Pre-Med Program
If medical school is in your future plans, you’ve come to the right place. Not only does George Fox have the track record to give you confidence in our ability to prepare you for the rigors of med school, you will be joining a community where you will be known by name, research opportunities abound, and where faith is integrated in learning.
Our Track Record
Case in point regarding our track record: George Fox pre-med students who maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher have a better than 95% acceptance rate into medical school. The university also maintains an 80% acceptance rate overall – considerably higher than the national average of 50%.
You will find our graduates at medical schools throughout the country, including the University of Southern California, Michigan State University, Vanderbilt University, Oregon Health & Science University, Washington University Medical School, the University of Kansas, and several others.
Our Community
As for our community, our 14-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio assures you that you will receive personalized attention. And with the career and academic coaching you will receive through our IDEA Center, you have advocates who will help plot your course and find the medical school that’s right for you!
You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with your peers by joining the local chapter of the American Medical Student Association, a student-governed national organization committed to connecting pre-med students with resources that will help prepare them for medical school. You may also work as a teaching assistant or gain internship experience both on and off campus.
Research Opportunities
Our biology and chemistry professors actively conduct research in onsite and offsite research laboratories, providing our undergraduate majors the opportunity to participate and present the results. And a handful of our graduates have gone on to cancer research labs at OHSU – recent grads Quinlan Morrow and Brittany Smith among them.
On campus, students in our biology major have gained valuable research experience alongside professor John Schmitt, whose breast cancer research project, “Vitamin D Regulation in Breast Cancer Cells,” has received more than $75,000 in grant funding from the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust.
Our Faith
Beyond preparing you academically, our professors will take a vested interest in you as a person – willing to listen as you discuss your hopes and dreams for your career, as well as your growth both personally and spiritually. They also teach science from a Christ-centered perspective, recognizing God as Creator, so you won’t be attending a school where science and Christianity are at odds.
What Will I Study?
We offer all of the courses necessary to satisfy the required competencies of most medical schools. It’s important to consult with your academic advisor early to set up a plan for a strong program. Medical school admission requirements will vary considerably between different schools, so research into specific prerequisites at medical schools of interest should be reviewed as early as possible.
Here are some other important things to be aware of:
- Medical school admissions are shifting more toward a liberal arts education and a revised integrated science and mathematics curriculum. Emphasis is transitioning from a prescription of courses (prerequisites) to student demonstration of defined competencies.
- Regardless of your major, you must demonstrate both knowledge and ability in the disciplines of mathematics and statistics, physics, chemistry, biochemistry, and biology.
- In addition to biological sciences, the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) also will assess your knowledge in social and behavioral sciences.
- In addition to meeting the minimal entrance requirements into medical school, good grades (3.5 GPA or above) and a strong performance on the national admissions test (MCAT, usually taken in the spring of your junior year) are essential.
With medical school admissions committees seeking individuals with a diversified undergraduate portfolio, George Fox is an ideal choice for your pre-med education, as we offer courses in ethics, literature, the arts, humanities and anthropology to complement your science curriculum. Students who want to pursue a career in medicine most commonly select a major in biology or biochemistry.
Bachelors (BS) in Biology Requirements
×Biology Core Requirements (18 hours)
Biology Core (18 hours)
Complete the following:
An introduction to life science for those majoring in biology and bioscience-related fields. Topics include basic concepts in chemistry and biological molecules, an introduction to cellular structure, function and metabolism, genetics and theories of inheritance, and an introduction to prokaryotic cells and viruses. Three lectures and one two-hour laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required.
An introduction to life science for those majoring in biology and bioscience-related fields. Topics include a taxonomic survey of protists, fungi, plants, and animals with emphasis on the development, anatomy, and physiology of plants and animals. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required.
An introduction to the origin and maintenance of biodiversity for students majoring in Biology. This project-based course will provide foundational exposure to the process of scientific discovery, twenty-first century science practices, and the fields of ecology and evolutionary biology. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems or permission of the instructor. Additional course fee is required.
A general genetics course covering Mendelian genetics, population genetics, and an introduction to molecular biology. This course fulfills the requirement for biology majors, and is appropriate for those with an interest in current topics in genetics, including inheritable diseases, cloning, and other recent scientific breakthroughs. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems or instructor permission.
Discussion- and experience-based course covering scientific analysis, communication, and research. Prerequisite: Junior status or permission of the instructor
Biology Upper-Division Electives (16 hours)
Complete at least one course from each of the following groups.
