Biochemistry, BS

The Biochemistry major specializes in biochemistry/molecular biology. Biochemistry majors are not eligible for a minor in chemistry or a minor in biology.

Requirements for the Major

Two Biology Electives

Students must complete two biology-only electives from the following:

Biology/Chemistry Electives

Students must complete two biology/chemistry electives from CH 200-level or higher for chemistry electives, including CH 420 and BL 200-level higher for biology electives (see restrictions on research courses).

Typical Program

An example of a typical program of courses is as follows:

Freshman Year

Fall Term

BL 118 - Introduction to Cellular and Molecular Biology *
BL 119 - Introduction to Cellular and Molecular Biology Lab *
CH 101 - General Chemistry I *
CH 105 - General Chemistry Lab I *
WR 100 - Effective Writing **
Language Core
Social Science Core

Spring Term

Sophomore Year

Fall Term

Spring Term

Junior Year

Fall Term

Spring Term

Senior Year

Fall Term

CH 311 - Physical Chemistry I *
CH 315 - Physical Chemistry Lab I *
Ethics Core
Biology/Chemistry Elective*†
Elective

Spring Term

Social Science Core
Elective†
Elective†
Elective†

Key:

* Required for major.
** Terms may be interchanged.
† Students are strongly encouraged to gain laboratory research experience and should consider enrolling in research courses (BL 481 /BL 482 or BL 491 /BL 492 or CH 420 ). CH 420 may be used to fulfill one course for the Biochemistry major if it is completed as a 3-credit course. Further research credits will count as free electives. Students should consult with their advisor when selecting these electives.

Notes:

Students must complete the diversity core requirement through a designated diversity core, major, or elective course (see Diversity Core Requirement under Curriculum and Policies).