Old Main
College of Arts & Sciences

Biochemistry

Why pursue a biochemistry degree at North Central College?

Biochemists’ have a variety of job opportunities across industries. Many students go on to graduate school to become teachers and researchers, while others enter positions in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and chemical industries.

At North Central, you will have the opportunity to participate in original research with faculty members. A biochemistry degree offers a rigorous academic path and a scientifically rewarding future.

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN

  • Understanding the molecular basis of life
  • Analyzing molecules using microscopes, lasers and other laboratory instruments
  • Researching biological processes such as cell development and DNA

then a degree in BIOCHEMISTRY might be for you.

Why study biochemistry at North Central College?

In the Classroom

Coursework topics:

  • Analytical chemistry
  • Biochemistry
  • Biology
  • Calculus
  • Cellular/genetics
  • Introductory chemistry
  • Molecular biology
  • Organic chemistry
  • Physical chemistry
  • Physics
  • Statistics

Beyond the Classroom

As a biochemistry major, you can:

  • Study current biomedical research and research ethics.
  • Apply for our funded summer research program.
  • Work with a dedicated pre-health advisor and the Pre-Health Organization student group.
  • Join the Beta Beta Beta biological honor society or the Student Members of the American Chemical Society.
  • Minor in neuroscience or environmental studies.
  • Participate in our annual research symposium.
  • Apply to graduate school, medical school or professional school.

The biochemistry program is an interdisciplinary program between the chemistry and biology departments. 

Chemistry Department information

Biology Department information

Biochemistry, B.A.

Biochemists study the molecules of life: proteins, nucleic acids, lipids and carbohydrates. A B.A. degree in biochemistry prepares a student for employment in a private or government research laboratory; medical, dental, veterinary or law school; a position in a biotechnology or other scientific firm; or graduate study and research in both basic and applied sciences.  The B.A. degree requires fewer advanced science courses than the B.S., allowing students room to gain more breadth by pairing their biochemistry studies with a minor or emphasis outside the sciences. 

For additional information and courses in this program, see Chemistry and Physics.

  • BCHM 365 - Principles of Biochemistry

    BCHM 365 - Principles of Biochemistry

    4.00 credit hours

    Survey of the major classes of biological molecules. Protein structure and purification, enzyme kinetics and the major metabolic pathways are discussed. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • BCHM 400 - Capstone Studies in Biological Sciences

    BCHM 400 - Capstone Studies in Biological Sciences

    2.00 credit hours

    (Same as BIOL 400.) Students completing their majors with this capstone experience will be prepared to take their next step, whether to graduate or professional school or directly to a life-science career. The classroom component engages students in discussion of the practice of science; authorship, funding, gender and race issues, intellectual property, human and animal trials, etc. The laboratory component immerses students in experiential learning as they design and complete a research project guided by a faculty mentor. Students should select a laboratory section with a topic that best matches their area of interest.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • BCHM 465 - Advances in Biomedical Research

    BCHM 465 - Advances in Biomedical Research

    2.00 credit hours

    Current topics in biochemistry are studied, allowing students to synthesize previous biology, chemistry and general education coursework. Ethical considerations in scientific research and recent primary literature are discussed. Research course.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • BIOL 195 - Investigating Biology

    BIOL 195 - Investigating Biology

    4.00 credit hours

    Students and faculty work as a team to conduct an authentic course-based undergraduate research project in an area of current importance. Course content is selected to support the research project and introduces students to concepts, techniques and skills of modern biology. Class activities move fluidly among lecture, laboratory, fieldwork, discussion and problem-solving modes. Gateway to the major.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • BIOL 210 - Cells and Systems

    BIOL 210 - Cells and Systems

    4.00 credit hours

    Structure and function of cells and applications to physiological systems of plants and animals. Topics include cell membranes, enzymes, energy metabolism, cell movement and cell communication and their roles in nerve and muscle function, photosynthesis, vascular transport, digestion, excretion and other systems. Laboratory required, includes investigative projects in protein and enzyme function, metabolism and signal transduction.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • BIOL 230 - Genes and Genomics

