Faculty: Betush, Chapp, Coenen, Deckert, Garcia, Hersh, Humphreys, Kadmiel, Murphree, Nelson, Persichini

The Biochemistry major is a program in the Mathematics and Natural Sciences Area of Study. Biochemistry majors may not minor in Biology or Chemistry.

Biochemistry Major Learning Outcomes

Students who successfully complete a major in Biochemistry are expected to be able to:

• Think critically and creatively to develop appropriate biochemical research questions;
• Use the scientific method to carry out laboratory investigations that address biochemical questions;
• Clearly and persuasively communicate the results of scientific investigations in written and oral forms;
• Use an understanding of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics concepts to organize and evaluate the research findings found in the primary Biochemistry literature;
• Explain how science and technology impact society, both positively and negatively, with attention to the limitations of science;
• Use and synthesize the fundamental concepts of Chemistry, Biology, and Physics to analyze and solve complex problems involving living systems.

The Biochemistry Major

The Biochemistry major, consisting of 62 or 64 credits, leads to the Bachelor of Science degree. At graduation, Biochemistry majors must have a GPA of at least 2.0 in  the major. The calculation is based on the grades of all required courses for completion of the major. Only the most recent grade is considered for courses that have been repeated. No courses required for the major may be taken on a Credit/No Credit basis, Students may present a total of 8 transfer credits toward the major, exceptions must be approved by the department chair.

The Biochemistry major requires a group of introductory and upper level courses from the Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics Department. In addition, majors must take the Junior Seminar offered by one of the participating departments (BIO 580  or CHEM 584 ). Students may choose an area of specialty within the major via additional electives and the selection of an appropriate Senior Project (BCHEM 600  and BCHEM 610 ).