Biochemistry (BS/MS 4+1 Program)

Program participants are expected to engage in full-time research experiences during the summers after their third, fourth, and fifth years.
Students must identify a research mentorthesis advisor and begin their undergraduate research no later than the summer after their third year. A research mentorthesis advisor must be identified before applying to the B.S.M.S. program.
At the beginning of the fourth year, the student’s thesis committee shall be constituted. The committee shall be composed of at least three voting members, chosen in consultation with the student, the thesis advisor, and the graduate coordinator. The committee shall include the thesis advisor and at least two other members from the department. If a research mentor from outside the department is directing the student’s research, the research mentor is an ex officio, non-voting member of the committee.
Before completion of the fourth year, the student must present a seminar (CHM 580 Literature Seminar in Chemistry & Biochemistry) that summarizes the literature relevant to the thesis project, outlines the proposed research, and presents any preliminary data. Within one week of the seminar, the student must meet with the thesis committee to discuss the presentation and the research plan. Failure to meet with the committee will result in a grade of IN in the course.
The student must apply to graduate when the undergraduate requirements are complete, so as to be able to register as a graduate student thereafter.
All matriculated graduate students (except those requiring a leave of absence) are required to be registered for at least one course for each fall and spring semester and one course during each summer from the semester of matriculation through the semester in which the degree is completed
The Department’s graduate coordinator and the student’s thesis advisor must approve a Graduate Program of Study before the first day of classes of the student’s fifth year of study.

Students may apply to the program after completing CHM 252 Organic Chemistry I; to be admitted, the student must have achieved an overall GPA of 2.50, an average GPA of 2.75 in chemistry courses, and a C or better in all chemistry, mathematics, biology, and physics courses.

Students are strongly encouraged to apply during their junior year, but applications from seniors who have significant research experience will also be considered. The initial application is made within the department, using the “Application for Admission to the B.S./M.S. Program” form available from the Department’s graduate coordinator. This application is to be submitted to the graduate coordinator.