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Biochemistry

Biochemistry is the study of how chemical processes foster life...the chemistry of the living world. As a biochemistry major you will use laboratory techniques and research to study exciting frontiers of science that impact almost every aspect of our lives. You will learn also how to think critically, independently and creatively - skills that will enhance your education and your future career!

Why Grand View?

Guaranteed research experience, beginning as early as your first year
Experienced faculty researchers to learn from
Strong collaboration with other science programs
Personal advising to help you achieve your research and career goals

Degree Level:

Undergraduate Programs

Program Type:

Major, Minor

Format:

Full Time, In-Person

Program Catalog Visit Apply Contact

Student Testimonials

Dr. Bonnie Hall

“Dr. Hall helped me get back to Grand view.” - Blaze Kahikina

“I have been struggling with multiple health issues throughout this semester. Dr. Hall has gone above and beyond to make accommodations for me and to look out for me academically, physically, and emotionally. She is constantly pushing students to get the very best out of their education and creates inspiration in the daunting field of biochemistry. Because of Dr. Hall I have a greater love for biochemistry and for research. She has introduced me to multiple wonderful opportunities to help me grow and become a better scientist. Dr. Hall is a true inspiration to me and I can't describe in words how appreciative I am for all of her help and support. Thank you for being such an amazing mentor!” - Alli Rupert

“Dr. Hall helped me with my academic processes, like my class scheduling, change of major when I needed to, critical advising about biochemistry, and many more.” - Abubakar Barau

“She encouraged me and gave me confidence to get things done when I didn't think I could do it. She understood me, but also didn't let me take the easy way out.” - Grant Weldon

“She talked me through it when I felt lost in what major I wanted to pursue. She was honest and supportive of what I wanted to pursue and helped me feel at peace with my decision. She also helped by writing a recommendation for a scholarship. I really appreciate everything she has done for me and she really deserves to be recognized for it!” - Alexa Pinos

Dr. Grant Knotts

“Before taking Dr. Knotts physics courses, I couldn’t even do basic algebra. His encouragement led me to be successful in a class I thought that I would surely fail. As a new professor to Grand View, I think that he has created a classroom environment that any student can thrive in.” - Robin Fenton

Dr. Corbin Zea

“Dr. Zea is always willing to help with more than just classes and is very easy to get along with and talk to. He gets to know students on a personal level rather than just as another student.” - Tyler Henze

“Dr. Zea is my advisor but has also been my professor for multiple classes. He always makes time for me even outside of his office hours. He is also one of the most enthusiastic professors I know.” - Sunnie Baumgartner

“Dr. Zea brings a whole other level of enthusiasm to his classes that you don't see from other professors. This makes classes more enjoyable and easier to learn.” - Elma Omanovic

Degree Combinations

Biology (Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science)
Biotechnology
Chemistry Minor

Program Details

Course Requirements

Requirements for the Major:

BIOL 101	General Biology I	4 credits
BIOL 360	Genetics	4 credits
BIOL 380	Cell Biology	4 credits
BIOL 415	Molecular Biology	4 credits
CHEM 111	General Chemistry I	4 credits
CHEM 112	General Chemistry II	4 credits
CHEM 321	Organic Chemistry I	5 credits
CHEM 322	Organic Chemistry II	5 credits
CHEM 341	Quantitative Analysis	4 credits
CHEM 351	Biochemistry	3 credits
CHEM 450	Senior Seminar	2 credits
CHEM 452	Advanced Biochemistry	3 credits
CHEM 453	Biochemical Techniques	3 credits
CHEM 499	Research in Chemistry	3 credits
MATH 212 or MATH 231 or STAT 241 or STAT 261	Applied Calculus or Calculus with Analytic Geometry I or Principles of Statistics or Applied Statistics	3 or 5 or 4 or 3 credits
PHYS 131 & 132 or PHYS 241 & 242	General Physics I and II or Classical Physics I and II	8 or 10 credits

Choose ONE of the following:

BIOL 325	Plant Physiology	4 credits
BIOL 335	Physiology	4 credits
CHEM 361	Physical Chemistry	4 credits
CHEM 399	Internship	3 credits
CHEM 430	Special Topics	3-4 credits

These courses will be counted in computing the 2.20 GPA for the major.

Chemistry Minor

The chemistry minor provides a solid background in chemistry for students choosing to pursue other major fields and careers in the health sciences. Having a degree will look great to a potential employer, however, when it comes to your education, the more accolades you accumulate, the more appealing it will become. A minor will boost your regular degree over other candidates and demonstrate that you are willing to go above and beyond. More importantly, it shows potential employers that, when it comes to learning, you are eager to learn as much as you can and are willing to put in the extra effort.

Course Requirements

Prerequisite Course:

MATH 121

College Algebra

3 credits

Required Courses:

CHEM 111	General Chemistry I	4 credits
CHEM 112	General Chemistry II	4 credits
CHEM 321	Organic Chemistry I	4 credits

Take seven or more credits from:

CHEM 322	Organic Chemistry II	5 credits
CHEM 341	Quantitative Analysis	4 credits
CHEM 351	Biochemistry	3 credits
CHEM 361	Physical Chemistry	4 credits
CHEM 430	Special Topics	3-4 credits
CHEM 452	Advanced Biochemistry	3 credits
CHEM 453	Biochemical Techniques	3 credits

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Tuition & Scholarships

At Grand View University, your tuition supports instruction delivered by knowledgeable and experienced faculty who uphold our tradition of exceptional teaching. Additionally, we are dedicated to offering a high-quality education at the most affordable cost.

Transfer Credits

No matter what major you’re thinking about, you may be able to transfer in as many as 75 credits from a community college or junior college. If you have an A.A. or A.A.S. from an Iowa community college, you will be automatically admitted at junior status.

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AWARDS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS

ALUMNI

Anani Perez • She is a researcher at Fred Hutch Cancer research institute.

FACULTY

Laura Salazar • She received the Distinguished Faculty Service Award in 2018.

Bonnie Hall • She received the Excellence in Teaching award in 2017.

Corbin Zea • He received the Excellence in Teaching award in 2016.

OTHERS

Instrumentation grant was awarded for $354,000 in April 2015.

Grow Iowa Value Fund grant for diabetes research was awarded for $50,000 in July 2011.

RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES

Unlike other schools, Grand View focuses on the importance of undergraduate research. As a biochemistry major, you’ll conduct and participate in research projects that have real world applications. Aside from enabling you to develop laboratory techniques and critical thinking skills that will provide a foundation for graduate school or a scientific career, this experience will engage you in answering some of nature’s questions that remain unanswered.

Plus, you’ll have experienced Grand View professors equipped with diverse backgrounds readily available to help you reach your goals. This process sets you apart from students from other colleges and universities and makes you very employable, as well as prepared for professional or graduate school.

SCIENCE IS FUN!

The opportunities to share your love of science outside the classroom are limitless. Be a judge at a local school science fair, attend and present at science conferences, get involved in club activities and community service.