Biochemistry Major

نظرة عامة على البرنامج

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Biochemistry Major

Earn a hybrid degree in biology and chemistry

One of the most important fields of chemistry, biochemistry is a hybrid of the fields of biology and chemistry. As a biochemistry major, you’ll build a strong foundation in both disciplines while gaining specialized knowledge in biochemical principles and laboratory techniques. This interdisciplinary degree prepares you for a wide range of career paths in medicine, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and biomedical research.

What to Expect as a Biochemistry student

• 51-52 credit hours of courses that are a combination of biology and chemistry
• Most semesters include significant time in the lab, where students practice with modern chemical techniques and scientific instrumentation
• The program fosters a close-knit academic community, offering students direct access to experienced faculty and mentoring throughout their studies

Curriculum Overview: Biochemistry Courses and Lab Experience

Students build a firm understanding of biological and chemical principles in the first year with the general chemistry and principles of biology sequences. That foundational knowledge is expanded in the second year with organic chemistry and molecular biology. In the junior and senior years, students learn about chemical instrumentation and theoretical energetics in addition to completing the biochemistry sequence, resulting in biochemistry graduates who are well-prepared for pharmacy, medical, and graduate schools.

Biochemistry I With Lab

CHEM-356

Introduction to the major biomolecular compound classes, including carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, along with a survey of enzyme kinetics and the overall regulation of key metabolic pathways.

Physical Chemistry for the Life Sciences

CHEM-415

Physical chemistry for the life sciences focuses on the energetics of biochemical reactions. Using thermodynamics, we can predict which reactions are spontaneous and how to drive nonspontaneous reactions.

Organic Chemistry II & Spectroscopy

CHEM-310

This organic chemistry course has a research-project-based laboratory, allowing students to experience research while learning organic laboratory principles. Students synthesize and test drug analogs for bioactivity, replicating the industrial drug discovery process.

Launch Your Career with a Biochemistry Degree

Graduates of the biochemistry program pursue careers in medical research, medicine, higher education, biotechnology, agricultural chemistry, engineering, computational chemistry, crystallography, oil and petroleum, or viticulture.

• Research Scientist
• Agricultural Chemist
• Clinical Laboratory Scientist
• Biotechnologist
• Genetic Engineer
• Food Chemist
• Patent Attorney
• Science Educator
• Forensic Biochemist
• Environmental Analyst

Graduate School Opportunities

The biochemistry major fulfills most prerequisites for medical, dental, and pharmacy school programs. Many graduates continue their studies in graduate research programs, biotechnology training, or clinical science fields, keeping a wide range of postgraduate options open.

Graduate Schools

Like many BC graduates, you might enter graduate schools such as:

• Boston University
• George Mason University
• Georgetown University
• University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill
• Shenandoah University
• University of Tennessee
• University of Virginia
• West Virginia University

Join the Chemistry and Biochemistry Club

Network with your classmates and faculty as part of the Chemistry and Biochemistry Club. Follow the department’s Instagram for an inside look at the club and see the passion for chemistry on campus.

Research

As a Bridgewater student, you can work closely with a faculty member to conduct cutting-edge research.

Chemistry Facilities

Located on the third floor of the McKinney Center for Science and Mathematics, the chemistry department maintains a well-equipped laboratory of chemical instrumentation.

Clubs, Societies, and Organizations

Bridgewater College is home to over 60 student-run clubs and organizations, as well as numerous honors societies and musical ensembles. Don’t see a club you’re interested in? Start one!

مخطط البرنامج

• Foundation in Both Disciplines: The program delivers a thorough foundation in both biology and chemistry, with a specific focus on biochemistry.
• Extensive Laboratory Experience: Students participate in extensive laboratory work, gaining hands-on experience with chemical techniques and instrumentation.
• Close-knit Department: The program fosters a close-knit environment where students benefit from personalized interaction with knowledgeable faculty.

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Outline:

• 51-52 Credit Hours: The program consists of 51-52 credit hours of courses encompassing biology, chemistry, and biochemistry.
• Year 1: Students build a strong foundation in general chemistry and principles of biology.
• Year 2: The focus shifts to organic chemistry and molecular biology, expanding the foundational knowledge.
• Years 3 & 4: Students delve deeper into biochemistry, chemical instrumentation, and theoretical energetics, culminating in a comprehensive understanding of the field.
• Sample Courses:
• Biochemistry I With Lab (CHEM-356)
• Physical Chemistry for the Life Sciences (CHEM-415)
• Organic Chemistry II & Spectroscopy (CHEM-310)

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Assessment:

• Exams and Quizzes: Traditional exams and quizzes assess students' understanding of the theoretical concepts covered in lectures and readings.
• Laboratory Reports and Presentations: Laboratory work is assessed through reports and presentations, demonstrating students' practical skills and data analysis abilities.
• Research Projects: Some courses may involve research projects, where students independently investigate a specific topic and present their findings.

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Teaching:

• Interactive Learning Environment: The program emphasizes an interactive learning environment where students actively participate in discussions, group projects, and problem-solving activities.
• Experienced Faculty: The program is led by experienced faculty with expertise in various areas of biochemistry.
Students benefit from personalized guidance and mentorship from these instructors.
• Research Opportunities: The department encourages students to participate in research opportunities, allowing them to gain valuable hands-on experience and contribute to ongoing scientific investigations.

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Careers:

• Research: Graduates can pursue research careers in fields such as medical research, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical development.
• Medicine: The program provides a strong foundation for students interested in pursuing careers in medicine, including becoming physicians, surgeons, or pharmacists.
• Higher Education: Graduates can pursue careers in academia, becoming professors or researchers at universities and colleges.
• Industry: The program prepares students for careers in various industries, including biotechnology, agricultural chemistry, and environmental science.

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Other:

• First-year Student Deposit Deadline: The deadline for the first-year student deposit has been extended to June 1, 2024.
• Martin Science Research Institute Award: The department offers the Martin Science Research Institute Award to support student research projects.
• Chemistry and Biochemistry Club: Students can join the Chemistry and Biochemistry Club to network with peers and faculty and participate in club activities.
• Research Facilities: The department maintains well-equipped laboratories for students to conduct research.
• Admission requirements and application process
• Fees and financial aid options