Biochemistry B.S.
Coordinator: Professor Karty
Biochemistry focuses on those processes that occur at the molecular level in living organisms. The goal of the biochemistry major is to provide an in-depth, interdisciplinary foundation in chemistry and biology needed to understand these processes. Students completing this major will be prepared for careers in the biotechnology industry or graduate studies in biochemistry, pharmaceutical chemistry, molecular biology or medically-related fields.
Administered by the Department of Chemistry, a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry is offered in a three-tiered structure. Foundational courses are taken from biology, chemistry, mathematics and physics. Intermediate courses in biochemistry, genetics and organic chemistry provide in-depth knowledge. Advanced electives in biochemistry, biology and chemistry allow students flexibility in tailoring a curriculum to fit their post baccalaureate goals. The major concludes with a capstone experience focusing on an advanced topic in biochemistry coupled with the creation of a scientific research proposal.
Students who major in biochemistry will gain access to state-of-the-art technology and be able to put their knowledge into practice through internships and/or undergraduate research. Biochemical research may be offered by appropriate faculty in the Department of Biology, the Department of Chemistry or the Department of Physics. Undergraduate researchers are encouraged to present their results at local, regional and national scientific meetings.
Students majoring in Biochemistry cannot also declare a minor in either Biology or Chemistry.
A Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Biochemistry requires the completion of the Elon Core Curriculum as well as the Major Requirements listed below.
Major Requirements:
Required courses: 51 sh
Select one of the following Physics sequences: 8 sh
Select a minimum of 10 hours from the following courses: 10 sh
At least two 4 hour courses from different departments on the list of courses below.
(Other electives may be substituted with approval of the department);
At least 1 hour of the 10 hours must include laboratory-based content. This lab requirement can be satisfied by any of the following; a laboratory imbedded course from the elective list, /chm-3330'>CHM 3330, an additional semester of /chm-4010'>CHM 4010 beyond the one that is required, or approved research.
Total Credit Hours: 66
1. Foundational Knowledge in Biochemistry:
o Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the core sub-disciplines of biochemistry: General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Cell Biology, Genetics, Quantitative Analysis
2. Laboratory and Technical Skills:
o Safely and effectively use modern laboratory equipment, techniques, and instrumentation
o Design and carry out experiments, analyze data critically, and interpret results.
o Practice proper chemical hygiene, waste disposal, and risk assessment.
3. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking:
o Apply quantitative reasoning and chemical knowledge to solve complex problems of biological systems.
o Use modeling, simulation, and computational methods when appropriate.
4. Communication Skills:
o Clearly and effectively communicate scientific concepts, data, and results in written reports and oral presentations.
5. Professional and Ethical Responsibility:
o Demonstrate integrity, ethical conduct, and accountability in scientific research and practice.
6. Research and Independent Learning:
o Formulate hypotheses, design experiments, and evaluate evidence through multiple methods.
o Critically evaluate primary literature in chemistry and related fields.
7. Preparation for Post-Graduate Paths:
o Be prepared for graduate study in chemistry, professional schools (e.g., medicine, pharmacy, dentistry), or careers in industry, government, or education.
Total Credit Hours: 69