Biochemistry Learning Outcomes

The Biochemistry Program’s Learning Outcomes ensure that each of the four themes not only cover nine core standards, but also integrate them in a way that prepares our graduates for the multifaceted nature of a career in biochemistry. Through these core standards, graduates are equipped with the scientific, technical, and ethical foundation necessary to excel in both academic and professional settings in the field of biochemistry. To maintain good standing in the biochemistry program students must: maintain a 2.0 GPA and demonstrate proficiency in a capstone project that showcases their comprehensive understanding and application of biochemistry.

Theme 1. Scientific Inquiry and Problem-Solving. Graduates are equipped with a deep understanding of biochemical principles and apply these principles to investigate scientific questions. 

Core Standards 1: Foundational Knowledge in Biochemistry. Graduates have insights into how biological molecules are structured and their function, how metabolic pathways operate, and how genetic information is expressed and regulated.

Core Standard 2: Research and Inquiry. Graduates apply the scientific method to formulate hypotheses, design experiments, and analyze data to draw meaningful conclusions. Graduates apply problem-solving skills to tackle complex biochemical questions by integrating knowledge from various areas including, chemistry, biology, physics and mathematics.  

Theme 2. Quantitative and Analytical Skills. Biochemistry graduates utilize their technical and analytical skills needed to perform accurate and meaningful biochemical research. Graduates are well-prepared to conduct rigorous biochemical research and to contribute valuable data to the scientific community.

Core Standards 3: Laboratory Skills and Techniques. Graduates design and implement experiments using modern laboratory equipment and techniques such as spectroscopy, chromatography, and electrophoresis.  Additionally, graduates analyze and interpret experimental data, which is fundamental for deriving insights from biochemical research.

Core Standard 4: Information Literacy.  Graduates efficiently locate and evaluate scientific literature. This includes, searching for relevant research articles, interpretation of scientific data, and integrate findings from various sources into their own research. 

Theme 3. Communication Skills. Biochemistry graduates convey their scientific ideas and discoveries clearly and persuasively, contributing to the broader dialogue within the scientific community and society at large.

Core Standard 5:  Written Communication. Graduates write clear and concise scientific reports, research papers, and grant proposals. These skills are vital for documenting and sharing research findings with the scientific community and beyond. Graduates write in a structured and persuasive manner that is crucial conveying finding accurately, ethically, and to industry standards.   

Core Standard 6: Oral Communication. Graduates present their research and scientific ideas effectively through public speaking, using visual aids, and tailoring presentations to different audiences, whether they are scientific peers, policymakers, or the general public. 

Theme 4: Information Literacy and Ethical Analysis. Graduates are equipped to effectively locate, understand, and critically evaluate scientific information. They have the ability to assess both the methodological accuracy and the ethical considerations of scientific studies, including their broader implications. 

Core Standard 7. Information Literacy.  Graduates proficiently use databases and other resources to find relevant research papers, as well as effectively evaluate the quality and relevance of these sources. 

Core Standard 8: Scientific Ethics. Graduates adhere to ethical principles in scientific research and practice. This includes issues related to scientific integrity, such as avoiding data fabrication or plagiarism, and ensuring the ethical treatment of research subjects. Graduates understand that scientific ethics is crucial for maintaining public trust in science and for ensuring the validity and reliability of research findings.

Core Standard 9: Critical Evaluation of Scientific Arguments. Graduates can critically assess scientific data and arguments. This involves analyzing the methodology, results, and conclusions of research studies to determine their validity and reliability.