BS in Biochemistry

Biochemistry focuses on the chemical processes occurring in the wide variety of living systems and touches essentially all aspects of our own lives. Our Northeastern program engages you in two integrated paths to a career in biochemistry: rigorous coursework that prepares you to interpret the ever-expanding knowledge base and hands-on learning that positions you to leverage cutting-edge technology to solve fundamental problems in the chemistry of life. After required basic coursework in biochemistry, biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics, our majors select elective courses that reflect many areas of biochemistry including neuroscience, bioorganic chemistry, stem cell & regenerative biology, microbial biotechnology, and systems biology & engineering. In our interdisciplinary program, students take advantage of faculty-mentored research guided by investigators from bioengineering, biology, chemical engineering, chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, physics, psychology and other academic units. Northeastern’s signature co-op programs provide complementary opportunities in world-class biotechnology companies, hospitals and research facilities as close as Boston and as far as your global interest take you. Our biochemistry program prepares students to enter the job market directly or go on to graduate, medical, veterinary, dental, law, or business school. Our graduates are qualified for a wide range of careers that span academics, industry, government and medicine, working in laboratory or clinical research, regulation and quality control, production, marketing, or information systems. Program Goals: Northeastern’s biochemistry program is accredited by the American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and embraces the goals developed by the ASBMB. Core Concepts: Energy is required by and transformed in biological systems. Macromolecular structure determines function and regulation. Information storage and flow are dynamic and interactive. Discovery requires objective measurement, quantitative analysis, and clear communication. Core Learning Goals: Understanding of the fundamentals of chemistry and biology and the key principles of biochemistry and molecular biology. Ability to assess primary papers critically. Ability to dissect a problem into its key features. Ability to interpret experimental data and identify consistent and inconsistent components. Ability to design follow-up experiments. Ability to work safely and effectively in a laboratory. Ability to use computers as information and research tools. Ability to collaborate with other researchers. Ability to use oral, written and visual presentations to present their work to both a science literate and a science non-literate audience. Awareness of the ethical issues in the molecular life sciences.