Biochemistry

Explore the Behavior of Living Systems

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Biochemistry at Ferris provides a core of chemistry courses that includes organic, inorganic, physical chemistry, and biochemistry. These courses take the student through the atomic and molecular nature of matter and ultimately focus on the behaviors of matter in living systems. The chemistry is supported by solid coursework in mathematics, physics and biology. It stresses breadth with fewer required chemistry courses than a Bachelor of Science degree but good scientists also need to be exposed to the arts, the social sciences, and humanities. Biochemistry students should have a particular interest in and aptitude for science, especially as it pertains to living systems, and a desire to explore the connections with other fields of knowledge. Advanced students may participate in independent study and undergraduate research projects.

Biochemistry, a field of study that blends the research focus of biology and chemistry, prepares graduates for a wide variety of occupations. Biochemists work in many environments, including patent law, pharmacology, technology research, toxicology, forensic chemistry, and food nutrition analysis. Biochemists also work directly in chemical, health science, and technology research labs in both public and private industry. A degree in biochemistry can also prepare you for graduate studies in medicine, law, pharmacy, biology, and chemistry. The field of biochemistry is expanding with new technology, thus there is an increased need for research and development, especially in areas of complex health issue such as cancer and infectious diseases. A major in biochemistry provides an education in a dynamic field with applications to suit a wide variety of personal career goals.

Career Opportunities

In these days of rapid advances in the biosciences-from genetically engineered agricultural products to artificial photosynthesis to DNA fingerprinting-there are few careers that have no connection to chemistry and biochemistry. A BA in Biochemistry can prepare a student for a number of professional schools including medical, dental, veterinarian, even law school. Biochemists are often employed as research assistants in industry, government, education and health service. It can also be a very useful degree for individuals who are considering careers in interdisciplinary fields, for example, marketing new technologies, technical writing/communication, forensic analysis and so on. A major in biochemistry provides an education in a dynamic field with applications to suit a wide variety of personal career goals.

Admission Requirements

New Student Admission Requirements

• 2.50 High School GPA (on a 4.00 scale)
• Minimum Composite ACT Score of 17/SAT 900
• High school courses and grade point average, ACT composite score, and ACT Reading and Mathematics subscores will be considered in the admission and placement process.

Transfer Student Admission Requirements

• 2.00 Overall GPA (on a 4.00 scale)
• At least 12 credits, including an English and Mathematics course.