Organization
Courses listed in two groups may meet requirements for both groups. (For example, if BIOL 390 is taken to meet the Diversity requirement then it may also fulfill the Processes requirement as well.)
Choose one of the following:
Theories and study of differentiation as they apply to growth and development of animals, with some emphasis on the mechanism involved. Includes historical topics, fertilization, embryonic organization, cell induction, histogenesis, organogenesis, and developmental morphogenesis of echinoderms, frogs, chicks, and pigs. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems or instructor permission.
The comparative study of the structure and functional morphology of organisms in the phylum Chordata. Laboratory will emphasize dissection of representative vertebrate animals. Three one-hour lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems or instructor permission.
An introductory course that provides a basic understanding in the multidisciplinary field of Neuroscience. Major topics covered in this course include neural signaling, neurophysiology, sensation and sensory processing, physical and functional neuroanatomy, movement and its central control, nervous system organization, brain development, complex brain functions and diseases of the nervous system. The course will examine different model organisms that have advanced the field of neuroscience. Three lectures and one laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems or instructor permission.
A course for biology majors in the structure, metabolism, classification and health aspects of microorganisms. Special emphasis will be given to microbial diversity, the molecular physiology and genetics of prokaryotes, and the human immune response to infection. Methods of microbiological investigation are emphasized and include current techniques and experiences within the field of Microbiology. Additional course fee required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems or instructor permission.
An introduction to the modern field of molecular biology. We will examine the structure, organization, and transfer of genetic information at the molecular level and its requirement for life processes. Viral, prokaryotic, and eukaryotic systems will be examined. Major themes include transcriptional regulation, post-transcriptional events (RNA processing), and regulation of translation. The laboratory is designed to include current techniques and experiences within the field of molecular biology. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems or instructor permission.
This course includes the study of cell physiology, energetics, neurobiology, muscle biology, and cell signaling. Other topics that will be discussed are cancer and immunology at the cellular level. Laboratory will focus on current cell culturing and analysis techniques. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems or instructor permission.
A majors-level course intended to meet the anatomy requirement of graduate/professional programs in health-care fields. A course presenting a systemic approach to the study of the human body. Lecture presentations begin with an introduction of anatomical terminology, tissue classification, and developmental origins to systems. Body structure will be studied by organ systems and will include histology. Laboratory work will follow a regional gross anatomy of the human body through cadaver dissection, human skeletal collections and preserved specimens. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems or instructor permission.
Diversity
Choose one of the following:
A study of mechanisms associated with the process of evolution (e.g. natural selection, genetic drift, mutation, etc.) and their underlying assumptions. Topics covered include phylogenetic history, the genetic theory of phenotypic evolution, species and speciation, evolution of genes and genomes, etc. Special attention will be given to how the principles of evolution interface with Christian beliefs. Three hours lecture and one laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems and BIOL 311 Ecology & Biodiversity or instructor permission.
The comparative study of the structure and functional morphology of organisms in the phylum Chordata. Laboratory will emphasize dissection of representative vertebrate animals. Three one-hour lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems or instructor permission.
An analysis of population, community, and ecosystem dynamics. Laboratory will emphasize field measurements, computer modeling, and behavior. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week, and one required field trip to the Malheur Field Station. Additional course fee required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems and BIOL 311 Ecology & Biodiversity or instructor permission.
A course for biology majors in the structure, metabolism, classification and health aspects of microorganisms. Special emphasis will be given to microbial diversity, the molecular physiology and genetics of prokaryotes, and the human immune response to infection. Methods of microbiological investigation are emphasized and include current techniques and experiences within the field of Microbiology. Additional course fee required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems or instructor permission.
A study of avian biology including phylogeny, evolution, anatomy, physiology, behavior, and ecology. Laboratory will emphasize identification, bird banding, and basic anatomy. Two lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week, and one required field trip to the Malheur Field Station. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems or instructor permission.
This course integrates the disciplines of plant diversity, plant physiology, plant systematics and plant ecology by surveying the structure and function of plants from the organismal to the ecosystem levels. Students will receive a comprehensive survey of concepts in plant biology with an emphasis on mechanisms of development and growth, ecophysiology, identification and classification, and current global issues that are rooted in plant biology. Two lectures and one laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems and BIOL 311 Ecology & Biodiversity or instructor's permission.
Comparative phylogeny, morphology, ecology, and life histories of several invertebrate groups and protozoa. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Some weekend field trips required. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems or instructor permission.