    BIOL 230 - Genes and Genomics

    4.00 credit hours

    Genetic analysis and applications of genetics to the understanding of cellular processes. Investigation of classical Mendelian genetics and modern molecular genetics, including mechanisms of inheritance, DNA structure and function, genotyping and genomic analysis, mutation, epigenetics and gene regulation. Laboratory required, includes investigative projects in Drosophila genetics, gene cloning and human genotyping.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • BIOL 360 - Molecular Biology of Cancer

    BIOL 360 - Molecular Biology of Cancer

    4.00 credit hours

    In-depth investigation of current concepts and topics in molecular biology, using cancer as a theme. Major topics include: regulation of gene expression, control of cell division and death and drug development. Reading of the primary literature and understanding current experimental methods are emphasized. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 121 - General Chemistry I

    CHEM 121 - General Chemistry I

    4.00 credit hours

    A discussion of chemical principles through examples from the chemistry of carbon compounds and the molecules found in living systems. Major topics include atomic and electronic structure, ions, molecules, Lewis structures, VSEPR, hybridization, intermolecular forces, chromatography, equilibria, kinetics, stereochemistry and polymer chemistry. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 122 - General Chemistry II

    CHEM 122 - General Chemistry II

    4.00 credit hours

    An introduction to chemical principles within the context of the environmental issues of fuel and energy, water treatment and acid rain. Major chemical topics include gas laws, aqueous reactions and solubility, equilibria, acid/base chemistry, buffers, thermochemistry, redox, electrochemistry and nuclear chemistry. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 251 - Organic Chemistry I

    CHEM 251 - Organic Chemistry I

    4.00 credit hours

    Survey of the various classes of carbon compounds, with emphasis upon molecular structure, stereochemistry and mechanisms of Organic reactions. Techniques for isolating, purifying and characterizing organic compounds are learned in the laboratory. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 252 - Organic Chemistry II

    CHEM 252 - Organic Chemistry II

    4.00 credit hours

    Continuation of CHEM 251. This course builds on previously learned concepts to further explore the mechanisms of organic reactions. The emphasis shifts from physical organic to synthetic organic chemistry. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 310 - Chemical Analysis

    CHEM 310 - Chemical Analysis

    4.00 credit hours

    Discussion of analytical methods including sample collection and preparation, statistical analysis of data and quantitative analysis including theory and techniques for gravimetric, volumetric, spectrophotometric, chromatographic and electrochemical methods. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 151 - Calculus I

    MATH 151 - Calculus I

    4.00 credit hours

    An exploration of the fundamental concepts of single-variable calculus including limits, continuity, differentiation and integration with applications.

    Schedule Of Classes

Physical Chemistry

One of the following:

  • CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    4.00 credit hours

    Chemical thermodynamics and chemical kinetics, including properties of gases, the First and Second Laws of thermodynamics and their application to physical and chemical systems, phase and chemical equilibria, rates and mechanisms of reactions, reaction dynamics. Laboratory required. Students with credit in PHYS 340 and PHYS 341 may not take CHEM 340 for credit.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    4.00 credit hours

    Quantum theory, electronic structure of atoms and molecules, chemical bonding, computational chemistry, spectroscopic methods used to study molecular structure and reactions, statistical thermodynamics. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

Physical Chemistry

One of the following:

  • CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    4.00 credit hours

    Chemical thermodynamics and chemical kinetics, including properties of gases, the First and Second Laws of thermodynamics and their application to physical and chemical systems, phase and chemical equilibria, rates and mechanisms of reactions, reaction dynamics. Laboratory required. Students with credit in PHYS 340 and PHYS 341 may not take CHEM 340 for credit.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    4.00 credit hours

