The biochemistry major offers students the opportunity to delve into the science that is at the interface of two distinct disciplines by learning about the chemistry of biology and the biological applications of chemistry. Students will be equipped for future work, research and study by being able to draw from experiences in both disciplines. They will be comfortable with the terminology in both disciplines and be able to use the latest techniques in the field. For those who wish to continue their studies in professional programs, they will be prepared and competitive for the career paths of their choosing.
Degree Requirements
Majors must satisfy University Core Curriculum requirements and the College speech requirement, COMM 210. Biochemistry majors must complete the following courses and sufficient electives to total at least 120 credits. Majors are encouraged to take Microbiology, Biotechnology, Bioethics and three credits of Internship/Research in order to obtain the biotechnology certification along with the B.S. in Biochemistry.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry:
| CHEM | 191, 192 | Principles of Chemistry I and II and Labs | |
| CHEM | 301, 302 | Organic Chemistry I and II and Labs | |
| CHEM | 311 | Analytical Chemistry and Lab | |
| CHEM | 312 | Instrumental Methods of Analysis and Lab | |
| CHEM | 320 | Inorganic Chemistry and Lab | |
| CHEM/BIO | 390 | Biochemistry I and Lab | |
| CHEM | 391 | Chemical Thermodynamics and Lab | |
| CHEM/BIO | 395 | Biochemistry II | |
| CHEM/BIO | 395L | Biochemistry II Lab | |
| CHEM/BIO | 450 | Research in Biochemical Sciences | |
| MATH | 213, 214 | Calculus I and II and Labs | |
| PHYS | 201, 202 | Physics I and II and Labs | |
| BIO | 103 | Biology I and Lab | |
| BIO | 200 | Genetics and Lab | |
| BIO | 325 | Cell Biology and Lab | |
| BIO | 331 | Bioinformatics and Lab |
Plus an additional eight credits from the following courses, at least one must be a Chemistry course.
| BIO | 315 | Animal Physiology and Lab | |
| BIO | 323 | Developmental Biology and Lab | |
| BIO | 330 | Neurobiology | |
| BIO | 340 | Biotechnology | |
| BIO | 370 | Virology and Lab | |
| BIO | 380 | Parasitology and Lab | |
| BIO | 392 | Animal Nutrition | |
| CHEM | 392 | Quantum Chemistry and Lab | |
| CHEM | 421 | Advanced Chemistry Lab I | |
| CHEM | 431 | Advanced Inorganic Chemistry | |
| CHEM | 432 | Advanced Organic Chemistry | |
| CHEM | 433 | Advanced Physical Chemistry | |
| CHEM | 434 | Advanced Environmental Chemistry |
*NOTE: Biology or Chemistry may not serve as a second major or minor for a Biochemistry major and Biochemistry may not serve as a second major or minor for a Biology or Chemistry major.