Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics seek to understand the molecular events of life processes. It applies chemical and physical techniques to elucidate the structure and organization of molecules, particularly macromolecules that are responsible for the structural organization as well as operation and control of all cellular processes. The emerging knowledge has broad importance and consequences for all areas of the life sciences.

The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics offers work leading to bachelor of arts and bachelor of science degrees with majors in biochemistry, including areas of emphasis in medical biochemistry and molecular biophysics. The BA degree provides a liberal education with sufficient emphasis on science for students who wish to prepare for certain professional schools. The BS degree prepares students for professional careers in biochemistry or entry into graduate biochemistry training programs.

To graduate, a student must have a grade of C or better in all science and mathematics courses required for the degree, including transfer courses, as specified below. In addition, to graduate a student must have a 2.2 GPA in required science and mathematics courses taken at K-State.

Transfer students

Community college students who plan to transfer into either of the biochemistry curricula at the junior level should take the following science courses during their first two years of college:

• A year of freshman chemistry—lecture and laboratory
• A semester of analytical chemistry—lecture and laboratory
• A year of organic chemistry—lecture and laboratory
• A year of analytic geometry and calculus
• A year of biology—lecture and laboratory

Completion of these science courses should allow students to go directly into biochemistry and advanced biology courses upon entry into a biochemistry curriculum.

Concurrent BS/MS program

A combined BS/MS program provides exceptional undergraduates an opportunity to obtain both a bachelor of science and a master of science in biochemistry in five years.

For details of application procedures and the program of study toward the MS degree, see the graduate catalog. Admission and retention in the program requires a 3.0 GPA. Students may apply after they have accumulated 45–90 hours towards the BS degree.