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:
- Diversity, Globalization or Non-western Area Studies,
- Ethics Intensive
- Writing Intensive, and
- 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
General Education Integrative Learning Component
See this page about Integrative Learning Component. Three courses:
Code | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
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
Code | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
BIO 102 & 102L | Bio II: Genetics and Bio II: Genetics Lab | 4 |
CHM 118 | Chemical Sciences Orientation | 1 |
CHM 125 & 125L | General Chemistry II and General Chemistry Lab II | 4 |
CHM 204 | Literature of Chemistry | 1 |
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 300 | Discussions in Chemistry | 1 |
CHM 320 | Physical Chem for Chem Bio | 3 |
CHM 341 | Molecular Structure Biochemist | 3 |
CHM 342 | Nucleic Acid Biochemistry | 3 |
CHM 343 | Intermediary Metabolic Biochem | 3 |
CHM 350 | Inorganic Chemistry | 3 |
CHM 361 & 361L | Analytical Chemistry and Analytical Chemistry Laborator | 4 |
CHM 390 | Chemistry Seminar (senior year) | 0 |
CHM 402 | Seminar in Chemistry II | 1 |
CHM 444L | Biochemistry Laboratory I | 1 |
CHM 445L | Biochemistry Laboratory II | 1 |
MAT 128 | Applied Statistics | 3-4 |
or MAT 162 | Calculus II | |
Biochemistry Elective | 6 | |
Total Hours | 50-51 |