The University launched a new pre-med emphasis for undergraduates in biochemistry and molecular biology designed to prepare students to attend professional school, including medical, dental, pharmacy and optometry.

“Biochemistry & Molecular Biology has traditionally been an exceptional degree program for students who are planning to pursue a doctorate in a health care field,” Bob Ryan, chair of the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, said. “The program offers a mix of great teaching in lectures and labs as well as hands-on research opportunities. This new emphasis makes it easier for pre-med students to get the preparation they need to do well in the MCAT and in medical school.”

The department, housed in the College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources, offers a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and molecular biology that covers topics in science and math, such as physics, calculus and statistical methods, alongside biology and chemistry topics, such as cell and molecular biology, genetics, metabolic regulation, organic chemistry, biophysical chemistry and biochemical analysis.

The original course of study is more general, and may be more appropriate for students seeking a broader range of career options, including biotechnicians, policy advisers, forensic scientists, agricultural scientists or educators.

The new pre-med emphasis provides a second, more specialized option specifically focusing on areas of study geared toward students pursuing medical careers.

“We adjusted the curriculum for our existing degree to accommodate the specific needs of those students seeking to go on to professional school,” Ryan said.

For more information, email Assistant Professor Hanna Damke or Teaching Professor Patricia Ellison.