Processes
Choose one of the following:
Theories and study of differentiation as they apply to growth and development of animals, with some emphasis on the mechanism involved. Includes historical topics, fertilization, embryonic organization, cell induction, histogenesis, organogenesis, and developmental morphogenesis of echinoderms, frogs, chicks, and pigs. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems or instructor permission.
Investigation of physiological principles in animals, with 4 hours. A majors-level course is intended to meet the physiology requirement of graduate/professional programs in health-care fields. Investigation of physiological principles in humans/mammals, with emphasis on mechanisms of integration and homeostasis at cellular, organ, and system levels. Topics include muscular, neural, vascular, excretory, and endocrine interactions. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems and BIOL 311 Ecology & Biodiversity or instructor permission.
An introductory course that provides a basic understanding in the multidisciplinary field of Neuroscience. Major topics covered in this course include neural signaling, neurophysiology, sensation and sensory processing, physical and functional neuroanatomy, movement and its central control, nervous system organization, brain development, complex brain functions and diseases of the nervous system. The course will examine different model organisms that have advanced the field of neuroscience. Three lectures and one laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems or instructor permission.
An analysis of population, community, and ecosystem dynamics. Laboratory will emphasize field measurements, computer modeling, and behavior. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week, and one required field trip to the Malheur Field Station. Additional course fee required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems and BIOL 311 Ecology & Biodiversity or instructor permission.
This course integrates the disciplines of plant diversity, plant physiology, plant systematics and plant ecology by surveying the structure and function of plants from the organismal to the ecosystem levels. Students will receive a comprehensive survey of concepts in plant biology with an emphasis on mechanisms of development and growth, ecophysiology, identification and classification, and current global issues that are rooted in plant biology. Two lectures and one laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems and BIOL 311 Ecology & Biodiversity or instructor's permission.
Physical Sciences (16 hours)
Physical Sciences
Choose four of the following:
This course covers fundamental chemical principles, reactions, and mode theories. Special emphasis is given to the role of chemistry in everyday life. Three lectures and one laboratory period per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisite: Successful completion of MATH 190 Precalculus Mathematics (or equivalent).
This course covers fundamental chemical principles, reactions, and mode theories. Special emphasis is given to the role of chemistry in everyday life. Three lectures and one laboratory period per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisite: CHEM 211 General Chemistry I.
A study of principles, structure, bonding, reactions, and energy as related to carbon chemistry. The laboratory stresses materials, equipment, and skills in synthesis, purification, and identification of representative groups of organic compounds. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: CHEM 211 General Chemistry I and CHEM 212 General Chemistry II.
A study of principles, structure, bonding, reactions, and energy as related to carbon chemistry. The laboratory stresses materials, equipment, and skills in synthesis, purification, and identification of representative groups of organic compounds. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: CHEM 331 Organic Chemistry I.
Mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, wave motion and optics, and modern physics, using algebraic methods for analysis. Three lectures and one lab per week. Additional course fee is required.
Prerequisite: MATH 190 Precalculus Mathematics.
Mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, wave motion and optics, and modern physics, using algebraic methods for analysis. Three lectures and one lab per week. Additional course fee is required.
Prerequisite: PHYS 201 General Physics I.
Mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, wave motion and optics, and modern physics, using calculus methods for analysis. Three lectures and one lab per week. Additional course fee is required.
Prerequisite: MATH 201 Calculus I.
Mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, wave motion and optics, and modern physics, using calculus methods for analysis. Three lectures and one lab per week. Additional course fee is required.
Prerequisite: PHYS 211 General Physics with Calculus I.
Quantitative Skills (6-8 hours)
Quantitative Skills
Complete the following:
An introduction to probability and statistics with content and application directed toward the natural and physical sciences. Topics to be covered include methods of describing data, probability, random variables and their distributions, estimation, hypothesis testing, linearregression, and correlation. Prerequisite: MATH 180 College Algebra or equivalent.
Choose one of the following:
A foundational course for the study of computer science and information systems. The course covers an overview of programming methodology and gives the student an ability to write computer programs using standard style and structure. Programming projects are completed in one or more high-level languages. Prerequisite: high school algebra or equivalent. Additional course fee required.
The class is a study of limits limits of functions, applications of derivatives, and an introduction to integration.
Prerequisite: MATH 190 Precalculus Mathematics or equivalent.
Optional Thesis
Thesis Option
Students can petition the department thesis committee by the end of the fall semester of their junior year for permission to do original research as part of their degree requirement. Students allowed to pursue the thesis option must:
- Complete an acceptable research proposal and the Research Methods course (BIOL 384) by the end of the spring semester of the junior year.
