Mar 28, 2024  
2010-2011 Catalog 
    
2010-2011 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Biochemistry, BS


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110 credits

Introduction

Admission to the Bachelor of Science major in biochemistry is selective and based upon preparation and prior academic performance. Application may be made through the chemistry department, Chemistry Building 270. Admission to the biochemistry major will be in two phases. Students will be designated Phase I majors until they have completed CHEM 121, 122, 123, 351 and 352 and BIOL 205. Students will be admitted to Phase II based on their performance in Phase I. Students with a grade point average of 3.0 or higher in the Phase I courses will be given preferential admission to Phase II. Students with a grade point average below 3.0 will be considered on a case by case basis for remaining spaces in the major. See the department’s website for more details.

This major is part of an interdisciplinary program between the biology and chemistry departments at Western. The BS degree in biochemistry (with greater emphasis on the physical chemical theory behind biological chemistry) is offered via the chemistry department, whereas a BS degree in cellular and molecular biology (with a different emphasis) is offered via the biology department. The requirements for the BS in biochemistry are listed below. For the cellular and molecular biology degree program, see the biology department  section of this catalog.

This program is specifically designed for students who seek graduate study or employment in biochemistry or molecular biology.

A typical four-year program leading to a Bachelor of Science degree in biochemistry is described on the department’s website.

Grade Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.

Departmental Honors


A chemistry department major who wishes to graduate with honors in chemistry must complete a one-year program of research, culminating in CHEM 498. The student must also maintain a 3.50 cumulative grade point average, submit a senior thesis and present a public seminar covering the research topic. Criteria for candidacy for departmental honors are 1) a minimum grade point average of 3.50 at the conclusion of the penultimate year and 2) acceptance for admission to the program by the chemistry department. Students who are in the University Honors Program must also satisfy these departmental requirements.

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