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Biochemistry, B.S.

Explore the Molecular Processes that Shape Life

Our Alumni Have Careers As:

Work in clinical laboratories and interpret biochemical data for diagnosing and monitoring diseases or the efficacy of new medications.
Contribute to the discovery, development and testing of new medications and therapies targeting specific biochemical pathways involved in diseases.
Conduct research, and teach biochemistry or related subjects at universities, colleges, or secondary schools.
Conduct research on the molecular mechanisms underlying health and disease, including gene expression, protein function, signal transduction, and related cellular processes.
Develop new products and medical devices, such as vaccines, diagnostic assays, and drug delivery systems.
Use biochemical techniques to analyze evidence in criminal investigations or legal proceedings.
Communicate scientific information, including articles, reports or educational materials for healthcare professionals and the general public.

Learn To

Understand structure, properties, and assembly of the fundamental building blocks of nature

Investigate biochemical pathways, enzyme kinetics, and protein and lipid structure and function

Understand how genes, gene expression, and molecular genetics function

Master technical aspects of the field, including different types of spectroscopy

Purify protein and lipids, conduct standard assays, and learn about structural biochemistry

Become proficient in the application of quantitative approaches to solve biochemical problems

Biochemistry, B.S. Program Overview

Gain a Strong Foundation

The B.S. in Biochemistry provides students with a firm foundation in the quantitative areas essential to all of chemistry, such as general, organic and biophysical chemistry. In addition to the foundational courses, the curriculum provides a thorough background in cell biology, genetics and molecular biology, to establish the context for biochemical processes.

Biochemists study the chemistry of life processes, which makes biochemistry of interest to students who wish to pursue careers in health-related fields, such as medicine, pharmaceutical sciences, and pharmacology – or who plan on careers in basic research related to life processes and the study of disease. With its connections to both chemistry and biology, biochemistry is a popular choice for pre-medical, pre-pharmacy, pre-veterinary, and pre-dental students.

The curriculum is structured to leave room in the junior and senior years for a series of elective subjects on a rotating basis that reflect the expertise of the faculty. These courses are designed to provide in-depth coverage of specific areas through advanced laboratory and lecture courses.

Interdisciplinary Education

Biochemistry integrates principles from biology, chemistry, physics, and even computer science and engineering. Students develop a broad skill set that enables them to collaborate across multiple scientific disciplines, making them valuable contributors to interdisciplinary research teams.

Versatile Career Opportunities

A biochemistry degree opens doors to a wide range of career paths, including research, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, agriculture, environmental science, and more. Graduates have the flexibility to pursue diverse interests and contribute to various industries.

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Sample Courses in Biochemistry

Sample Courses
CHM 365 Biochemistry I
CHML 365 Biochemistry I Lab
CHM 466 Biochemistry II
CHM 325 Biophysical Chemistry
CHML 325 Biophysical Chemistry Lab
CHM 468 Structure and Function of Nucleic Acids
CHM 469 Enzymology
See the full curriculum

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Department

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Contact UNCW

Michael R. Webb

webbm@uncw.edu

601 S. College Road
Wilmington, NC 28403

Hours:
Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Summer hours:
Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Friday, 7:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

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