Program Overview
Saint Louis University's Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry prepares students for careers in STEM fields and professional schools. The program emphasizes undergraduate research, mentorship, and scientific communication skills, providing graduates with a strong foundation in chemistry and the life sciences. Graduates are well-equipped for careers in biochemistry, molecular biology, and biotechnology, as well as further education in graduate or professional programs.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Saint Louis University's Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry is designed for students interested in the applications of chemistry to the life sciences. The program prepares students for professional schools such as medicine, dentistry, law and pharmacy. The program provides excellent preparation for students interested in working in biochemistry, molecular biology or biotechnology. The chemistry department at Saint Louis University emphasizes participation in undergraduate research, and majors have ample opportunities to involve themselves in research projects under the close mentorship of a full-time faculty member. Students can use a variety of specialized equipment and computers in their instructional and research laboratories. Each year, the department hosts several social events and sponsors a chemistry club for interested students.
Program Highlights:
- A rigorous program that makes graduates competitive for employment in STEM areas.
- Opportunities for students to strengthen their scientific communication skills through research activities that pair an undergraduate with a faculty researcher.
Outline:
First Year:
- General Chemistry 1 and 2
- Calculus I and II
Second Year:
- Organic Chemistry 1 and 2
- Analytical Chemistry 1
Third Year:
- Biochemistry 1 and 2
- Chemistry Literature
- Inorganic Chemistry
- Physical Chemistry 1 and 2
- Physical Chemistry Lab
- Undergraduate research
Fourth Year:
- Principles of Genetics
- Undergraduate research
Teaching:
The chemistry department at Saint Louis University emphasizes participation in undergraduate research, and majors have ample opportunities to involve themselves in research projects under the close mentorship of a full-time faculty member. Students can use a variety of specialized equipment and computers in their instructional and research laboratories.
Careers:
Career options in biochemistry include:
- Teaching at the university, college or high school level
- Chemical research and development in industry or government laboratories
- Pharmaceutical research
- Drug discovery and drug development
- Biotechnology
- Environmental research
- Management and administration in the chemical industry
- Chemical and pharmaceutical sales
- Patent law and environmental law
- Opportunities in the public health sector A Bachelor of Science degree in biochemistry is good preparation for students who want to continue their education in graduate school studying chemistry, biochemistry and health-related areas such as pharmacology and toxicology, as well as in professional school studying medicine, law, pharmacy or dentistry.
Other:
Selected undergraduate students may have opportunities to work with faculty members as assistants in undergraduate laboratories and receive a stipend. The benefits of SLU's biochemistry program also include many internship and career opportunities. In addition, undergraduates who study biochemistry at SLU can attend professional meetings and present their research results. SLU students have presented numerous talks and poster presentations at regional and national meetings of the American Chemical Society and other scientific conferences in recent years.
Graduates will be able to demonstrate:
- A foundational understanding of organic, inorganic, analytical and physical chemistry, and advanced knowledge in biochemistry.
- Proficiency in basic (general, organic, analytical and physical) and advanced biochemistry laboratory techniques and conduct laboratory experiments safely.
- The ability to collect, interpret and analyze quantitative data.
- The ability to communicate scientific results effectively, especially through written reports and oral presentations.
- The ability to design and conduct independent research.
Saint Louis University
Overview:
Saint Louis University (SLU) is a Jesuit Catholic university with a rich history spanning over 200 years. It is known for its commitment to academic excellence, student-centered approach, and research-driven environment. SLU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including arts and sciences, business, education, health sciences, law, medicine, nursing, and more.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
SLU provides a vibrant and supportive campus community with a strong emphasis on student involvement. Students can participate in a variety of clubs, organizations, and activities, including athletics, service learning, and cultural events. The university also offers resources for student well-being, such as counseling services and wellness programs.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
SLU is recognized for its high-quality academic programs and dedicated faculty.Experiential Learning:
The university emphasizes hands-on learning through internships, research opportunities, and study abroad programs.Supportive Community:
SLU fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment where students can connect with peers, faculty, and staff.Billiken Promise:
This program offers admitted undergraduate students a range of benefits, including virtual internships, guaranteed study abroad opportunities, and flexible scholarships.Academic Programs:
SLU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate:
94 bachelor's degree programsGraduate:
88 master's degree programsProfessional:
Programs in law, medicine, and other fieldsThe university is particularly known for its strengths in the following areas:
Health Sciences:
Medicine, Nursing, Public Health, and other related fieldsBusiness:
Finance, Marketing, Management, and EntrepreneurshipLaw:
Legal studies and practiceArts and Sciences:
Humanities, Social Sciences, and Natural SciencesOther:
SLU has a beautiful residential campus located in Midtown St. Louis, Missouri. The university also has a campus in Madrid, Spain, offering study abroad opportunities for students.
Entry Requirements:
- Freshman:
- Graduation from an accredited high school, an acceptable HiSET exam score, or a General Education Development (GED) test.
- Transfer:
- Graduation from an accredited high school or an acceptable GED score.
- Students with fewer than 24 semester credits (or 30 quarter credits) must meet freshman admission requirements.
- Students with 24 or more semester credits (or 30 quarter credits) must submit transcripts from all previously attended colleges.
- International:
- All admission policies and requirements for domestic students apply.
- Demonstrate English Language Proficiency (see below).
- Proof of financial support, including:
- A letter of financial support from the person(s) or sponsoring agency funding the time at Saint Louis University.
- Academic records, in English translation, of students who have undertaken postsecondary studies outside the United States must include the courses taken and/or lectures attended, practical laboratory work, the maximum and minimum grades attainable, the grades earned or the results of all end-of-term examinations, and any honors or degrees received. WES and ECE transcripts are accepted.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- International Applicants:
- Demonstrate English Language Proficiency.
