The Biochemistry major provides a student with a strong, well-balanced background in the biological, physical, and mathematical sciences. As a Biochemistry major, studies include macromolecular structure and function, cellular biochemistry, metabolism, gene expression, DNA and protein structure, DNA replication and repair, cell organization, communication, growth, aging, and death. Students are also required to take courses in physics, organic chemistry, and statistical measurements and methods used in research. Independent study and internships (typically during the junior and senior years, but could start in the freshman year) provide opportunities for experiential learning and working closely with the faculty, sometimes leading to authorship of original publications.
Learning Outcomes
Students will be able to:
Describe the basic concepts of chemistry, biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, and cellular biology
Critically analyze, and present the methods, results, and conclusions of scientific papers in the current biochemical literature, and orally present technical material in a clear and comprehensible form
Use a variety of laboratory instruments and techniques, interpret experimental results, and design new experiments
Demonstrate the ability to perform original research in biochemistry and molecular biology