Biochemistry, BA

Biochemistry BA, General Option: Four-Year Curriculum

The BA in Biochemistry with the general option is designed for students who wish to major in biochemistry, but is limited to fewer credit hours in chemistry than the BS in Biochemistry. Students may be interested in a more general degree or may be pre-professional students who will elect significant course work from another department. BA students may go on to graduate school in the biochemical sciences by taking additional courses in biochemistry or related disciplines.

The BA in Biochemistry general option requires a minimum of 52 credit hours in chemistry. No more than 54 hours in chemistry may be counted toward the 120 credit hours required for graduation.

Students are required to select 12 credit hours of electives in chemistry. Up to 6 credit hours may be:

Biochemistry BA, Pre-Med Option: Four-Year Curriculum

Admission to medical school is a difficult and highly competitive process. Additionally, medical schools are looking for candidates who not only excel academically, but who also demonstrate high-level interpersonal skills and have a good grasp of current issues in science and medicine. The BA in Biochemistry pre-med option has been designed specifically and carefully for students who are interested in a career in medicine. This option satisfies the latest course requirements of most medical schools, provides the breadth of classes needed to prepare students for the MCAT, and allows candidates to develop strengths in critical thinking and communication that lead to success. This option is also appropriate for students interested in other health-related careers.

Students who wish to work as biochemists or to pursue graduate studies in biochemistry should elect the BS in Biochemistry rather than the pre-med option.

The BA in Biochemistry pre-med option requires a minimum of 49 credit hours in chemistry. No more than 54 hours in chemistry may be counted toward the 120 credit hours required for graduation.

Students are required to select 6 credit hours of electives in chemistry. Up to 6 credit hours may be:

Biochemistry BA, Secondary Education Option: Four-Year Curriculum

The BA in Biochemistry with the secondary education option is designed for students wishing to be high school chemistry teachers. This program has very specific requirements and little room for elective courses that will not count towards graduation. It is important to consult with advisors from the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and the College of Education.

Students who wish to work as biochemists or to pursue graduate studies in biochemistry should elect the BS Biochemistry rather than the secondary education option.

The BA in Biochemistry secondary education option requires a minimum of 33 credit hours in chemistry. No more than 54 hours in chemistry may be counted toward the hours required for graduation.

Students are required to select 2 credit hours of electives in chemistry.