Biochemistry

Graduates with a degree in biochemistry will be well prepared for employment, graduate study in biochemistry or other chemistry-related fields, or professional school. Biochemists are employed in research, quality control, design, sales and management. Many graduates pursue masters and doctoral degrees in biochemistry, medicinal chemistry, and in other life science fields. A biochemistry degree is excellent preparation for medical school and related fields, and also for careers in business, law or education.

The curriculum at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology provides a rigorous introduction to all subdisciplines of chemistry along with biochemistry and applied biology. Students have access to modern instrumentation along with a well-equipped biochemistry lab. Rose-Hulman students are introduced to modern computational methods beginning in the sophomore year. There are many opportunities for research or other individual projects, and students are encouraged to present their results at regional and national chemistry conferences. Close interaction with engineering departments provides students with a point of view not available at most other undergraduate institutions.

List of Required Chemistry Courses

Summary of Minimum Graduation Requirements

Below is a sample plan of study that illustrates one way to achieve the program requirements. Any given student's plan of study may differ based on a variety of factors (e.g., advanced credit, placement exams, adding a minor). Enrolled students will work with their academic advisor; utilize the degree audit/planner to create a specific plan of study.

¹

Subject to approval, CHEM 112 General Chemistry Honors may be substituted for CHEM 111 General Chemistry I and CHEM 113 General Chemistry II.

²

Math/ScienceElective defined as 200 level or above coursework with any of the following prefixes: BIO, BMTH, CSSE, GEOL, ECONS, MA, or PH

³

CHE 303 Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics, CHE 304 Multi-Component Thermodynamics and CHEM 360 Introduction to Physical Chemistry for Engineers may be substituted for CHEM 361 Physical Chemistry I and CHEM 362 Physical Chemistry II.

⁴

Advanced CHEM Elective defined as 300 level or above coursework with CHEM prefix.

⁵

Advanced BIO Elective defined as 300 level or above coursework with BIO prefix.

Notes

Two degree or double major programs in biochemistry and either chemistry or biochemistry and molecular biology is not allowed.

Students must complete at least 3 credits of CHEM 490 Chemical Research prior to the Spring quarter of their senior year.

Students may count up to 8 credits of research toward their electives, of which no more than 2 credits can come from CHEM 290 Chemical Research.

Student Learning Outcomes

Student Outcomes are statements that describe what students are expected to have by the time of graduation.

1. An ability to design and conduct experiments as well as to analyze and interpret data.
2. An ability to recognize the professional and ethical responsibilities of a biochemist.
3. An ability to communicate effectively in presentations and reports.
4. An ability to recognize biochemistry practices outside of the academic environment.
5. An ability to operate safely and effecitvely in a biochemistry laboratory.