Biochemistry (BS)
The major in biochemistry is jointly administered by the departments of biology and chemistry and is approved by the American Chemical Society. The rapidly growing field of biochemistry involves the application of biological and chemical concepts and techniques to the understanding of life processes such as the determination of hereditary traits, utilization of energy, propagation of nerve signals, and the molecular basis of physiological and pharmacological phenomena. Biochemists are involved in agriculture, medical research, biotechnology, nutritional research, and other areas at the interface of chemistry and biology.
Students majoring in biochemistry will be well equipped for professions in research and industry, as well as the pursuit of graduate study in biochemistry, medicine, genetics, and other related fields. The program consists of a core of chemistry and biology courses beginning in the first year and continuing for the first three years, a choice of two 300-level elective courses in chemistry and/or biology, and a one-year independent study project culminating in a thesis. In addition, there are six prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, calculus, and physics. The following list of requirements includes both the core and the prerequisite courses. A student may find it convenient to take MATH 120 and/or MATH 121 during the summer. The advanced biochemistry lab, CHEM 347, provides an opportunity to learn more advanced techniques in biotechnology in a fully research integrated environment.
Degree Requirements
ACS Certified Major in Biochemistry
First Year
Junior Year
Senior Year
A 300-level elective in biology or chemistry.
Biochemistry majors do their independent study research either in chemistry with a thesis and an oral defense or in biology.
| CHEM 355 | Independent Study with Thesis | Variable |
| OR | |
| BIOL 350 | Independent Laboratory Research | 4 |
If registered for CHEM 355, biochemistry majors must also register for CHEM 390 Chemistry Seminar.
Sophomore Year
To meet the ACS Certification standards described above under the chemistry major, biochemistry majors must also complete CHEM 248