What is Biochemistry?

Biochemistry is the study of the molecules and chemical reactions of life. The defining feature of biochemistry is that it uses the principles of chemistry to explain biology at the molecular level. Biochemistry is a relatively new area, less than a hundred years old, but advances are occurring at a remarkable rate for several reasons.

1. We now understand many central processes of life. These discoveries include the structure of DNA and the flow of information, the unraveling of central metabolic pathways, and the structure and function of many proteins.

2. We now understand molecular patterns which are common to diverse expressions of life in simple and complex organisms, including plants and animals.

3. We now understand the molecular causes of many diseases and this helps in the diagnosis and treatment of many health problems.

Understanding biochemical concepts and techniques enables researchers to attack fundamental problems in biology and medicine. Some of these might include: How does a fertilized egg give rise to cells as different as muscle, brain, liver? How do cells communicate in a complex organ? How is the growth of cells controlled? What causes cancer? What is the molecular mechanism of memory? How can genetic engineering be applied?

Biochemistry at UW-Platteville

The four year degree program at UW-Platteville leading to a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a Biochemistry Emphasis provides the graduate with the appropriate chemistry/biology/biochemistry background to succeed in bachelor's level positions or in graduate/professional schools.

The student in this program is required to take courses in the major areas of chemistry - general, inorganic, organic, quantitative analysis, and physical chemistry as well as seven credits of biochemistry. All chemistry majors are required to take one year of general physics and at least two semesters of calculus. For the biochemistry emphasis, students replace some of the theoretical courses in chemistry with courses which include: either botany or zoology; microbiology; and one of the following: cell biology, genetics, biotechnology or immunology.

The Faculty

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville has nine full-time chemistry faculty with specialties in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, environmental chemistry, inorganic chemistry, instrumental analysis, organic chemistry, and physical chemistry. Advanced chemistry classes are kept small to ensure that there is considerable opportunity for interaction with instructors who are dedicated to providing sound, balanced instruction. The Chemistry Program has been approved by the American Chemical Society.

Facilities

Laboratories are located in Ottensman Hall, a modern air-conditioned facility with well-equipped laboratories. Instrumentation includes ultra centrifuge, UV/VIS/NIR spectrometer, high performance liquid chromatograph, scanning electron microscope, gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer, fluorescence spectrometer, FT-NMR spectrometer, and FT-IR spectrometer. A wide variety of other modern instrumentation is also available for student use, both as part of course work or in undergraduate research. In the interest of safety, the laboratory hoods have been completely replaced and the ventilation system upgraded. All laboratories are networked for computer transferral of data and a well-updated computer laboratory is available for students.

Student Activities

Students in the biochemistry program at UW-Platteville participate in the "Alchemists", an active student affiliate of the American Chemical Society. Alchemists' activities include field trips, chemical demonstrations at area elementary schools, and presentations by and informal discussions with visiting industrial and academic chemists.

Career Opportunities in Biochemistry

Careers in the health fields will always be available, especially as new data leads to better diagnosis and treatment. An undergraduate degree in chemistry with a biochemistry emphasis will provide preparation for professional programs in human medicine, veterinary medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, etc, as well as provide the background for graduate programs in any of the life sciences. There are positions at the bachelor's level in laboratories doing research, product development, or quality control, as well as sales, marketing and information providers. Workers in the environmental fields would also be served by this program. The increase in biotechnology companies is also expected to increase the number of positions available.

Scholarships

A number of scholarships are available to students in the biochemistry program including the Leo J. Boebel, Roger L. Davies, Glen V. Gundy; Gerald F. Richards; Glen Tilbury; William H. Williams; and Chemistry Faculty Emeriti Scholarships. Students may also be eligible for other college and university scholarships.

Recommended High School Courses

Student success is enhanced when students take the maximum number of courses in mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, and English. UW-Platteville offers test-out examinations for students with advanced preparation.

Every student majoring in chemistry must meet the writing certification requirement as established by the department. Details may be obtained from the department chairperson.

Phys 1140, 1110, 1240, and 1210 or 2530, 2510, 2640 and 2610 (Introductory or General Physics) and Math 2640 and 2740 (Calculus and Analytic Geometry), or equivalent, are required as prerequisites to advanced chemistry courses.

Students who expect to enter graduate programs in biochemistry or related areas such as physiology, molecular biology, microbiology, etc., are advised to elect additional advanced courses appropriate to their career goals after consultation with their advisor. Students who expect to enter graduate programs in chemistry are advised to elect additional advanced courses in chemistry or to elect the ACS major.

A proposed 4-year class schedule is available as well as a course checksheet.