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Biochemistry
Biochemistry Fundamentals
Biochemistry deals with living organisms at their most fundamental level, molecular and atomic.
- A thorough background is provided in the molecular aspects of biology and biochemistry
- Theory taught in the classroom is applied in undergraduate laboratory classes and individual research projects
Professional Preparation
- Coursework prepares you for advanced study in biochemistry or a career in industry or government.
Our Faculty
- All have received federal and industrial support for their research projects
- All regularly publish in scientific journals
Akron Advantage
Hands-on Research
Undergraduates are encouraged to do independent research in a field such as biomaterials, bionanotechnology, drug design, molecular biology, or biomimetic chemistry. The Department of Chemistry maintains:
- $8.6 million worth of nuclear magnetic resonance instrumentation
- mass spectrometers
- X-ray diffractometers
- IR-UV-Vis spectrometers
- liquid and gas chromatographs to identify, purify and characterize chemical compounds
- cell culture and microbial growth incubators
Real-world Experience
Internships, cooperative education experiences and volunteer opportunities are available.
Sample Curriculum
Bachelor of Science Degree in Biochemistry
| First Year: | Fourth Year: | ||
| English Composition I, II | 7 | Humanities in Western Tradition | 4 |
| Principles of Chemistry I, II, Lab | 7 | Humanities electives | 6 |
| Pre-calculus math | 4 | Area Studies | 4 |
| Principles of Biology I, II |
8 | Cell Physiology |
3 |
| Qualitative Analysis | 2 | Advanced Chemistry Lab III |
2 |
| Analytical Geometry-Calculus I | 4 | Electives | 8 |
| Effective Oral Communications |
3 | Total | 27 |
| Total | 35 | |
|
| Biochemistry Electives: | |||
| Second Year: | Microbiology | 3 | |
| Social Sciences Elective | 3-4 | Immunology | 3 |
| General Genetics and Lab |
4 | Advanced Genetics | 3 |
| Organic Chemistry I, II, Labs | 10 | Introductory Seminars in Chemistry | 1 |
| Analytical Geometry-Calculus II, | 4 | Advanced Chemistry Laboratory I | 2 |
| Physics for Life Sciences I, II |
8 | Advanced Chemistry Laboratory II |
2 |
| Beginning Language I, II |
8 | Analytical Chemistry I | 3 |
| Total | 37-38 |
Analytical Chemistry II | 3 |
| Advanced Organic Chemistry | 3 | ||
| Third Year: | Advanced Inorganic Chemistry | 3 | |
| Physical Chemistry for Biochemists |
4 | Honors Project | 2-8 |
| Biochemistry I, II |
6 | Research Problems | 2-8 |
| Molecular and Cellular Biology |
6 |
Probability and Statistics for Engineers |
2 |
| Intermediate Language I, II | 4 | ||
| Molecular Biology | 3 | ||
| Total | 23 |
For More Information:
Request information from Undergraduate Admissions
Career Opportunities
Degrees and Preparation
A degree in biochemistry paves the way to careers in manufacturing and pharmaceutical industries, and in research development and testing services for the government. Entry-level positions in biochemistry require at least a bachelor’s degree; research positions typically require an M.S. or Ph.D. degree. Biochemists with advanced degrees often hold faculty positions at colleges and universities.
Career Outlook
- Opportunities are expected to grow for biochemists, especially in drug research, development, testing and
manufacturing industries. - Graduates with experience in industry through academic laboratories, internships, fellowships or co-ops stand out among job seekers.
A&S Careers Program
Creates links among students, alumni and local professionals. You will have access to:
- lending library with up-to-date, career-related publications
- computer workroom for resume writing and employment research
- volunteer, paid and for-credit internship placement on and off campus
- department-specific mentoring arrangements
The University of Akron
302 Buchtel Common. Akron, OH 44325
Phone: 330-972-7111
Contact us
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