Biochemistry
(BIOCHEM)


The UO Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers majors in chemistry and biochemistry. Biochemistry majors complete an integrated, rigorous program that includes foundational course work in chemistry and biochemistry and additional course work in related fields. Undergraduate majors also benefit from taking graduate courses in synthetic modeling, physical chemistry, materials, computational chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, and modern instrumental techniques. The American Chemistry Society-certified degree further emphasizes laboratory experience and the development of professional skills. A unique strength of our program is the opportunity for undergraduates to participate in the activities of a dynamic research group that considers problems extending well beyond textbook instruction.
Top Five
Reasons to Study
This Major
  1. Develop strong critical thinking skills.

  2. Practice collaborative problem solving.

  3. Gain hands-on experience in research.

  4. Prepare yourself for a wide variety of opportunities for future study.

  5. Equip yourself with skills to tackle real-world problems in your future career.



College of Arts and Sciences
541-346-4601
chemistry.uoregon.edu
Where Can I Go?

Students in Biochemistry may choose to pursue a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS), a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MS), or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Biochemistry provides students with a foundation for employment in:

Environmental sciences

Forensic science

Pharmacy and pharmacology

Medicine and medicinal chemistry

Medical technology and biotechnology

Neuroscience

Molecular biology

Materials science

Colleges and universities

Private research labs and organizations 
Alumni Jobs

Laboratory manager

Forensic chemist

Environmental protection scientist

Science policy analyst

Basic and applied researcher

Instructor/high school teacher

Clinical laboratory specialist

Health communications specialist

Bioinformatics specialist

Public health specialist
Courses You
May Need


1st Year
CH 221-223 or CH 224H-226H; CH 227-229 or CH 237-239; MATH 251-253; WR 121; WR 123

2nd Year
BI 281H-282; BI 320; CH 341-343; CH 337; CH 348

3rd Year
CH 461-463; CH 467; PHYS 201-203; PHYS 204-206

4th Year
CH 411-412; CH 401; Advanced Chemistry-Biology Electives


Major Credits
 
Required 125
Electives 20

Total 145



Core Education Requirements


BS or BA Degree Minimum = 180 credits.

Core Education is approximately 71—83 credits depending on transfer credits and placement scores and requires courses in:

Writing

Math and/or CS (BS) or Language (BA)

US: Difference, Inequality, Agency

Global Perspectives

Areas of Inquiry in:

Arts and Letters

Social Science / Science
What Will I Learn?

Qualitative analysis

Experimental design

Statistics

Technical writing

Environmental safety and health

Project management

Forensics

Quality control

Materials science
Experiential learning opportunities

Specialized Courses

Physical Biochemistry

Spectroscopy

Molecular Genetics

Chemical Kinetics

RNA Biochemistry

Structural Biochemistry

Computational Chemistry
Add A Minor Or Certificate

Biology

Computer Information Science

Economics

Business Administration

Psychology

Contact Us

Tykeson College and Career Advising
541-346-9200
advising.uoregon.edu/tykeson

An equal-opportunity, affirmative-action institution committed to cultural diversity and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. This publication will be made available in accessible formats upon request. © 2020 University of Oregon. Revised: 8/17/2020