Biochemistry

Overview

For the past 30 years, the biochemistry/ molecular biology linkage has revolutionized our understanding of the living world, disease etiology, and medicine.

Biochemistry is the study of reactions that underpin the living system. These include the vital metabolic reactions that provide cells with energy to perform myriad activities and functions, and the biosynthetic reactions that enable cells to renew, repair, grow, and divide. Of the 15 graduates biochemistry has averaged each year, typically one-third goes to medical school and one-third to graduate school directly after graduation. The remaining one-third work in biotechnology or pharmaceutical industries, conduct research in a university lab before returning to school for higher degree training, or work in allied professions such as patent law, science education, health care consulting, and investment banking.

Bachelor in Biochemistry from Mount Holyoke College offers a rigorous course of study that builds on two years of fundamental course work in biology and chemistry. With this broad preparation, students engage with biochemistry and molecular biology at a very high level, allowing them to integrate their knowledge in molecular and cellular biology, and to think and address issues occurring at the forefront of the biochemical/biomedical sciences. Majors are also encouraged to participate in academic-year and/or summer research and majors usually have more than one research internship experience before graduation.

Knowledge-Based Learning Goals

• Use energy, kinetics and thermodynamics to develop a quantitative and mechanistic view of biological systems.
• Explain the structures, functions, and interactions of biomolecules.
• Describe the flow of information within a cell and between cells.
• Use chemical and biological logic to interpret metabolic pathways and their regulation.
• Apply biochemical knowledge to human health, technology, and society.