NOTE: See the UMBC Undergraduate Catalog (PDF) for a full listing of the requirements for this program.

The Bachelor's of Science (B.S.) in Biochemistry and Molecular (under the auspices of the Biological Sciences and the Chemistry and Biochemistry departments) offers students a unique interdisciplinary curriculum and exposure to a wide range of faculty members. With a curriculum drawing from both disciplines as well as specific biochemistry courses, the program provides a broad background in the physical and life sciences. It is suitable for students planning careers in laboratory research or further training in graduate, medical, or other biomedical professional programs, such as medicine, dentistry, and medical technology.

Curriculum change effective Fall 2010
As a consequence of changes to the Biological Sciences major, certain courses required under the Biochemistry & Molecular Biology program are being phased out. These changes required modification of the Biochemistry & Molecular Biology program. Students who enroll at UMBC on or after Fall 2010 will be expected to follow the new Biochemistry & Molecular Biology program curriculum. Continuing students may complete their degree under the old Biochemistry & Molecular Biology program curriculum but should realize that certain BIOL courses (BIOL 100, BIOL 100L and BIOL 303L) will be phased out between Fall 2010 and Fall 2011. Students should consult the web site describing the changing BIOL curriculum for more information

Academic Advising
The directorship of this joint program alternates between the two participating departments and current information may be found in the schedule of classes in "Undergraduate Advising Procedures." After filing a declaration of major form, students should contact the office listed. They will then be assigned an advisor from among the participating faculty of the two departments.

Honors in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
While the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology program does not have an honors program, specific honors sections of BIOL 100H: Concepts of Biology and CHEM 101H and CHEM 102H: Introductory Chemistry courses are offered. In addition, departmental honors are awarded by the Chemistry and Biochemistry department to biochemistry and molecular biology graduates achieving scholastic excellence in their Chemistry and Biochemistry courses which is defined as a GPA of 3.50 or better in 18 or more credit hours of chemistry and biochemistry classes, combined with an overall GPA of 3.0.

Eligible students may also apply for the Honors Program.