Biochemistry Specialization
This interdisciplinary specialization allows depth in the study of the chemistry that occurs in living systems. It incorporates upper level coursework in both chemistry and biology. The Biochemistry specialization will develop in students a framework of chemical principles and knowledge which can be applied to understanding living systems at the atomic and molecular level. Particular emphasis will be placed on exploration of the structure, assembly, and function of biomolecules (in particular proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids), metabolic processes, energetics, and information transfer.
The specialization is an excellent preparation for graduate or professional school in the health sciences, or for careers in biotechnology, drug development, or the health professions.
This specialization can be completed by any student, but it is designed to be completed in combination with a major in biology or chemistry.
Requirements
47 credits
Chemistry Core (24 credits)
| CHE-141 | General Chemistry I | 3 credits |
| CHE-141L | General Chemistry Laboratory I | 1 credit |
| CHE-142 | General Chemistry II | 3 credits |
| CHE-142L | General Chemistry Laboratory II | 1 credit |
| CHE-301 | Organic Chemistry I | 3 credits |
| CHE-301L | Organic Chemistry I Lab | 1 credit |
| CHE-302 | Organic Chemistry II | 3 credits |
| CHE-302L | Organic Chemistry II Lab | 1 credit |
| CHE-412 | Biochemistry | 3 credits |
| CHE-412L | Biochemistry Laboratory | 1 credit |
| CHE-465 | Chemical Thermodynamics and Kinetics | 3 credits |
| CHE-465L | Chemical Thermodynamics and Kinetics Lab & Recitation | 1 credit |
Biology Core (11 credits)
The BIO-202 prerequisite for BIO-316 and BIO-330 can, for the purposes of this specialization but for no other program, be waived by signature of the Biochemistry specialization supervisor, and with at least junior standing in the case of BIO-330 .)
Molecular Biology (4 credits)
Complete one lecture/lab combination.
Math and Physics Core (8 credits for major)
| MAT-175 | Single Variable Calculus | 4 credits |
| PHY-271 | Analytical Physics I | 3 credits |
| PHY-271L | Analytical Physics I Lab | 1 credit |
| PHY-272 | Analytical Physics II | 3 credits |
| PHY-272L | Analytical Physics II Lab | 1 credit |
The credits for the math requirement (MAT-175) are counted in the Professional Foundations minor.
Depending on math placement, MAT-150 may be required prior to MAT-175 .