The biochemistry major is a broadly based program built upon a foundation of chemistry and biology that is strengthened by the study of physics and mathematics. Central to this coursework is experience with modern instrumentation and techniques. This major, combined with Hood’s Core Curriculum, provides students with the educational background that will allow them to pursue post-baccalaureate studies in chemistry, biology, biochemistry or the health professions. It also prepares them for employment in a wide variety of careers ranging from biotechnology to biomedical sciences. Most students take advantage of research and internship opportunities available on campus or at many biomedical and biotechnology laboratories in the Frederick-Baltimore-Washington, D.C., area.
Requirements for the Major
Required:
Recommended Courses
Curricular Directions in Biochemistry
Pre-Medical Studies
For students pursuing a career in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, pharmacology, nursing or an allied health field, the biochemistry major will provide an excellent preparation for professional study. The biochemistry major requirements are most closely aligned with those of the Medical College Admission Test. In order to prepare for the MCAT or the Dental Admission Test, students should complete the following courses by the end of their junior year:
8 or more credits in biology at the 200-level (BIOL 202 and BIOL 203 are recommended)
CHEM 101, CHEM 102 General Chemistry I, II
CHEM 209, CHEM 210 Organic Chemistry I, II
CHEM 301 Biochemistry I
PHYS 101, PHYS 102 General Physics I, II or PHYS 203, PHYS 204 Introductory Physics I, II (requires calculus)
PSY 101 Introduction to Psychology
SOC 101 Principles of Sociology
In addition, some schools will recommend or require additional courses, which most frequently include anatomy and physiology, genetics, microbiology, biochemistry II, a year of English, some calculus and philosophy or ethics. The Health Professions Advisory Committee works closely with the Center for Career Development and Experiential Education to assist students in the medical school application process.
Biotechnology Studies
The biochemistry major provides excellent preparation for careers in rapidly growing biotechnology fields such as genomics and proteomics. Chemistry classes ensure a background in the use of instruments and other modern laboratory techniques. Biochemistry and biology courses cover concepts and techniques used in the biotechnology industry. In addition to the courses required for the major, the following courses are recommended:
CHEM 324 Instrumental Methods of Analysis
BIOL 316 Genetics
BIOL 424/524 Molecular Biology of Eukaryotic Cells
Forensics Studies
The biochemistry major provides excellent preparation for careers in forensic science. Chemistry classes will give you a thorough grounding in the analytical techniques which are used by forensic chemists on a daily basis. Biochemistry and biology courses cover molecular biology concepts and techniques used in DNA analysis. Our explicit pedagogical focus on the scientific method helps students develop the deductive reasoning skills necessary for a successful forensics career. In addition to the courses required for the major, and depending upon students’ specific areas of interest, students may consider taking:
ANTH 201 Introduction to Anthropology
BIOL 316 Genetics
CHEM 324 Instrumental Methods of Analysis
CMA 207 Principles of Speech Communication
CMA 306 Business Writing in the Digital Age
LWPS 230 Introduction to Law
PSY 101 Introduction to Psychology