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Jul 31, 2025
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2025-2026 Undergraduate Academic Catalog
Biochemistry, BS
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By majoring in biochemistry, students will obtain a solid foundation in fundamental biochemical concepts; acquire the tools to independently investigate a topic; and develop habits of critical thinking and communication that reinforce many of the College’s core curriculum goals. This program of study prepares students for many options, such as advanced study in graduate or professional schools, teaching at the K-12 level, or employment in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industries.
Learning Outcomes
Students graduating in the biochemistry major will:
- DEMONSTRATE knowledge in core concepts of biochemistry; including energy and matter transformation, macromolecular structure and function, information storage and flow, and homeostasis.
- APPLY qualitative and quantitative biochemical knowledge to different contexts.
- DEMONSTRATE methodological competency in experimental biochemistry, including developing a hypothesis, designing and conducting appropriate experiments, and interpreting data using appropriate equations, quantitative modeling, and simulation tools.
- UTILIZE and critically ASSESS the scientific literature in biochemistry and related fields.
- Effectively COMMUNICATE concepts and/or research in biochemistry and related fields, in both written and oral formats.
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Lower Division Chemistry
The following lower-division chemistry courses are required for the major. Because biochemistry bridges the fields of biology and chemistry, the lower-division requirements are nearly the same as those for the two respective major programs. Mathematics
The following mathematics courses are required for the major. The skills and content in these courses are required for chemistry and biochemistry upper division courses, particularly physical chemistry. Physics
Two semesters of physics are required for the major. The concepts in these courses are foundational for many concepts in chemistry and biochemistry upper division courses. These courses are essential for physical chemistry. Take ONE of the following groups: Biology
Introduction to Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, and Biochemistry is required for the major. Upper Division Courses
The following upper-division courses are required. Chemistry or Biology Elective
Select at least 4 additional units of 300- and/or 400-level electives from chemistry and/or biology in consultation with your advisor. Multiple independent study courses at the 300 and/or 400 level can be combined to satisfy this requirement. Notes
- Students are strongly encouraged to participate in research, either during a summer or during the academic year.
- Students interested in more chemistry-related graduate programs should take two semesters of Physical Chemistry.
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