Natural Sciences & Mathematics Programs

BIOCHEMISTRY

Biochemistry, the discipline that seeks to explain life in chemical terms, is an interdisciplinary major for students interested in working at the interface between biology and chemistry. The Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry program is designed to provide a strong background in the chemical and biological sciences preparing students in a broad range of career opportunities: biochemical research, biotechnology, graduate schools and professional schools in medicine, dentistry, veterinary sciences, pharmacy and physician assistant preparation.

Grade Minimum: Biochemistry majors must earn a minimum grade of C- in all BIOL and CHEM prerequisite courses.

Program General Goals:

The general goals of the Biochemistry major are to:

• Provide students with an in-depth knowledge of the chemistry of living organisms and experimental techniques required to determine structures and functions of biological molecules.

• Provide a curriculum that meets the standards set by ACS (American Chemical Society).

• Provide students with the knowledge and skills to meet the demands of the biotechnology/research industries or related fields after graduation.

• Prepare students for admittance and success in graduate and health professional schools.

• Develop an awareness of current and ethical issues in the discipline.

• Prepare students to be skilled in the proper procedures and practices for safe handling and the use of chemicals.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an integrated knowledge of the core concepts of biology and chemistry (as defined by ACS, ASBMB, and AAAS)*. These core concepts are:

   A. Structure & Function

   B. Reactions & Structural Transformations

   C. Energy

   D. Regulation & Homeostasis

   E. Information Storage & Transfer

2. Apply quantitative reasoning and critical thinking to problems and experiments.

3. Communicate original research, research within the chemistry and biochemistry fields, and current issues within the fields in both written and oral formats.

4. Design and carry out chemical and/or biochemical research utilizing appropriate techniques and instrumentation and proper safety procedures.

Note: For course descriptions for the Biochemistry major please see the Biology and Chemistry sections.

Honors in Biochemistry

To qualify for honors in Biochemistry the following criteria must be met:

• Maintain a 3.5 GPA overall + 3.5 GPA in Biochemistry major

• Complete application (Recommendation from faculty)

• Complete the Science Communications course with B+ or better

• Complete Independent Research course with B+ or better

• Complete Honors Research + Senior Honors Thesis (4 cr) with a B+ or better.