Biochemistry (BCM)
Professors Ball and Beckmann; Assistant Professors Calhoun, Doyle and Turk.
The Biochemistry Program at Alma College is an interdisciplinary program emphasizing a strong background in chemistry and biology. Biochemistry is a broad and flexible discipline that uses numerous approaches to investigate chemical and genetic mechanisms that regulate living matter. The student is trained in experimental approaches in protein chemistry, biophysical methods and molecular biological techniques. Team research is built into the curriculum, and opportunities for independent research are numerous.
Alma's Biochemistry major is designed to prepare students for graduate or professional schools. Although most careers require an advanced degree, opportunities exist in academic, industrial and biotechnical research and development sectors.
Major Requirements
- Sixty-four credits consisting of the following: Biochemistry 321, 422 and 430; Biology 121, 204 and 308; Chemistry 115, 223, 224, 230, 331 and 332; Mathematics 121 and 122; Physics 121 and 122.
- Successful completion of the Senior Comprehensive Examination administered by the Department.
Program Considerations
- Potential majors are advised to schedule Mathematics 121-122 and Physics 121-122 in the freshman and sophomore years so they may begin Chemistry 331-332 in the junior year.
- Take note that BCM 422 and BCM 430 are offered in the winter terms of alternating years.
- Students must consult with the Biochemistry chair in their junior year for approval of their programs if deviation from the above curriculum is being requested.
- Completion of an independent research project culminating in a senior thesis is recommended.
- Students bound for graduate school should make careful course selections to support their area of emphasis. Participation in research and additional course work in biology, chemistry and mathematics is desirable.
- Students who declare a Biochemistry major may not elect a second major in Chemistry.
Four credits from BCM, with the exception of practicum or independent study courses, count towards the Distributive Requirements in the Natural Sciences — Life Sciences.
| BCM 180. | Genes and Society | |
|---|---|---|
| 4 credits | $20 | |
| Intended for non-science majors, this course explores the revolution molecular biology, beginning from a brief history of genetics through our current era of genomics. Additional topics covered in the lectures and laboratories include: gene structure and function, a survey of interesting genes relevant to human health, genetic engineering, mapping, fingerprinting, GMO's, cloning, ancient DNA, and much more. | ||
| BCM *321. | Biochemistry | |
| 4 credits | $20 | |
| BIO 121, CHM 224 and CHM 230 | ||
| Overview of the major topics of biochemistry including the chemistry, structure, function, biological activity and molecular mechanisms of the major biological macromolecules. Introduction to bioenergetics and central metabolic pathways. Laboratory. | ||
| BCM *380. | Topics in Biochemistry | |
| 1-4 credits | Fee determined by topic | |
| Permission | ||
| Investigation of selected topics in biochemistry, such as molecular methods and toxicology, through student participation in lecture, discussion and/or laboratory work. | ||
| BCM *422. | Advanced Biochemistry | |
| 4 credits | $20 | |
| BCM 321 | ||
| Further study of intermediary metabolism through the use of historical and current research articles. Introduction to biophysical methods. Emphasis on experimental design, data analysis and integration of biochemical information. Laboratory. | ||
| BCM *430. | Molecular Genetics | |
| 4 credits | $20 | |
| BCM 321 and BIO 204 | ||
| Study of the transmission of information at the molecular level and the techniques used in gene analysis. Topics include gene structure and function, gene expression, genetic mobility, genomics, transgenics and recombinant DNA methodology. Laboratory. | ||
| BCM *499. | Research in Biochemistry | |
| 1-4 credits | $20 | |
| Permission | ||
| Independent research in biochemistry resulting in a written report. | ||
| BCM *500. | Senior Thesis | |
 |
4 credits | $20 |
| Permission | ||
| Independent laboratory research of an original problem resulting in a thesis and public presentation. Required for departmental honors. | ||