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The Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (BMB) program at UMass Amherst offers a rigorous and exciting major that's designed for motivated undergraduates looking for a program with lots of opportunities for faculty contact and hands-on research. Our courses guide you through the biological, chemical, and physical principles that make life as we know it possible.

Summary

Foundational Courses

Bio 151, Bio 152, Bio 153

  • Must achieve a grade of C or above

Chem 111 and 112 (Chem 121H and 122H for Honors)  

Math 127/131, Math 128/132  

Core Courses

Biochem 285 (Cellular & Molecular Biology)

  • Prerequisites: Bio 152 AND Chem 112/122H

Chem 261, Chem 262, Chem 269 (Lab)

Stats 240 or equivalent, Math 233 can be substituted

Physics 131/151 and Physics 132/152

Biochem 311 (Genetics)

  • Prerequisites: Bio 151 AND Bio 152

Upper-Level Courses

Biochem 376 (Intro Lab)  

  • Prerequisite: Biochem 285

Biochem 394RI (Integrative Experience)

  • Prerequisite: Biochem 285

Biochem 423 (General Biochemistry)

  • Prerequisites: Biochem 285 AND Chem 261 AND Chem 262

Biochem 424 (Molecular Cell Biology)

  • Prerequisite: Biochem 423

Biochem 426 (Advanced Lab)

  • Prerequisites: Biochem 376 AND Biochem 423

Biochem 471 (Physical Chemistry)  

  • Prerequisites: Chem 112/122H AND Physics 132/152/182 AND Math 128/132

Biochem 430H (Science Writing)

  • Prerequisite: Biochem 423

Advanced Elective Requirements: minimum total of 8 CREDITS

  • Not including courses required for the BMB major or Practicum courses
  • Independent Study/Research (396 and above) credits may be counted as advanced elective credits