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Biochemistry

College of Sciences


 

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  Biochemistry
  Study Options
  Biochemistry Facilities
  Careers in Biochemistry
  Suggested Strengths, Interests, and Preparation
  Scholarships and Financial Aid
  Contact Information

Biochemistry

Biochemistry is the study of life on the molecular level. It combines approaches from chemistry, physics, and biology to study the fundamental mechanisms of living things and is the central discipline of the molecular biosciences and their biomedical applications.

• Offered at WSU: Bachelor of science in biochemistry with a major option in molecular biology or molecular biophysics; minor, master of science, and doctorate in biochemistry
• Available at: Pullman

Study Options

Students choose one of two options that are offered in the biochemistry degree program:
• Molecular Biology provides increased emphasis on cell biology and molecular genetics, integrating genetics with the study of life on the molecular level.
• Biochemistry/ Biophysics provides increased emphasis on physics and mathematics, applying physics and math to the study of life on the molecular level.

Biochemistry Facilities

Biochemistry students have access to the following outstanding lab facilities:
• Equipment for ultracentrifugation, recombinant DNA techniques, HPLC, protein analysis and purification, DNA sequencing and synthesizing, and more.
• Bioanalytical Laboratory
• Electron Microscopy Center
• Nuclear Radiation Center
• Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Center.
• X-ray Crystallography Laboratory
• Science Learning and Instruction Center (SLIC), a resource center for science majors that provides computer access, science software and videos, old tests, and other study aids
• Owen Science and Engineering Library, the largest library of its kind in the Northwest

Careers in Biochemistry

Biochemistry majors have wide and diverse career opportunities in the life sciences. Careers open to graduates in this major include technical positions in the food, pharmaceutical, agricultural, and biotechnology industries, private or governmental laboratories, and nonprofit institutions such as clinical and hospital laboratories and at institutes that focus on research. Graduates are also prepared to pursue advanced degree work in medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, and other fields. With advanced degrees, they teach at the college level or conduct basic or applied research in the government, higher education, or private industry. Others have careers in law, business, and government.

Suggested Strengths, Interests, and Preparation

• A good high school preparation in biology, chemistry, and mathematics
• At least three years of sciences and math in high school recommended
• Strong reading, writing, reasoning, and computer skills

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Biochemistry majors are eligible for scholarships offered by the College of Sciences and the School of Molecular Biosciences. Additionally, a variety of federal, state, and University-sponsored programs are available to assist qualified students with education costs.

Contact Information
School of Molecular Biosciences
Washington State University
PO Box 647520
Pullman, WA 99164-7520
smbugrad@wsu.edu
509-335-1276
 

Strengths of the Program

  • Study with faculty noted for their work in protein biochemistry, DNA repair, structural biology, and reproductive biology.
  • Undertake a research project of your own under a noted faculty researcher.
  • Learn research techniques and operate advanced equipment.
  • Individualize your course of study within the School of Molecular Biosciences.
  • You can join a math, science, and engineering community residence hall at WSU Pullman—share classes with your neighbors, study together, get free tutoring, and use the hall’s computer lab.
Office of Enrollment Management, PO Box 641067, Washington State University, Pullman WA 99164-1067, 888-GO TO WSU (888-468-6978), Contact Us