Program Overview

Biochemistry Program Overview

The Department of Biochemistry offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree. The major requires 26 hours of upper division coursework, including courses in general, organic, and physical chemistry, as well as calculus and physics. Additional courses in biochemistry and biology are also required. A year of general chemistry, a year of organic chemistry, and additional upper division courses are required for the minor.

Program Requirements

In addition to the major requirements, students must fulfill the College of Arts and Sciences' core curriculum, which covers three skills acquisition areas and seven content areas of study. This is designed to provide students with a broad education. Credits taken for the major may also apply toward these core hours.

Undergraduate Opportunities

• Undergraduate Research: The Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) offers students a chance to work alongside a faculty sponsor on original research. Students learn to write proposals, conduct research, pursue creative work, analyze data, and present the results.
  • For more information, please visit the UROP website.
• Independent Study: Independent study (BCHM 4091) provides an opportunity for a student to work on a research project with an individual faculty member outside of the regular class structure. This generally provides an experience much more like real-life biochemistry, where new results are being sought and the outcome of the research is not known in advance.
  • The student may have a totally independent project or may become part of a research team working at the forefront of science.
• Study Abroad: The experience of studying abroad can prove invaluable for a Biochemistry major.
  • Further information about study abroad programs is available from the Office of International Education/Study Abroad.
• Teaching Certification: Biochemistry majors can also earn certification as teachers through the School of Education. The program for a secondary school science-teaching certificate is challenging, requiring a broad, strong background in science, as well as coursework in education and practice teaching. It usually requires at least five years of study.
  • Students interested in teacher certification are encouraged to contact the School of Education.

Additional Information

• Major / Minor Overview
• Undergraduate Research
• Graduating with Honors
• Health Professions
• Advising
• Scholarships
• Courses
• Prospective Undergraduates
• Undergraduate Internships

Links of Interest

• Organic Chemistry
• Course Catalog
• Registrars Office
• Academic Advising Center
• Colorado Bioscience Institute - A Mentor Program for Undergraduates