Biochemistry Major

Programs of study are available in the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology lead to both graduate and undergraduate degrees.

The best reason for studying biochemistry is that it is the study of ourselves and our chemical relationship wtih the environment. Beyond this intrinsic interest, biochemistry is a foundation for many careers. It provides an excellent preparation for careers in biochemistry, microbiology immunology and other biomedical sciences. biomedical engineering, the designing of materials and instruments for therapy and diagnosis, has roots in biochemistry. Much of the work of the director of a clinical laboratory is biochemical. Recombinant DNA research and monoclonal antibody production provide new diagnostic tools, new therapies, new ways to fight pests, improve agriculture, and clean the environment. Pharmaceutical companies need biochemists to design and evaluate new drugs. The biochemistry major is an excellent preparation of professional training in medicine, dentistry, clinical nutrition, public health, and veterinary medicine. Finally, biochemistry training with its broad foundation in biology, chemistry, physics, and math, is an ideal program for future science teachers.

Undergraduate Programs

A student planning to earn a biochemistry degree in four years must begin chemistry and calculus in the freshman year. The biochemistry immersion begins with BIOC 445-446-448L, an 11-hour package in the junior year that intensively develops the principles and practices of biochemistry. This is paralleled with opportunities for research, as well as more specialized courses in the junior and senior years. Arts and sciences group requirements should be programmed all through the four years
Although the major in biochemistry is offered by the college of arts and sciences, the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology is organizationally and physically part of the school of medicine just north of the main campus. Some courses are given on the main campus, while more advanced courses and senior research are conducted in two modern, excellently equipped buildings in the Medical School complex.
The Bachelors degree in biochemistry meets or exceeds all of the curricular recommendations suggested by both the American Chemical Society and the American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. In addition, the program is consistent with current national recommendations for education practices in the 21 st century. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology education at the University of New Mexico is a small but comprehensive program in which instruction takes place in classes with relative few students in small cooperative learning communities. Where possible instruction is individualized and there is significant interaction between student and faculty. The program strives to make research-based, and inquiry-based learning the normal learning mode and encourages all students to become actively involved in the research and teaching opportunities available within the department. Each spring there is a capstone experience for students at the annual departmental retreat in which students present the results of their individual research projects.
Academic advisement for biochemistry majors contact:
Marcy P. Osgood, Ph.D. Undergraduate Program Director MOsgood@salud.unm.edu