    Quantum theory, electronic structure of atoms and molecules, chemical bonding, computational chemistry, spectroscopic methods used to study molecular structure and reactions, statistical thermodynamics. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

Physical Chemistry

One of the following:

  • CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    4.00 credit hours

    Chemical thermodynamics and chemical kinetics, including properties of gases, the First and Second Laws of thermodynamics and their application to physical and chemical systems, phase and chemical equilibria, rates and mechanisms of reactions, reaction dynamics. Laboratory required. Students with credit in PHYS 340 and PHYS 341 may not take CHEM 340 for credit.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    4.00 credit hours

    Quantum theory, electronic structure of atoms and molecules, chemical bonding, computational chemistry, spectroscopic methods used to study molecular structure and reactions, statistical thermodynamics. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

Physical Chemistry

One of the following:

  • CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    4.00 credit hours

    Chemical thermodynamics and chemical kinetics, including properties of gases, the First and Second Laws of thermodynamics and their application to physical and chemical systems, phase and chemical equilibria, rates and mechanisms of reactions, reaction dynamics. Laboratory required. Students with credit in PHYS 340 and PHYS 341 may not take CHEM 340 for credit.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    4.00 credit hours

    Quantum theory, electronic structure of atoms and molecules, chemical bonding, computational chemistry, spectroscopic methods used to study molecular structure and reactions, statistical thermodynamics. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

Physical Chemistry

One of the following:

  • CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    4.00 credit hours

    Chemical thermodynamics and chemical kinetics, including properties of gases, the First and Second Laws of thermodynamics and their application to physical and chemical systems, phase and chemical equilibria, rates and mechanisms of reactions, reaction dynamics. Laboratory required. Students with credit in PHYS 340 and PHYS 341 may not take CHEM 340 for credit.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    4.00 credit hours

    Quantum theory, electronic structure of atoms and molecules, chemical bonding, computational chemistry, spectroscopic methods used to study molecular structure and reactions, statistical thermodynamics. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

Physical Chemistry

One of the following:

  • CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    4.00 credit hours

    Chemical thermodynamics and chemical kinetics, including properties of gases, the First and Second Laws of thermodynamics and their application to physical and chemical systems, phase and chemical equilibria, rates and mechanisms of reactions, reaction dynamics. Laboratory required. Students with credit in PHYS 340 and PHYS 341 may not take CHEM 340 for credit.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    4.00 credit hours

    Quantum theory, electronic structure of atoms and molecules, chemical bonding, computational chemistry, spectroscopic methods used to study molecular structure and reactions, statistical thermodynamics. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

Physical Chemistry

One of the following:

  • CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    4.00 credit hours

    Chemical thermodynamics and chemical kinetics, including properties of gases, the First and Second Laws of thermodynamics and their application to physical and chemical systems, phase and chemical equilibria, rates and mechanisms of reactions, reaction dynamics. Laboratory required. Students with credit in PHYS 340 and PHYS 341 may not take CHEM 340 for credit.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    4.00 credit hours

    Quantum theory, electronic structure of atoms and molecules, chemical bonding, computational chemistry, spectroscopic methods used to study molecular structure and reactions, statistical thermodynamics. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

Students must demonstrate elementary competence in a foreign language. For more information, see the B.A. Degree Requirements within the Academic Regulations section of this catalog.

Biochemistry, B.S.

Biochemists study the molecules of life: proteins, nucleic acids, lipids and carbohydrates. A B.A. degree in biochemistry prepares a student for employment in a private or government research laboratory; medical, dental, veterinary or law school; a position in a biotechnology or other scientific firm; or graduate study and research in both basic and applied sciences.  The B.S. degree requires additional advanced electives, allowing students to gain more depth in their science studies where they work to master the theoretical and applied aspects of biochemistry.

For additional information and courses in this program, see Chemistry and Physics.

