Biochemistry, MS

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Biochemistry program at ASU's School of Molecular Sciences equips students with the knowledge and skills to solve biological problems at the molecular level. The program emphasizes structure, properties, and synthesis of molecules, preparing graduates for careers in biogeochemistry, energy and sustainability, medicine, and more. Students can choose between a thesis or capstone option to complete their degree, and the program is STEM-OPT eligible for international students.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Structure: Understanding the arrangement of molecules in biological systems.
• Properties: Exploring the chemical and physical characteristics of these molecules.
• Synthesis: Learning how to create and manipulate molecules for specific purposes.
By integrating these three aspects within a biological context, the program prepares graduates to tackle complex challenges in various fields, including:
• Biogeochemistry
• Energy and sustainability
• Fundamental chemical biology
• Materials and nanoscience
• Medicine and health
• Structure, function, and dynamics

Outline:

The Biochemistry MS program consists of two main components:

Coursework:

• Required Core (4 credit hours): Students can choose any combination of BCH 501 (Current Topics in Biochemistry) or CHM 501 (Current Topics in Chemistry) to fulfill this requirement.
• Electives (12 or 18 credit hours): Students can select from a variety of courses offered in the School of Molecular Sciences and other related departments based on their specific interests and career aspirations.
• Other Requirements (5 or 8 credit hours): This includes attending BCH 591 (Seminar) and conducting research (BCH 592) for a total of 8 credit hours.
Alternatively, students can opt for two additional credit hours of BCH 501 or CHM 501 and three credit hours of BCH 591, totaling 5 credit hours.

Culminating Experience (3 or 6 credits):

• Thesis Option (6 credits): Students conduct original research under the guidance of a faculty advisor and write a comprehensive thesis documenting their findings.

Assessment:

The program utilizes a comprehensive assessment strategy to evaluate student learning and ensure program effectiveness. This includes:

• Research Project Evaluation: For students pursuing the thesis option, their research work is rigorously evaluated by their faculty advisor and a committee of experts.
This evaluation considers the originality of the research, the quality of the methodology, the clarity of the findings, and the overall contribution to the field.
• Capstone Project Evaluation: The capstone project is assessed based on its relevance to real-world problems, the student's demonstration of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and the effectiveness of their communication and collaboration skills.

Teaching:

The program boasts a dedicated faculty of experienced researchers and educators who are committed to providing students with a high-quality learning experience. The teaching methods employed in the program include:

• Interactive lectures: Engaging students in discussions and encouraging active participation.
• Problem-based learning: Providing students with real-world scenarios and datasets to analyze and solve.
• Hands-on laboratory experiences: Allowing students to gain practical skills and experience using state-of-the-art equipment.
• Individualized mentorship: Providing personalized guidance and support to help students achieve their academic and professional goals.
• Collaborative learning opportunities: Encouraging students to work together on projects and assignments to foster teamwork and communication skills.

Careers:

• Industry: Research and development, quality control, and product development in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and agricultural companies.
• Academia: Research and teaching positions in universities and colleges.
• Government: Research, policy development, and regulatory roles in government agencies.
• Non-profit: Policy development, public education, and advocacy work.
• Entrepreneurship: Founding and leading startups in the biotechnology and life sciences sector.

Other:

The program also offers opportunities for students to participate in research collaborations with faculty members and external partners, further enriching their learning experience.