Learning Objectives: Bachelor of Science  Degree in Biochemistry

Students who earn the B.S. degree with a major in Biochemistry will be appropriately competent in: core topics in chemistry, the language of chemistry, advanced studies in biochemistry, and laboratory skills.

Core Topics:

• atomic and molecular structure and chemical bonding
• equilibria and stoichiometry
• thermochemistry 
• periodic relationships
• thermodynamics
• chemical dynamics
• quantum mechanics and spectroscopy
• recognition, structure, and reactivity of the major organic functional groups

Language of Chemistry:

• verbal, written, numerical and graphical communication of chemical concepts
• use of the chemical literature
• knowledge of the research process

Laboratory Skills:

• data organization and analysis
• techniques in biotechnology
• synthesis and characterization of organic compounds by physical and instrumental methods

Advanced Studies:

• biochemistry: biological molecules and metabolism
• elective advanced studies in allied fields of Biology and Psychology

Assessment of Learning Objectives

Students who earn the B.S. with a major in Biochemistry will have demonstrated the attainment of the specific objectives by appropriate scores on the current American Chemical Society (ACS) Exams for (1) General Chemistry or Organic Chemistry and (2) Biochemistry. The passing score will be at or above the 40^th percentile of the national norms for these exams or at an appropriate level, as determined by the Department of Chemistry, based on the accumulated data of the performance of LaGrange College students on these exams. The results that are in the best interest of the students will be used. These exams will be given at the end of the appropriate courses and will be offered to students up to three (3) additional times prior to the time of the student’s scheduled graduation. The student must attempt a retest at least once a semester until successful completion of the exam. In the event that a student needs to repeat an exam for the second, third, or final time, evidence of preparation must be presented. Reexamination cannot be scheduled earlier than two (2) weeks following a previous examination.

Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Biochemistry

Students earn these competencies by pursuing the following Bachelor of Science curriculum in Biochemistry:

In addition, Bachelor of Science Biochemistry majors must take two classes from the following list:

Total: 57-58 semester hours

Students are urged to seek advisement from a faculty member in the chemistry program prior to or early in their first semester.  The scheduling of the B.S. curriculum is important, as Elements of Physical Chemistry (CHEM 3311) is offered alternate years.  To be prepared to take Elements of Physical Chemistry sequence, students must complete the mathematics requirements and PHYS 1101 prior to the term in their Junior or Senior year that CHEM 3311 will be offered.  The following is a typical sequence of courses for the B.S. Biochemistry degree:

Note that Elements of Physical Chemistry (CHEM 3311) is listed twice as it is offered in alternating years.  PHYS 1101 must be completed prior to taking CHEM 3311.