Twelve credit hours from the following:

  • BIOL 242 - Bioinformatics

    BIOL 242 - Bioinformatics

    1.00 credit hours

    Bioinformatics, the use of computerized tools to analyze genetic data and other complex data, is used throughout modern biology and its applications. Key bioinformatic tools and algorithms are introduced in this course, which focuses on application of bioinformatic methods to solve biological problems.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • BIOL 315 - Animal Physiology

    BIOL 315 - Animal Physiology

    4.00 credit hours

    Basic functional mechanisms of higher animals. Laboratory investigations including relatively long-term experimentation. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • BIOL 320 - Plant Growth and Function

    BIOL 320 - Plant Growth and Function

    4.00 credit hours

    Introduces students to basic concepts about plant physiology, such as plant morphology, photosynthesis, water relations, and growth from the seed to reproductive adults. Laboratory work includes field observations and laboratory experiments. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • BIOL 330 - Evolution

    BIOL 330 - Evolution

    4.00 credit hours

    Investigation of the history of evolutionary thought and the processes by which populations change over time. Laboratory work includes experimental selection, phylogenetics and computer simulations of populations genetics plus discussions of current readings. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • BIOL 340 - Infectious Disease

    BIOL 340 - Infectious Disease

    4.00 credit hours

    Biology of pathogenic microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses and fungi, and the mechanisms by which they cause disease, with extensive use of the primary scientific literature. Epidemiological modeling of disease spread and the role of public-health intervention will be important topics, as will the immune response to disease. Laboratory required: independent project dealing with the spread and prevention of infection.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • BIOL 370 - Mechanisms of Development

    BIOL 370 - Mechanisms of Development

    4.00 credit hours

    Exploration into the fundamental cellular and molecular mechanisms that guide cellular differentiation, morphogenesis, and growth of multicellular organisms. Topics include fertilization, gastrulation, organogenesis, regeneration, stem cells and environmental influences on development. Laboratory emphasizes techniques used to manipulate and examine developmental processes in several key model systems. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 311 - Separation Methods

    CHEM 311 - Separation Methods

    2.00 credit hours

    Theory and practice of instrumental analytical chemistry related to separation methods including HPLC, GC, ion chromatography and capillary electrophoresis and related sampling handling and data analysis. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 312 - Spectrometry and Spectroscopy

    CHEM 312 - Spectrometry and Spectroscopy

    2.00 credit hours

    Theory and practice of instrumental analytical chemistry related to atomic and molecular spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 313 - Materials and Surface Analysis

    CHEM 313 - Materials and Surface Analysis

    2.00 credit hours

    Theory and practice of instrumental analytical chemistry related to materials and surface characterization. Major topics include electrochemical analysis, microscopy techniques, and solid-state analysis.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 315 - Spectral Interpretation

    CHEM 315 - Spectral Interpretation

    2.00 credit hours

    This course explores the spectroscopic methods and the identification of organic structures by interpretation of the spectra. Specific topics include 1D Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (1H & 13C), 2D Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (COSY, TOCSY, HSQC, NOESY, etc.), Infrared and Mass-Spectroscopy. This course emphasizes individual and collaborative problem-solving techniques that can be utilized to identify organic structures by the combination of the techniques described above.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    4.00 credit hours

    Chemical thermodynamics and chemical kinetics, including properties of gases, the First and Second Laws of thermodynamics and their application to physical and chemical systems, phase and chemical equilibria, rates and mechanisms of reactions, reaction dynamics. Laboratory required. Students with credit in PHYS 340 and PHYS 341 may not take CHEM 340 for credit.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    4.00 credit hours

    Quantum theory, electronic structure of atoms and molecules, chemical bonding, computational chemistry, spectroscopic methods used to study molecular structure and reactions, statistical thermodynamics. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 401 - Advanced Inorganic Chemistry

    CHEM 401 - Advanced Inorganic Chemistry

    4.00 credit hours

    Coordination chemistry of the transition metals including isomerism, symmetry, group theory, molecular orbital theory, crystal field theory, UV-visible spectroscopy and kinetics and mechanisms of ligand substitution reactions. Study of macromolecular, supramolecular and nanoscale chemistry.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 451 - Advanced Organic Chemistry

