Dec 07, 2024  
2024 - 2025 College Catalog 
    
2024 - 2025 College Catalog

Biochemistry, BS


View Chemistry & Biochemistry Department website

Biochemistry explores the molecular processes of life and reflects the intersection of chemistry and biology needed to understand these processes. The biochemistry major is designed to meet the needs of students interested in this interdisciplinary subject. Students completing a biochemistry major will be prepared for careers in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, for pursuit of graduate degrees in biochemistry or chemistry and for entry into medical, veterinary, dental or pharmacy schools. This degree program follows guidelines suggested by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology for an undergraduate degree in biochemistry.

Learning Outcomes

  • Students will be able to correctly use the fundamental concepts of biochemistry.
  • Students will be able to solve problems by understanding and implementing the stages of the research process.
  • Students will effectively communicate and disseminate the results of the scientific process to a diverse audience.
  • Students will demonstrate the ability to identify, locate, and evaluate primary literature.
  • Students will work both individually and collaboratively with other students and faculty.
  • Students will exhibit the skills of a successful professional.

Degree Requirements


General College Requirements


General College Requirements (see “Curriculum ” section), including the following requirements to satisfy the major:

Required Courses


Chemistry Courses (24 credit hours)


Biology Courses (14 credit hours)


Cognate Courses (16 credit hours)


St. Mary’s Project


Every biochemistry major must complete a St. Mary’s Project. This project may be in biochemistry or in another major discipline or study area. The guidelines in the selected area apply. 

Minimum Grade and GPA Requirements


Students must earn a grade of C- or better in all courses listed above, and maintain an overall GPA of 2.00 or better in these required courses.

Note: Students earning a degree in biochemistry may not pursue a second major in chemistry.

Sequence of Study


The following model is suggested as a sequence of study that satisfies the above requirements:

First Year:


Second Year:


Third Year:


Fourth Year: