Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Advising Guide

Introduction 

Our understanding of the fundamental chemical processes that take place within the cells of living organisms has undergone dramatic change during the past several decades.  The discovery of the structure of the DNA molecule in the early 1950s has emerged as one of the central events in the history of both biology and chemistry, and has led to unprecedented advances in our knowledge of life and in the ways by which we go about studying it.  The approaches now becoming available offer promise of revolutionary changes in human health care and the treatment of disease.  In some areas, the boundaries between biology and chemistry have disappeared and the traditional disciplines have merged into new fields such as biochemistry and molecular biology.  Dickinson’s program in biochemistry and molecular biology is an interdisciplinary major administered and taught by faculty from both the Biology and Chemistry departments. 

Introductory courses appropriate for prospective majors

All of the courses included in the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology major are regular offerings of the Biology and Chemistry departments.  The appropriate sections of this handbook and the College Bulletin should be consulted for information regarding individual courses, advanced placement, courses that fulfill distribution requirements, and so on. 

Due to its interdisciplinary nature, the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology major requires more than the usual number of courses.  It is therefore necessary for students intending to complete the major to plan their program of study carefully.  It is strongly recommended that any student considering this major should seek advice from one of the contributing faculty as early as possible.  Students with adequate preparation should begin by taking both the introductory biology and chemistry sequences during the first year. This is accomplished by enrolling in two courses from Biology 120 – 129 and Chem 131 and 132 (or Chem 141, depending on results of the Chemistry Placement Exam).  

Course descriptions, requirements for the Major: refer to the College Bulletin: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.   

Opportunities for off-campus study

In addition to off-campus internships, it is possible for majors to spend a semester or year abroad. The most likely sites for this would be the Dickinson Science Program at the University of East Anglia in Norwich, England (all year or one semester) or study at the University of Queensland (one semester).  Again, very careful planning well in advance of the junior year is required. 

Additional remarks

Careers: The biochemistry and molecular biology field is one of the most active and exciting areas of science.  Opportunities abound in medicine, industry, and academics for those with strong credentials in this area.  The major includes all of the science and mathematics courses normally required for students planning to apply to medical school or to related Ph.D. programs.  It also enables those who seek employment immediately after graduation to compete successfully for jobs in the rapidly growing biotechnology field. 

Further information

Inquiries are welcomed from students or faculty who seek additional information about the biochemistry and molecular biology program.  Please contact the program director, Prof. Dave Kushner (x1328 or e-mail kushnerd@dickinson.edu) or any of the contributing faculty.