    CHEM 451 - Advanced Organic Chemistry

    4.00 credit hours

    This course explores advanced topics in organic chemistry which build on the principles covered in CHEM 251 and CHEM 252 . The course explores one topic in depth such as physical organic chemistry, synthesis or catalysis.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 455 - Organometallic Chemistry

    CHEM 455 - Organometallic Chemistry

    4.00 credit hours

    This course explores the structure and bonding in organometallic compounds, ligands, fundamental organometallic reactions and catalysis within the context of the chemical and pharmaceutical industry.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • BCHM 365 - Principles of Biochemistry

    BCHM 365 - Principles of Biochemistry

    4.00 credit hours

    Survey of the major classes of biological molecules. Protein structure and purification, enzyme kinetics and the major metabolic pathways are discussed. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • BCHM 400 - Capstone Studies in Biological Sciences

    BCHM 400 - Capstone Studies in Biological Sciences

    2.00 credit hours

    (Same as BIOL 400.) Students completing their majors with this capstone experience will be prepared to take their next step, whether to graduate or professional school or directly to a life-science career. The classroom component engages students in discussion of the practice of science; authorship, funding, gender and race issues, intellectual property, human and animal trials, etc. The laboratory component immerses students in experiential learning as they design and complete a research project guided by a faculty mentor. Students should select a laboratory section with a topic that best matches their area of interest.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • BCHM 465 - Advances in Biomedical Research

    BCHM 465 - Advances in Biomedical Research

    2.00 credit hours

    Current topics in biochemistry are studied, allowing students to synthesize previous biology, chemistry and general education coursework. Ethical considerations in scientific research and recent primary literature are discussed. Research course.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • BIOL 195 - Investigating Biology

    BIOL 195 - Investigating Biology

    4.00 credit hours

    Students and faculty work as a team to conduct an authentic course-based undergraduate research project in an area of current importance. Course content is selected to support the research project and introduces students to concepts, techniques and skills of modern biology. Class activities move fluidly among lecture, laboratory, fieldwork, discussion and problem-solving modes. Gateway to the major.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • BIOL 210 - Cells and Systems

    BIOL 210 - Cells and Systems

    4.00 credit hours

    Structure and function of cells and applications to physiological systems of plants and animals. Topics include cell membranes, enzymes, energy metabolism, cell movement and cell communication and their roles in nerve and muscle function, photosynthesis, vascular transport, digestion, excretion and other systems. Laboratory required, includes investigative projects in protein and enzyme function, metabolism and signal transduction.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • BIOL 230 - Genes and Genomics

    BIOL 230 - Genes and Genomics

    4.00 credit hours

    Genetic analysis and applications of genetics to the understanding of cellular processes. Investigation of classical Mendelian genetics and modern molecular genetics, including mechanisms of inheritance, DNA structure and function, genotyping and genomic analysis, mutation, epigenetics and gene regulation. Laboratory required, includes investigative projects in Drosophila genetics, gene cloning and human genotyping.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • BIOL 360 - Molecular Biology of Cancer

    BIOL 360 - Molecular Biology of Cancer

    4.00 credit hours

    In-depth investigation of current concepts and topics in molecular biology, using cancer as a theme. Major topics include: regulation of gene expression, control of cell division and death and drug development. Reading of the primary literature and understanding current experimental methods are emphasized. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 121 - General Chemistry I

    CHEM 121 - General Chemistry I

    4.00 credit hours

    A discussion of chemical principles through examples from the chemistry of carbon compounds and the molecules found in living systems. Major topics include atomic and electronic structure, ions, molecules, Lewis structures, VSEPR, hybridization, intermolecular forces, chromatography, equilibria, kinetics, stereochemistry and polymer chemistry. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 122 - General Chemistry II

