Biochemistry (BS)

Program Overview

The biochemistry program at Binghamton University is a joint effort of the biological sciences and chemistry departments.

Degrees Offered

• BS in Biochemistry

Internships, Research Opportunities and More

Since biochemistry is primarily a laboratory science, the curriculum emphasizes modern laboratory techniques and encourages students to participate in independent biochemical laboratory research. The biochemistry major offers students the opportunity to work with professors in biochemical research.

Learn more about our Honors Program.

For more information on summer programs, internships and research outside of Binghamton University visit, summer programs.

Coursework

Some courses to consider in your first year:

• CHEM 107 - Gen Chem I CHEM/BCHEM Majors

  First of two courses for students who want a one-year, two-semester introductory general chemistry course as basis for further work in a science. Scientific measurement, atomic structure, periodic relationships, theories of bonding, states of matter, solution properties. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: high school chemistry. Not open to students who have credit for CHEM 111. Credits: 4. Format: 3 hour lecture; 2 hour discussion; 3 hour laboratory per week. Offered: Fall. Course fee applies. Refer to the Schedule of Classes. Levels: Graduate, Undergraduate

• BIOL 117 - Intro Bio: See BIOL 114

  Intro Bio: See BIOL 114 Levels: Graduate, Undergraduate

• BIOL 118 - Intro Bio See BIOL 113

  Intro Bio See BIOL 113 Levels: Undergraduate

• CHEM 108 - Gen Chem II CHEM/BCHEM Majors

  Continuation of CHEM 107. Thermochemistry and thermodynamics; equilibrium; chemical kinetics; electrochemistry; nuclear chemistry; descriptive inorganic, organic and biochemistry.. Prerequisite: CHEM 107 or equivalent. Not open to students who have credit for CHEM 111. Credits: 4. Format: 3 hour lecture; 2 hour discussion; 3 hour laboratory per week. Offered: Spring. Course fee applies. Refer to the Schedule of Classes. Levels: Undergraduate

After You Graduate

Students with a biochemistry degree gain the skills necessary to apply biochemical and molecular biological techniques in a variety of careers. These include: pharmacology, medical diagnostics (human and veterinary), biomaterials engineering, bioremediation of pollution, food and drug regulation, improvement of agricultural plants and livestock through genetic engineering, etc., as well as basic research.

Many entry-level jobs are available to biochemistry graduates in industrial, hospital, governmental and academic laboratories. Biochemistry also provides a foundation for law school (i.e., practicing patent law for a biotechnology company), medical school or business management (i.e., working as an administrator for a biotechnology company).