Biochemistry Major

The Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry at Cabrini University is a multidisciplinary program combining rigorous foundations in biology, chemistry, and physics.

The program is designed to meet the needs of students interested in biochemistry, which is the study of macromolecules: proteins; DNA/RNA; carbohydrates; and lipids.

This interdisciplinary major will include foundation courses from chemistry and biology as well as advanced courses in biochemistry and bioinformatics. Several research-based courses will provide enhanced critical-thinking skills; experience in the laboratory; and preparation for future careers in science or academics.

Requirements for the Major in Biochemistry

(all courses 4credits unless noted)

CHE 111 - General Chemistry I
CHE 112 - General Chemistry II
BIO101 - Biological Sciences I
BIO 102 - Biological Sciences II
BIO 206 - Cell and Molecular Biology
BIO 263 - Genetics
BIO 352 - Bioinformatics (3 credits)
CHE 201 - Analytical Chemistry* (3 credits)
CHE 202L - Quantitative Analysis Laboratory* (1 credit)
CHE 211 - Organic Chemistry I
CHE 212 - Organic Chemistry II
CHE 315 - Introduction to Scientific Presentations (1 credit)
CHE 401 - Physical Chemistry I
CHE 440/441 - Biochemistry I and II (7 credits)
BIO 442L - Advanced Biochemistry Laboratory Techniques (1 credit)
CHE 444 - Senior Seminar (3 credits)
CHE 488 or RCHE 466 – Internship or Research Chemistry
CHE/PHY elective* (3-4 credits)
BIO elective* (3-4 credits)
MAT 130* - Calculus I
MAT 131 - Calculus II
CHE 450 - History of Science (3 credits)
PHY 111* - University Physics I
PHY 112 - University Physics II

* satisfies core requirement

Total credits for major: 69-71

NOTE: Biochemistry majors are also required to take one chemistry/physics elective and one biology elective from a selection of courses which include: BIO280-Virus Discovery; BIO308- General Microbiology, BIO/PHY401-Biophysics, BIO430-Developmental Biology, CHE402- Physical Chemistry II, CHE407-Instrumental Chemistry, BIO351-Biochemistry of Cancer, BIO301-General Physiology or others with approval of the Department Chairperson.

Learning Outcomes

Cabrini University Biochemistry majors will:

understand foundational biological, chemical, and physical science concepts, as emphasized in the core science course requirements (Biochemistry; Genetics; Cell Biology; Molecular Biology; Organic Chemistry; Physical Chemistry)
demonstrate the ability to apply the scientific method and will possess problem solving skills necessary to design, conduct, and troubleshoot experiments and to test a hypothesis
focuses on the critical thinking and analytical skills necessary to read, understand, and critically review scientific papers and to interpret and analyze data presented in various forms (i.e. graphs, tables, narrative)
develop written and oral communication skills necessary to present scientific ideas to multiple audiences using the accepted format of the discipline
acquire basic proficiency in computational skills, lab techniques, and use of technology (i.e., lab equipment, specialized computer hardware and software) necessary for entry into the science workplace or graduate/professional schools