Major in Biochemistry

Beloit College's biochemistry program is unique in the nation. You will learn to understand—not memorize—the basis for the biological revolution occurring in our world. Stem cells, cloning, telomeres, aging, gene therapy—these are the issues facing biochemists and molecular biologists today. If you choose to attend Beloit College, you will gain the education and experience necessary to extend your knowledge of these and the many other topics challenging today's scientific community.

The biochemistry major is designed to allow as much flexibility as possible in course selection so that students can tailor the program to meet a variety of career goals. Some students focus on cloning and gene expression, others on antioxidants, the structure of molecules, even the function of telomeres. Pre-medical students often emphasize biotechnology or physiology. As a biochemistry major, students are considered to be part of both the biology and chemistry departments, and they receive the same individual attention that faculty give to their majors.

The biochemistry major teaches students to think, to be creative, to design experiments and analyze data—skills that prepare students for whatever they decide to do after graduation. Interpersonal skills are also important. Through small-group projects, such as collaborative exams and cooperative homework assignments, Beloit develops each student's ability to work with others successfully.

Our students are prepared for a variety of exciting options. More than 90 percent go on for an advanced degree, not only the M.D. or Ph.D., but for M.B.A. and law degrees as well. Our majors become doctors and researchers in academia, government, and industry, and they also go on to become lawyers, investment bankers, political advisors, and business executives.

You learn best by doing, and it doesn't hurt if you get paid at the same time! Opportunities for students to do research for credit or salary abound both during the summer and the academic year. This includes opportunities at Beloit College, in off-campus programs, and worldwide. Current on-campus research includes such areas as the mechanism of cellular aging, in vivo expression of proteins, biochemical evolution of the genetic code, and the sexual development of guinea pigs. Research by four undergraduates at Beloit on excretion of vitamin C was reported on the front page of USA Today. Off-campus, students do research at national labs and at distinguished companies, universities, and hospitals throughout the world.