Biochemistry, B.S.

Students who major in chemistry or biochemistry begin their program with a laboratory-oriented introduction to the underlying principles of the discipline. This is followed by an in-depth study of the chemistry elements, compounds of carbon and other elements. Upper-level coursework includes physical chemistry, quantum and computational chemistry, biochemistry, quantitative and instrumental methods with emphasis on laboratory techniques, data analysis, and chemical information literacy. Oral and written technical communication skills development is an integral part of all courses with a capstone senior seminar presented by the students to the faculty members and students of the department. Students may also choose to participate in independent research projects with the professors.

To continue as a chemistry or biochemistry major, a student must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5 at the completion of 16 credits of freshman and sophomore chemistry courses.

All chemistry and biochemistry majors are required to attend departmental seminars.

All majors pursuing the chemistry or biochemistry degree are required to take the ETS Major Field Achievement Test in Chemistry, administered in CH420 Chemistry/Biochemistry Seminar, before graduation.

Chemistry and Biochemistry

Upon successful completion of the program of studies for Chemistry or Biochemistry the student will receive a B.S. or B.A. in Chemistry or a B.S. in Biochemistry and will have given evidence of the following outcomes and goals:

• Students will demonstrate knowledge and application of fundamental concepts and the theories of chemistry in five key areas of chemistry, including physical, organic, inorganic, analytical chemistry, and biochemistry through course exams, American Chemical Society standardized subject exams, and the Major Field Test in Chemistry.
• Students will be given the opportunity to develop skills related to effective communication, Including both technical writing and oral presentations.
• Students will be given the opportunity to develop laboratory skills needed to confidently function in a laboratory environment, including proper use of basic scientific Instrumentation and equipment such as balances, chemical glassware, pH meters, and UV-VIS spectrometers necessary to collect experimental data to evaluate substances and monitor chemical reactions. Students will demonstrate understanding of the safe handling and disposal of chemicals and hazardous materials.
• Students will be given the opportunity to enhance their problem solving skills via real and scenario-based scientific data analysis and interpretation. Upon successful completion of this program, students will be prepared to evaluate experimental data, identify, and clearly state predictions that logically flow from a hypothesis and able to propose how such predictions could be tested and/or validated.

To earn this degree, students must successfully complete at least 120 credits, including General Education requirements and the major requirements below.

Major Sequence

¹

General Education

²

Major