91AV

Chemistry and physics are fundamental sciences that touch every aspect of our lives and the world around us. Chemistry is the study of matter — its chemical and physical properties, the chemical and physical changes it undergoes, and the energy changes that accompany those processes. Chemistry often is referred to as the central science, it rests upon the foundation of mathematics and physics and in turn, is the essential basis for the life sciences such as biology and medicine. Chemistry is largely an experimental science and has applications diverse areas of research, including the development of new drugs, the search for solutions to problems of environmental pollution, and the derivation of alternative energy sources. Much cutting-edge research in biology and medicine is being carried out at the level of atoms and molecules, the particles of matter upon which the study of chemistry is based.

Physics, too, is the study of matter and energy, viewed from a different perspective. To understand living systems and the universe in which we live requires an understanding of the chemical and physical principles that operate within them.

In addition to offering majors in chemistry, biochemistry and laboratory science, and minors in chemistry biochemistry and biophysics, the department fills a significant role for students in other programs through its introductory courses in chemistry and physics. Because of the fundamental roles of chemistry and physics in the biological, environmental, and health sciences, students in these programs benefit from the conceptual, quantitative, problem-solving, and communication skills stressed in the introductory courses, which form the foundation for later courses in the students' majors.

The bachelor of science degree in biochemistry, with its balanced curriculum, assures that each student will gain a solid biochemical foundation, while securing a substantial foundation in the other major chemical subdisciplines, including analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and physical chemistry. This major is an excellent choice for students who are especially interested in studying the infrastructure and applications of chemistry in biological systems. With appropriate choice of courses, graduates will be prepared for entry into graduate programs in chemistry, biochemistry, or the biomedical sciences, and well-prepared for professional programs in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, pharmacy, and many other fields that rely on chemistry as a fundamental science. Students wishing to enter the job market immediately after completion of their degree program have available to them a wide range of career opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Graduates will be especially well-prepared for entry-level positions in the rapidly growing biotechnology industry.

**Matriculated majors are expected to enroll in the University course sequences for general chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics. The following substitutions may be made with department permission: CHE 110 for CHE 150; CHE 111 for CHE 151; CHE 210 or CHE 210G for CHE 250; CHE 211 or 211G for CHE 251; PHY 110 for PHY 210; and/or PHY 111 for PHY 211.

Flexible program required courses

Select a minimum of three program elective courses for a total of 9 credits, no more than 3 credits of which may be CHE 410 and/or CHE 411. At least one program elective course of the three must be taken, CHE 375, CHE 417/417L, or CHE 450. Consult with your advisor for approval of program electives not listed. 

Students in this major can participate in the pre-health graduate school preparation tracks.

A minimum grade of C- must be achieved in all required science and mathematics courses used toward graduation in biochemistry, and a 2.00 cumulative grade-point average in the sciences is a requirement for graduation.

• Students will be able to describe and apply advanced biochemical information and concepts.
• Students will be able to demonstrate proficiency in safe and ethical laboratory practices and use of instrumentation standard to the discipline.
• Students will be able to clearly communicate biochemical information in both oral and written forms.
• Students will be able to work collaboratively in various team settings.
• Students will be able to compete successfully for placement in graduate programs or employment relevant to the field of study.

*If not chosen as a required course.

**Enrollment eligibility dependent upon availability and requires permission

Additionally, selected topics courses may be acceptable. Contact the academic director for more information.

There are no restrictions on counting a course towards this minor and towards other program requirements.

We offer qualified students the option of graduating with Honors. This includes significant research, scholarship or creative activity under the direction of a faculty member. Interested students should consult with their advisor. 

Courses completed at another accredited college can be transferred to this degree program. A transferred course must align in scope and content to the required course offered at 91AV. Otherwise, a course may transfer as a general elective. All courses completed must be no older than five years. Transferred courses for matriculated students must be approved by the department. Other restrictions apply. See Undergraduate Admissions for more information.

Preferred conditions for entry into the biochemistry major are completion of at least three years of high school mathematics and three years of high school science, including biology, chemistry, and physics. See Undergraduate Admissions also.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. Other expenses include books and housing. For more information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Financial Information section of this catalog.