Biochemistry Major

Program Contact/Coordinator
James A. Rice, Professor and Head
South Dakota State University
131 Avera Health Sciences Building
Box 2202
Brookings, SD 57007
605-688-5151
e-mail: james.rice@sdstate.edu
chembiochem.sdstate.edu
Click here for additional information. 

Program Description
One of the fastest growing scientific disciplines is also one of the youngest – biochemistry. Biochemistry is the application of atomic and molecular principles to the description of plant and animal life processes. This multi-faceted science includes the study of all life forms and depends on basic concepts derived from chemistry, biology, physics, and mathematics. Training in biochemistry at the undergraduate level positions students well for careers in biotechnology, pharmaceutical development, government laboratories, and is very appropriate as a pre-professional course of study. The B.S. in Biochemistry curriculum at SDSU builds upon a solid foundation in chemistry, and incorporates selected aspects of biology, physics, and mathematics to complete the undergraduate degree. In addition to completing the degree requirements listed below, biochemistry students engage in undergraduate research with faculty members in the department.

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completing a B.S. in Biochemistry, graduates will demonstrate the following capacities:

• Posses a foundational knowledge of the contemporary theories of biochemistry and molecular biology
• Apply the foundational knowledge of the field toward answering unknown questions
• Effectively communicate scientific information in written and verbal formats
• Safely handle chemical/biological agents and chemical equipment
• Become proficient in the design and execution of experimental procedures
• Use a variety of techniques to evaluate experimental outcomes
• Develop the human skills to work effectively and efficiently in a team setting
• Efficiently search the relevant chemical literature
• Develop an understanding of the career opportunities within and outside of the field

Course Delivery Format
Courses offered in the Biochemistry curriculum are taught in a variety of formats which address student learning outcomes: Didactic (lecture) methods ensure the development of foundational knowledge of chemistry; Practical (laboratory) methods ensure the development of laboratory skills and training; A combination of didactic and practical methods ensure the successful completion of the undergraduate research project.