Biochemistry, B.S. Program (120 units)
Program Description
The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry provides a strong education in chemistry and biochemistry that prepares its students to function and thrive in our society. The department attempts to increase the problem solving and critical thinking skills of all students. Non-science students learn about the scientific and chemical aspects of everyday life that allow them to understand issues related to the environment, energy production, disease prevention, and nutrition. Students of the sciences learn the fundamentals of chemistry that control the interactions of elements and molecules. Building on an understanding of mathematics, physics, and biology, biochemistry majors receive a background in the major disciplines of chemistry including inorganic, analytical, organic, and physical, and take in-depth coursework in biochemistry. Students learn the protocols and techniques for working safely with chemicals and biochemicals. The department recognizes the importance of the pursuit of new knowledge in the development of skilled scientists and productive members of society, and encourages its students to participate in research projects and cooperative educational opportunities.
The undergraduate programs offered by the department include: Chemistry, B.S.; Biochemistry, B.S.; Chemistry, Bioanalytical and Forensics Concentration, B.S.; Chemistry, B.A.; Chemistry, Chemistry Education Concentration, B.A.; Biochemistry, B.A.; Biochemistry, Chemistry Education Concentration, B.A.; and a Chemistry Minor. Descriptions of these programs and their requirements can be found under each degree listing. The department also offers a Chemistry, M.S. and a Chemistry M.S. Concentration in Biochemistry. See program listings for descriptions.
The Bachelor of Science degree, major in Biochemistry, is designed to prepare students for entrance into graduate programs of biochemistry and professional health-related programs such as pharmacy, dentistry or medicine. In addition, students completing this program are prepared to secure employment in the areas of biochemistry, biotechnology and related fields. This program is intended for students desiring the highest degree of technical proficiency in this specialized area at the undergraduate level.
Program Learning Outcomes
Students graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or Biochemistry from Cal State East Bay will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge in the various areas of chemistry, including inorganic chemistry, analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, and biochemistry.
- Use quantitative reasoning to analyze and solve chemical and biochemical problems and evaluate chemical data.
- Work effectively and safely in a laboratory environment to perform experimental procedures and operate modern chemical/biochemical instruments.
- Design, carry out, record and analyze the results of chemical and biochemical experiments.
- Communicate chemical or biochemical issues clearly.
Program Roadmaps
These program roadmaps represent recommended pathways through the program. Please see an advisor to create an education plan that is customized to meet your needs.
Mission Statement
It is imperative that Cal State East Bay chemistry students possess sufficient theoretical and practical training in chemistry and biochemistry so that they will be able to assume the significant technical responsibilities required by the chemical and biotechnology industries that will employ them. It is important that students are not only trained in chemistry (and biochemistry), but that they will become respected scientists and research technicians. In addition, it is important that students planning for entrance into Ph.D. programs or pre-professional programs are adequately prepared.
Career Opportunities
Analytical Chemist • Biotechnologist • Biochemist • Biophysicist • Dietitian • Environmental Chemist • Food and Drug Inspector • Forensic Chemist • Geochemist • Health Professional • Materials Scientist • Organic Chemist • Perfumer • Petrologist • Pharmacist • Pharmaceutical Chemist • Pollution Control • Quality Control Technician • Teacher • Water Purification Chemist
Features
Laboratory equipment and instruments in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry include a 500 MHz nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometer, a capillary gas chromatograph with mass-spectral detection (GC/MS), Fourier-transform infrared spectrophotometers (FTIR), an inductively coupled plasma- optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES), high performance liquid chromatographs (HPLC), a fast protein liquid chromatograph (FPLC), a fluorescence spectrometer, a diode-array ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer, a plate reader, a molecular imager, thermocyclers and microwave synthesizers. A molecular modeling facility is also available for instruction and research.
The Alchemist Club, a student affiliate of the American Chemical Society, is available to students majoring in Chemistry. The club members are active in many aspects of the department, participate in fund-raising for special projects, and take interesting field trips to local industries.
Preparation and Prerequisites
Prerequisite courses for all chemistry and biochemistry courses must be passed with a grade of “C-” or better. Requests for Grade Forgiveness will be allowed only on a space-available basis.
Other Degree Requirements
In addition to major requirements, every student must also complete the University requirements for graduation which are described in the Undergraduate Information chapter in this catalog. These include the General Education requirements; the University Writing Skills Requirement; and the residence, unit, and grade point average requirements.
Degree Requirements Unit-Outline
- A baccalaureate of science degree requires a total of 120 units:
- The major requirements consists of 75 units;
- General Education (GE) & Graduation Requirements (GR) consists of 57 units;
- Free Electives may consist of 0 units (actual # of free elective units may depend on GE/GR units).
Note: It may be possible to double-count units within the graduation requirements or that a course may satisfy both a graduation requirement and a major requirement. Students should contact their program advisors for information.
Biochemistry (B.S.) Major Requirements (75 units)
Lower Division Core
The following 39 units of interdisciplinary coursework is required:
Upper Division Core
The following 30 units of upper-division coursework is required:
Elective Courses
Choose two (2) courses from the following for 6 units:
