While biologists often focus on large structures within organisms and chemists focus
on molecules and reactions, biochemists and molecular biologists focus on the chemical
reactions and structures that make organisms “tick” at the molecular level. A major
in biochemistry and molecular biology is rigorous and comprehensive because it combines
the academic preparation of both the biology and chemistry major.
Why study biochemistry and molecular biology at CBU?
Take specially designed classes At CBU, professors are dedicated to their students, and every major class and lab
is taught by a full-time faculty member. In both classes and research, students can
use our state-of-the-art equipment and facilities. All courses in this major are purposefully
chosen so students can experience the interface of the biological and chemical sciences.
We designed two courses specifically for the BMB major—"Proteomics, Genomics and Bioinformatics”
and “Lab Techniques in Molecular Biology.” Most universities do not offer these specialized
courses for undergraduate majors.
Prepare for a career in the field A major in biochemistry and molecular biology is excellent preparation for medical
school or for work as a research scientist in hospitals or industrial labs. Some graduates
also work for biotechnology firms, developing the pharmaceuticals and healthcare products
of tomorrow. Professors encourage students to try out their desired vocation beforehand
as many students discover through internships and research that they are actually
better suited for a field different than they first thought.
Genetics
BIO 313
The principles of genetics including Mendelian, nature of genetic materials, chromosome
mechanics, genetic recombination, and gene action.
Lab Techniques in Molecular Biology
BIO 430
This laboratory-based course is designed for each student to gain a fundamental knowledge
of molecular biology techniques that are regularly used in a research lab setting.
Proteomics, Genomics, and Bioinformatics
BIO 435
This course introduces students to concepts in molecular and genetic basis of cellular
processes and the inferences made of these processes through genome and protein database
analyses and modeling.
Student Learning Outcomes
SLO 1: Students will be able to evaluate matters of worldview, intellectual virtues
(i.e. critical thinking) and assessing disciplinary content consistent with biblical
teachings. SLO 2: Students will be able to use the peer reviewed scientific literature effectively
and evaluate technical articles critically. SLO 3: Students will demonstrate proficiency in accurately conveying scientific data
both orally and in writing. SLO 4: Upon completion of each year of chemistry coursework (general, organic, analytical
and physical), students will attain knowledge comparable to national standards in
these areas of chemistry. SLO 5: Students will be able to apply appropriate technology (including molecular
modeling) and mathematical tools to their study of chemistry.
Take the next step toward living your purpose
As you make decisions about college, keep in mind the full social, spiritual and educational
experience awaiting you at CBU. Here, you will be supported by professors, staff and
fellow students who will help you discover your strengths and challenge you to do
more than you ever thought you could. Let us equip you with the education, training
and opportunities you'll need to start making a unique difference doing what you love.
Apply today! When you complete and submit your application to CBU, a friendly and
knowledgeable admissions counselor will guide you through the admissions process and
all the necessary steps to become a Lancer.
Request More Information
Career Opportunities
Educator
Researcher
Doctor
Pharmacologist
Environmental Specialist
Forensic Specialist
*Some career opportunities may require further education
"I want to go into the healthcare field, and the biochemistry and molecular biology
major provides a good baseline for the sciences. I respect my professors greatly and
value their input into my academic career. I have definitely grown spiritually as
a biochemistry major. Seeing life on the molecular level and understanding how microscopic
actions affect macroscopic world inspires great awe for God as the Creator (and Master
Scientist!)." Savannah Perez, 2018
"I want to be a pre-med student and become a pediatrician. The professors in this program
have been a great influence and are inspiring. I like how they incorporate prayer
and God's wonders into their teachings." Elizabeth Bocanegra, 2021
"My professors have been instrumental to my success as a student. Not only have they
prepared me academically, but they have also shared invaluable insight and taken me
under their wing in mentorship. I aspire to continue on to graduate school, earning
my Ph.D in chemistry or biochemistry. This will launch me into the world of research,
where I hope to continue to grow in learning just how to inquire about the world we
live in and work in uncovering some of its curiosities." Julia Brushett, 2019
Alumni Spotlight
"When I was at CBU I was given much opportunity to interact with the professors (unlike
big schools). They gave me opportunities so that I can better myself as a scientist.
I am currently doing my doctorate degree in biochemistry, which I say was mostly due
to courses that I took while at CBU." Ngango Yvon Rugema, 2014
Meet Some of Our Faculty
Tom Ferko
Professor of Chemistry
I studied chemistry when I was in college and analytical chemistry in graduate school
because I wanted to discover how the world works on the atomic and molecular level.
Through teaching, I get to help students see how chemistry impacts their lives, majors,
and the order of the world around us. Every day studying chemistry is a day looking
at what God has created.
I grew up loving math and science. In junior high, my principal told us that if we
enjoyed biology, chemistry, math, physics, and computers we should consider this new
field called bioinformatics. I went on to study biochemistry, genetics, and bioinformatics
and have loved the intersection of the disciplines as they reveal the complexity of
God’s design in us.
I fell in love with medicine and academia after watching one doctor treat his own
wounds in "The Fugitive" and another seek treasures of God in the Indiana Jones trilogy.
I decided to venture into the field of biomedical engineering where I learned to appreciate
God's creation using science and technology. Now, I have a unique privilege of exploring
and helping my students appreciate the interconnectivity and intimacy of God and the
world He created.
I studied chemistry when I was in college and analytical chemistry in graduate school
because I wanted to discover how the world works on the atomic and molecular level.
Through teaching, I get to help students see how chemistry impacts their lives, majors,
and the order of the world around us. Every day studying chemistry is a day looking
at what God has created.
I grew up loving math and science. In junior high, my principal told us that if we
enjoyed biology, chemistry, math, physics, and computers we should consider this new
field called bioinformatics. I went on to study biochemistry, genetics, and bioinformatics
and have loved the intersection of the disciplines as they reveal the complexity of
God’s design in us.
I fell in love with medicine and academia after watching one doctor treat his own
wounds in "The Fugitive" and another seek treasures of God in the Indiana Jones trilogy.
I decided to venture into the field of biomedical engineering where I learned to appreciate
God's creation using science and technology. Now, I have a unique privilege of exploring
and helping my students appreciate the interconnectivity and intimacy of God and the
world He created.