while continuing foundational courses in cell biology, genetics, as well as physical and analytical chemistry. Additionally, students have the flexibility to select elective courses from a curated list of biology and chemistry offerings, allowing them to tailor their studies to their specific interests. Hands-on research opportunities are abundant, enabling students to engage in undergraduate research projects within the field of biochemistry. This experiential learning fosters critical thinking and hones practical skills essential for future endeavors.

Our program equips students with a robust educational background, positioning them for further studies in genetics, molecular biology, physiology, cell biology, immunology, or graduate studies in biochemistry. Moreover, it serves as excellent preparation for medical school or other health professions.  Furthermore, students gain proficiency in experimental techniques vital for roles in biomedical research across various industries, including biotechnology.  From pioneering cancer research to innovative gene splicing techniques and harnessing solar energy through photosynthesis, biochemistry continues to drive groundbreaking discoveries and shape the future of science.

Goal 1: Students will know how to apply scientific reasoning and inquiry to investigate and analyze ideas, phenomena, or experimental data within the field of biochemistry.

Outcome 1.1: Students will be able to generate a testable hypothesis about an observed phenomenon or idea presented within the field of biochemistry.

Outcome 1.2: Students will be able to test hypothesis through reason, models, and experimentation by the manipulatioin of variables and making measurements to support or refute the hypothesis.

Goal 2: Students will demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning and proficiency in communication skills encompassing reading, writing, and oral presentation within the field of biochemistry.

Outcome 2.1: Students will be able to define, describe, and explain the key concepts of biochemistry.

Outcome 2.2 Students will be able to present results from chemical investigations and the biochemical literature in writing and/or orally.

The traditional undergraduate programs includes a minimum of 120 credits distributed across three components: A General Education component divided into Signature Courses, Variable Courses, and an Integrative Learning requirement; a Major and Divisional component; and Free Electives. In addition to course requirements as specified in each area, students must complete one certified course in each of the following overlay areas1:

  1. Diversity, Globalization or Non-western Area Studies,
  2. Ethics Intensive
  3. Writing Intensive, and
  4. Diversity
1

Overlay requirements are part of the 120 credit requirements

General Education Signature Courses

See this page about Signature courses

General Education Variable Courses

See this page about Variable courses. Six to Nine courses

General Education Overlays

See this page about Overlays.

General Education Integrative Learning Component

See this page about Integrative Learning Component. Three courses:

BIO 101
101L
Bio I: Cells
and Bio I: Cells Lab
4
PHY 105
105L
University Physics I
and University Physics Lab I
4
PHY 106
106L
University Physics II
and University Physics Lab II
4

 Major Requirements

BIO 102
102L
Bio II: Genetics
and Bio II: Genetics Lab
4
CHM 118Chemical Sciences Orientation1
CHM 125
125L
General Chemistry II
and General Chemistry Lab II
4
CHM 204Literature of Chemistry1
CHM 210
210L
Organic Chemistry I
and Organic Chemistry Lab I
4
CHM 215
215L
Organic Chemistry II
and Organic Chemistry Lab II
4
CHM 300Discussions in Chemistry1
CHM 320Physical Chem for Chem Bio3
CHM 341Molecular Structure Biochemist3
CHM 342Nucleic Acid Biochemistry3
CHM 343Intermediary Metabolic Biochem3
CHM 350Inorganic Chemistry3
CHM 361
361L
Analytical Chemistry
and Analytical Chemistry Laborator
4
CHM 390Chemistry Seminar (senior year)0
CHM 402Seminar in Chemistry II1
CHM 444LBiochemistry Laboratory I1
CHM 445LBiochemistry Laboratory II1
MAT 128Applied Statistics3-4
or MAT 162 Calculus II
Biochemistry Elective6
Total Hours50-51