Biochemistry

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Biochemistry program at Duquesne University offers a comprehensive exploration of the core principles and applications of biochemistry. chemistry, while investigating the properties and reactions of organic compounds.

Practical experience is a cornerstone of our program. As you progress, you'll have opportunities to collaborate closely with faculty, delving into independent research projects. This isn't just about earning a degree; it's about showcasing your passion and expertise by presenting your findings not only at on campus research symposiums but also on a national stage at prestigious meetings. It's a path filled with discovery, challenges, and endless opportunities to make your mark in the field of biochemistry.

Tailored towards healthcare professions, our program includes a pre-medical track, equipping students for advanced studies or medical school. Whether aspiring to be a physician, dentist, pharmacist, or pursuing other healthcare roles, our curriculum provides a solid foundation for future endeavors. 

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Program Information

The Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry program involves training in organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry as well as in biology, genetics, and biochemistry. Elective coursework is also available to pursue interests in a variety of advanced topics involving the chemistry of biological systems.

Program Type

Major

Degree

Bachelor's

Academic Department

Chemistry and Biochemistry

Duration

4-year

Required Credit Hours

120

The Student Experience

a picture of veronica

"Coming from Puerto Rico, I thought that I might stand out or not fit in quite right, but as soon as I got to Duquesne, I felt like I belonged."

Verónica Doble BS in Biochemistry

Join A Student Organization

Explore our diverse array of clubs and organizations spanning interests in biochemistry and other STEM programs. With guidance from faculty advisors and staff, you'll have the opportunity to meet students with similar interests, organize events and make a positive impact in your community.

Prepared For Anything

Graduate Education

Graduate studies in biochemistry pave the way for specialized research and advanced career opportunities. Pursue a master's or doctoral degree in biochemistry, delving deeper into the intricacies of the field and making significant contributions to scientific knowledge.

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After Duquesne

A wide array of career opportunities awaits biochemistry graduates. Enter the world of biochemical research, unraveling the mysteries of life and contributing to scientific advancements. Explore the fields of medical biochemistry and pharmaceutical chemistry, working at the forefront of drug discovery and development. Biochemical analysis and laboratory expertise open doors to various industries, including biotechnology, healthcare, and academia.

Suggested Course Sequence

To assist students in achieving their academic goals within the B.S. in Biochemistry program, we recommend the following course sequence. It is important to note that BRDG courses can be completed in any order throughout the undergraduate curriculum, allowing for greater flexibility in scheduling.

Undergraduate research is highly encouraged. Our department recognizes the value of research and the significant contributions it can make to the scientific community.

Fall Semester (17 credits)
  • CHEM 151 Atomic & Molec Principles (4 credits)
  • CHEM 151L Intro to Chemistry Lab (1 credit)
  • BIOL 111 / 111L Biology I / Lab (4 credits)
  • BRDG 101 Writing and Analysis (3 credits)
  • MATH 115 Calculus I (4 credits)
  • CHEM 153 Career Op in Chem and Biochem I (1 credit)

Spring Semester (17 credits)
  • CHEM 152 Quantitative Analysis (4 credits)
  • CHEM 152L Quantitative Analysis Lab (1 credit)
  • BIOL 112 / 112L Biology II / Lab (4 credits)
  • BRDG 102 Writing and Literature (3 credits)
  • MATH 116 Calculus II (4 credits)
  • BRDG 100 Research & Info Skills (1 credit)
Fall Semester (16 credits)
  • CHEM 228 Structure, Mech & React (4 credits)
  • CHEM 228L Org Struct & Properties Lab (1 credit)
  • PHYS 211/R Gen Analy Phys I/Rec (3 credits)
  • PHYS 211L GAP I Lab (1 credit)
  • BIOL 212 Cell Molec Biol (4 credits)
  • EQ xxx Essential Questions Seminar (3 credits)

Spring Semester (16 credits)
  • CHEM 229 Reacts, Synths & Spectroscopy (4 credits)
  • CHEM 229L Organic Synthesis Lab (1 credit)
  • PHYS 212/R Gen Analy Phys II/Rec (3 credits)
  • PHYS 212L GAP II Lab  (1 credit)
  • ENGL 302W Scientific Writing (3 credits)
  • CHEM 154 Career Op in Chem and Biochem II (1 credit)
  • BRDG 105 Intro to Ethical Reasoning (3 credits)
Fall Semester (16 credits)
  • CHEM 340 Instrumental Analysis (3 credits)
  • CHEM 419 Adv Biochemistry I (3 credits)
  • CHEM 305L/R Adv Lab Skills/R (1 credit)
  • MATH 225 Intro to Biostatistics(3 credits)
  • BRDG 105 Intro to Ethical Reasoning (3 credits)
  • Biochem/Chem/Math/Biol Elective (3 credits)

Spring Semester (13 credits)
  • CHEM 329 Thermodynamics (3 credits)
  • CHEM 436 Adv Biochemistry II (3 credits)
  • Biochem/Chem Elective (3 credits)
  • SPRG 108 Service Learning in Science (0-1 credits)
  • General Elective (Theology) (3 credits)
  • CHEM 155 Career Op in Chem and Biochem III (1 credit)
Fall Semester (13 credits)
  • CHEM 426L/R Adv Exp Tech/Applct (4 credits)
  • Biochemistry Elective (3 credits)
  • General Elective (3 credits)
  • Bridges Course - Social & Hist Reasoning (3 credits)

Spring Semester (12 credits)
  • Bridges Course - Ethical Reasoning (3 credits)
  • Bridges Course - Critical Think & Prob Solv (3 credits)
  • General Elective (Philosophy) (3 credits)
  • Bridges Course - Cultural Fluency (3 credits)

Elective Offerings

Students must take four advanced electives. One elective must be a biochemistry elective. The second department elective may be a biochemistry or chemistry elective. The remaining two electives may be chemistry, biochemistry, biology or math electives from the approved lists.

  • CHEM 436 Advanced Biochemistry ll
  • CHEM 508 Biomolecular Structure and Function
  • CHEM 527 Biophysical & Biochem Char of Macro
  • CHEM 529 Enzyme Kinetics and Mechanisms
  • CHEM 541 Structural Proteomics
  • CHEM 543 Protein Nucleic Acid Interactions
  • CHEM 452 Environmental Chemistry
  • CHEM 503 Advanced Organic Chemistry
  • CHEM 519 Advanced Biochemistry I
  • CHEM 526 Organotransition Metal Chemistry
  • CHEM 528 Polymer Chemistry
  • CHEM 540 Molecular Visualization and Sim Methods
  • CHEM 544 Advanced Inorganic Chemistry
  • CHEM 547 Reaction Mechanisms
  • CHEM 549 Single Crystal X-ray Crystallography
  • CHEM 565 Advanced Instrumental Analysis
  • CHEM 566 Mass Spectrometry Instrumental Analysis
  • CHEM 567 Statistical Thermodynamics
  • CHEM 590 Green Chemistry
  • CHEM 598 Special Topics
  • MATH 310 Linear Algebra
  • MATH 314 Differential Equations
  • MATH 335 Biostatistics Il

I Can Help You Reach Your Bigger Goals!

As your enrollment coordinator, I can help you get started on your academic path. Please contact me if you have questions.

Maddy Gormley

Enrollment Coordinator

School of Science and Engineering

Maddy Gormley