Biochemistry (B.S.)

Program Overview

The Biochemistry Major emphasizes a molecular understanding of biological processes. A fascination with atomic and molecular structure and function, as it controls the processes of life itself, is a sure indication that this major may be the one for you. Courses in this major explore the structure and function of nucleic acids, proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates, and how these molecules mediate chemical processes in the cell. In addition, biochemistry majors will learn both qualitative and quantitative methodologies needed to fully probe how molecular structure causes changes in biological processes. A thorough understanding of the biology of microorganisms, the application of both classical and modern genetics to living systems, and the transformation of molecular information in biological systems completes this major.

This major provides considerable versatility to a student, who will be well qualified to work in any area of biochemistry, molecular biology, or biotechnology. In addition, the hands-on use of analytical instrumentation throughout this program will allow a student to easily succeed in a career in chemical analysis. These positions are abundant for Bachelor’s level scientists and include applications in environmental chemistry and forensic science. Furthermore, this major is well suited for students planning to pursue medical school or an allied health profession. Finally, the Biochemistry major is outstanding preparation for a student planning to attend graduate school in biochemistry or molecular biology, as well as in interdisciplinary areas such as biophysics, neuroscience, genetics, cell biology and immunology.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates from Messiah’s Biochemistry program can:

  1. Describe the fundamental principles and applications of chemistry
  2. Apply fundamental and advanced principles across multiple areas of chemistry
  3. Work accurately and safely in the laboratory
  4. Demonstrate advanced lab knowledge and skills
  5. Identify and respond appropriately to chemical safety issues
  6. Plan and execute original research in collaboration with a faculty mentor
  7. Identify ways careers in chemistry connect with God’s vocational call

Additionally, the American Chemical Society graduates can demonstrate research and communication skills needed in the discipline (ACS students)

Major Requirements

Complete the following for your major:

BIOL 160Molecular and Cellular Biology

4

BIOL 260Genetics and Development

3

CHEM 105General Chemistry I

4

CHEM 106General Chemistry II

4

CHEM 221Chemical Analysis I

4

CHEM 309Organic Chemistry I

4

CHEM 310Organic Chemistry II

4

CHEM 321Chemical Analysis II

4

CHEM 390Junior Chemistry Seminar

1

CHEM 410Biochemistry I

4

CHEM 412Biochemistry II

4

CHEM 437Physical Chemistry I

3.5

CHEM 490Senior Chemistry Seminar

1

CHEM 495Capstone: Natural Sciences

3

MATH 111Calculus I

4

MATH 112Calculus II

4

PHYS 211General Physics I

4

PHYS 212General Physics II

4

CHEM 221: Fulfills Writing Enriched course requirement for Major.

Three to four credits from the following:

BIOL 385Physiology

4

BIOL 387Neuroscience

3

BIOL 412Cell Biology

4

BIOL 413Molecular Biology

4

BIOL 418Immunology

4

Three credits from the following:*

PHIL 101Problems in Philosophy

3

PHIL 102History of Philosophy

3

*Philosophy is not counted against the curricular parameters for the major.

All of the courses in this major are vital to our program. If you plan to study abroad or graduate early, you must talk to your advisor early and make plans to take the required courses when they are offered. Directed study will not be offered for any lab courses, and will only be granted in extreme circumstances for non-lab courses.

Recommended: 4 additional credits from BIOL 381 or BIOL 382 Microbiology for students interested in health professions.

QuEST Requirements

Experiential Learning requirement 0
QuEST requirements Credits
First Year Seminar 3
Oral Communication 3
Created and Called for Community (W) 3
Mathematical Sciences (MATH 111) met/major
Laboratory Science (BIOL 160 or CHEM 105) met/major
Science, Technology & the World waived
Two of the following (6 credits total):
   Social Science
   European History
   United States History
6
Literature 3
Philosophy and Religion 3*
Arts 3
First Semester of Language 3
Second Semester of Language 3
Third Semester of Language or Cross Cultural 3
Non-Western Studies 2 or 3
Bible 3
Christian Beliefs 3
Wellness course 1
Ethics, World Views or Pluralism 3
QuEST requirements 45-46*
Major requirements 70.5-71.5
Free electives 7-5.5
Total credits 123

*Philosophy is not counted against the curricular parameters for the major.