Biochemistry, B.S.

Mission Statement

The biochemistry program at Coastal Carolina University is an interdisciplinary program housed within the Department of Chemistry. The mission of the biochemistry program is to develop strong student competencies in biochemistry through a selective blending of biology and chemistry coursework, and to develop strong critical reasoning skills in students that they can apply to all areas of study. The program’s faculty is committed to providing meaningful undergraduate experiences for both majors and non-majors through high-quality, student-centered teaching and undergraduate research mentoring. Students completing a degree in biochemistry should be well prepared for entering a career, graduate school or medical school.

Student Learning Outcomes

When students complete the program in biochemistry, they will be able to:

1. Explain the principles and application of biochemistry in a technology-rich, interactive environment that requires a multidisciplinary approach between chemistry and biology.
2. Analyze and interpret research data and scientific literature in pursuit of independent lines of inquiry in biochemistry.
3. Design their own experiments to solve scientific questions using applicable course content and laboratory skills.
4. Use biochemical concepts to explain the functional role of small biological molecules and complex processes such as metabolic pathways or diseases.
5. Use effective communication skills to transfer their scientific knowledge to peers and to the larger community to successfully compete in industry or succeed in medical/graduate school.

Students must earn a grade of ‘C’ or better in all foundation and major electives.