Biochemistry, B.S.

The Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry degree program provides the student with a flexible program that builds upon a solid fundamental knowledge in chemistry and biochemistry. Students work with their advisors/chairperson to select upper division elective courses in emphasis areas like health sciences–which include but are not limited to medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, optometry–and areas such as forensics, environmental chemistry, education, etc.

The B.S. in Biochemistry degree is designed to prepare the student not only for immediate entry into the profession of biochemistry at the Bachelor’s level but also for graduate study toward advanced degrees.  Additionally, the Biochemistry degree can be certified by the American Chemical Society (ACS) if certain elective classes are taken (details given in the ‘Academic Plan’ tab).

Objectives

Student learning outcomes for the biochemistry major:

• Students will be able to apply essential concepts in chemistry and biochemistry.
• Students will be able to complete an experiment in the chemistry/biochemistry laboratory using safe and proper technique.
• Students will be able to analyze and present data in written and oral formats.
• Students will be able to argue why chemistry and the application of green chemistry principles is an integral activity for addressing social issues such as economic, health and/or environmental problems.

Major Requirements

Notes:

An average of C (2.0) is required for the lower division CHEM, BIOL, MATH, and PHYS courses.  With approval of advisor, MATH 122 Calculus for the Life Sciences I may be substituted for MATH 131 Calculus I,  MATH 123 Calculus for the Life Sciences II may be substituted for MATH 132 Calculus II, PHYS 2500 General Physics I may be substituted for PHYS 1100 Introduction to Mechanics, and PHYS 2550 General Physics II may be substituted for PHYS 2100 Introduction to Electricity and Magnetism. 

Except for CHEM 390 Chemistry Seminar and CHEM 490 Chemistry Seminar, a minimum cumulative grade point average of C (2.0) is required in the upper division major requirements for graduation. All upper division courses must be completed at LMU. Strongly recommended for those intending graduate study: CHEM 397 Directed Research/CHEM 497 Directed Research. A maximum of 12 semester hours of Chemistry/Biochemistry Internship and/or Directed Research (CHEM 393 Chemistry/Biochemistry Internship, CHEM 397 Directed Research, CHEM 493 Chemistry/Biochemistry Internship, CHEM 497 Directed Research) may be included toward the total baccalaureate requirement. CHEM courses with Credit/No Credit grading do not count toward the upper division elective requirements of the major.

To be eligible for the Dean’s list, students must have completed 14 semester hours at LMU for that semester.

Biochemistry Curriculum

(124 S.H.)

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Biochemistry majors are required to complete 32 semester hours of core courses to satisfy the University Core requirements.

Note:
Students electing to receive an American Chemical Society (ACS) certified degree for the Biochemistry degree program must successfully pass CHEM 330 Inorganic Chemistry and any CHEM Upper Division Elective that has a laboratory component. Please consult with your academic advisor on which specific courses meet this laboratory requirement.