    CHEM 122 - General Chemistry II

    4.00 credit hours

    An introduction to chemical principles within the context of the environmental issues of fuel and energy, water treatment and acid rain. Major chemical topics include gas laws, aqueous reactions and solubility, equilibria, acid/base chemistry, buffers, thermochemistry, redox, electrochemistry and nuclear chemistry. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 251 - Organic Chemistry I

    CHEM 251 - Organic Chemistry I

    4.00 credit hours

    Survey of the various classes of carbon compounds, with emphasis upon molecular structure, stereochemistry and mechanisms of Organic reactions. Techniques for isolating, purifying and characterizing organic compounds are learned in the laboratory. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 252 - Organic Chemistry II

    CHEM 252 - Organic Chemistry II

    4.00 credit hours

    Continuation of CHEM 251. This course builds on previously learned concepts to further explore the mechanisms of organic reactions. The emphasis shifts from physical organic to synthetic organic chemistry. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 310 - Chemical Analysis

    CHEM 310 - Chemical Analysis

    4.00 credit hours

    Discussion of analytical methods including sample collection and preparation, statistical analysis of data and quantitative analysis including theory and techniques for gravimetric, volumetric, spectrophotometric, chromatographic and electrochemical methods. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 151 - Calculus I

    MATH 151 - Calculus I

    4.00 credit hours

    An exploration of the fundamental concepts of single-variable calculus including limits, continuity, differentiation and integration with applications.

    Schedule Of Classes

Physical Chemistry

One of the following:

  • CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    4.00 credit hours

    Chemical thermodynamics and chemical kinetics, including properties of gases, the First and Second Laws of thermodynamics and their application to physical and chemical systems, phase and chemical equilibria, rates and mechanisms of reactions, reaction dynamics. Laboratory required. Students with credit in PHYS 340 and PHYS 341 may not take CHEM 340 for credit.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    4.00 credit hours

    Quantum theory, electronic structure of atoms and molecules, chemical bonding, computational chemistry, spectroscopic methods used to study molecular structure and reactions, statistical thermodynamics. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

Physical Chemistry

One of the following:

  • CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    4.00 credit hours

    Chemical thermodynamics and chemical kinetics, including properties of gases, the First and Second Laws of thermodynamics and their application to physical and chemical systems, phase and chemical equilibria, rates and mechanisms of reactions, reaction dynamics. Laboratory required. Students with credit in PHYS 340 and PHYS 341 may not take CHEM 340 for credit.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    4.00 credit hours

    Quantum theory, electronic structure of atoms and molecules, chemical bonding, computational chemistry, spectroscopic methods used to study molecular structure and reactions, statistical thermodynamics. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

Physical Chemistry

One of the following:

  • CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    4.00 credit hours

    Chemical thermodynamics and chemical kinetics, including properties of gases, the First and Second Laws of thermodynamics and their application to physical and chemical systems, phase and chemical equilibria, rates and mechanisms of reactions, reaction dynamics. Laboratory required. Students with credit in PHYS 340 and PHYS 341 may not take CHEM 340 for credit.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    4.00 credit hours

    Quantum theory, electronic structure of atoms and molecules, chemical bonding, computational chemistry, spectroscopic methods used to study molecular structure and reactions, statistical thermodynamics. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

Physical Chemistry

One of the following:

  • CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    4.00 credit hours

    Chemical thermodynamics and chemical kinetics, including properties of gases, the First and Second Laws of thermodynamics and their application to physical and chemical systems, phase and chemical equilibria, rates and mechanisms of reactions, reaction dynamics. Laboratory required. Students with credit in PHYS 340 and PHYS 341 may not take CHEM 340 for credit.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    4.00 credit hours

    Quantum theory, electronic structure of atoms and molecules, chemical bonding, computational chemistry, spectroscopic methods used to study molecular structure and reactions, statistical thermodynamics. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

Physical Chemistry

One of the following:

  • CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    4.00 credit hours

    Chemical thermodynamics and chemical kinetics, including properties of gases, the First and Second Laws of thermodynamics and their application to physical and chemical systems, phase and chemical equilibria, rates and mechanisms of reactions, reaction dynamics. Laboratory required. Students with credit in PHYS 340 and PHYS 341 may not take CHEM 340 for credit.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    4.00 credit hours

    Quantum theory, electronic structure of atoms and molecules, chemical bonding, computational chemistry, spectroscopic methods used to study molecular structure and reactions, statistical thermodynamics. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

Physical Chemistry

One of the following:

  • CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    4.00 credit hours

    Chemical thermodynamics and chemical kinetics, including properties of gases, the First and Second Laws of thermodynamics and their application to physical and chemical systems, phase and chemical equilibria, rates and mechanisms of reactions, reaction dynamics. Laboratory required. Students with credit in PHYS 340 and PHYS 341 may not take CHEM 340 for credit.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    4.00 credit hours

    Quantum theory, electronic structure of atoms and molecules, chemical bonding, computational chemistry, spectroscopic methods used to study molecular structure and reactions, statistical thermodynamics. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

Physical Chemistry

One of the following:

  • CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    CHEM 340 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics

    4.00 credit hours

    Chemical thermodynamics and chemical kinetics, including properties of gases, the First and Second Laws of thermodynamics and their application to physical and chemical systems, phase and chemical equilibria, rates and mechanisms of reactions, reaction dynamics. Laboratory required. Students with credit in PHYS 340 and PHYS 341 may not take CHEM 340 for credit.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    CHEM 345 - Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy

    4.00 credit hours

    Quantum theory, electronic structure of atoms and molecules, chemical bonding, computational chemistry, spectroscopic methods used to study molecular structure and reactions, statistical thermodynamics. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

Biochemistry Internships and Jobs

A North Central education integrates career preparation with rich academic study. Our faculty encourages you to refine and apply your knowledge in an interconnected world. Here you'll learn to think independently and work globally to solve problems and lead.

Graduate and Professional Schools

Recent graduates in biochemistry have been accepted at:

  • University of Notre Dame (global health)
  • University of Illinois (molecular biology)
  • Medical College of Wisconsin (molecular biology)
  • University of North Carolina (microbiology)
  • University of Wisconsin-Madison (microbiology)
  • Iowa State University (organic chemistry)
  • University of Colorado-Denver School of Medicine (pharmacology)
  • DePaul University Law School
  • Southern University of Georgia (certified anesthesia assistant)

Medical and Professional Schools

Recent graduates in biochemistry have been accepted at:

  • University of Illinois College of Medicine
  • Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine
  • Southern Illinois University School of Medicine
  • Rush University Medical School
  • Michigan State University Medical School
  • University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine
  • Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine
  • University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine
  • Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine
  • University of Illinois at Chicago College of Pharmacy
  • Purdue College of Pharmacy
  • Governors State University, Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

Careers

Recent graduates in biochemistry are employed by:

  • Sentient Flavor & Fragrance
  • CGH Medical Center
  • Loyola University Medical Center
  • Northwestern Memorial Hospital
  • Abbott Laboratories
  • Morton Grove Pharmaceuticals
  • Pierce Chemical Co.
  • Sigma-Aldrich Chemical Co.
  • Boston Scientific

Invest in your future

Choosing the right college is a big decision. Don’t make it alone. North Central’s admission and financial aid team is here to help you design a financial aid solution that works best for you and your family.

Merit scholarships, grants, loans, campus employment - these are just some of the resources available to you. Over 95 percent of students and 100 percent of all eligible students receive aid. Let our team partner with you in finding the best value for your education.

Learn more about financial aid and costs for North Central College

Apply to North Central College

The first step to becoming a North Central student is reading the application instructions specific to you. Find out everything you need to know about applying by selecting the group you belong to below.