- Take up to 4 hours of Biological Research (BIOL 465) between the spring semester of their junior year and graduation, and Senior Thesis (BIOL 496) during the spring semester of their senior year.
- Complete a written thesis acceptable to the thesis committee by April 1 of their senior year.
- Prepare a poster and give an oral presentation of their research prior to graduation.
The department considers this an honor to be noted on the student's transcript. The thesis is designed to enhance a student's preparation for graduate or professional school.
Bachelors (BS) in Biochemistry Requirements
×Chemistry Requirements (24 hours)
Complete the following:
This course covers fundamental chemical principles, reactions, and mode theories. Special emphasis is given to the role of chemistry in everyday life. Three lectures and one laboratory period per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisite: Successful completion of MATH 190 Precalculus Mathematics (or equivalent).
This course covers fundamental chemical principles, reactions, and mode theories. Special emphasis is given to the role of chemistry in everyday life. Three lectures and one laboratory period per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisite: CHEM 211 General Chemistry I.
This course covers the principles and techniques of quantitative analysis in biochemical and chemical systems. The subject matter includes: the use of statistical methods of data analysis; the primary methodologies for conducting quantitative experiments; and the use of modern instrumentation for quantitation of chemical and biochemical compounds. The laboratory component focuses on the development of specific skills used in the laboratory and the use of spectroscopic, electrochemical, and chromatographic methods for quantitative analysis. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: CHEM 211 General Chemistry I and CHEM 212 General Chemistry II.
A study of principles, structure, bonding, reactions, and energy as related to carbon chemistry. The laboratory stresses materials, equipment, and skills in synthesis, purification, and identification of representative groups of organic compounds. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: CHEM 211 General Chemistry I and CHEM 212 General Chemistry II.
A systematic and theoretical study of the biochemical activities of living cells. Topics to be covered will include: the structure, properties, and molecular interactions of biomolecules, metabolic pathways, bioenergetics, and metabolism of biomolecules, and RNA, DNA, and protein synthesis. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: CHEM 331 Organic Chemistry I.
A systematic and theoretical study of the biochemical activities of living cells. Topics to be covered will include: the structure, properties, and molecular interactions of biomolecules, metabolic pathways, bioenergetics, and metabolism of biomolecules, and RNA, DNA, and protein synthesis. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: CHEM 341 Biochemistry I.
Biology Requirements (12 hours)
Complete the following:
An introduction to life science for those majoring in biology and bioscience-related fields. Topics include basic concepts in chemistry and biological molecules, an introduction to cellular structure, function and metabolism, genetics and theories of inheritance, and an introduction to prokaryotic cells and viruses. Three lectures and one two-hour laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required.
An introduction to life science for those majoring in biology and bioscience-related fields. Topics include a taxonomic survey of protists, fungi, plants, and animals with emphasis on the development, anatomy, and physiology of plants and animals. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required.
A general genetics course covering Mendelian genetics, population genetics, and an introduction to molecular biology. This course fulfills the requirement for biology majors, and is appropriate for those with an interest in current topics in genetics, including inheritable diseases, cloning, and other recent scientific breakthroughs. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems or instructor permission.
Mathematics Requirements (7-8 hours)
Complete the following:
The class is a study of limits limits of functions, applications of derivatives, and an introduction to integration.
Prerequisite: MATH 190 Precalculus Mathematics or equivalent.
Choose one of the following:
A foundational course for the study of computer science and information systems. The course covers an overview of programming methodology and gives the student an ability to write computer programs using standard style and structure. Programming projects are completed in one or more high-level languages. Prerequisite: high school algebra or equivalent. Additional course fee required.
A study of differential and integral calculus for functions of one variable. Additional topics include polar coordinates, infinite series, and parametric equations. Prerequisite: MATH 201 Calculus I.
An introduction to probability and statistics with content and application directed toward the natural and physical sciences. Topics to be covered include methods of describing data, probability, random variables and their distributions, estimation, hypothesis testing, linearregression, and correlation. Prerequisite: MATH 180 College Algebra or equivalent.
Physics Requirements (8 hours)
Choose one of the following sequences:
Mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, wave motion and optics, and modern physics, using algebraic methods for analysis. Three lectures and one lab per week. Additional course fee is required.
Prerequisite: MATH 190 Precalculus Mathematics.
Mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, wave motion and optics, and modern physics, using algebraic methods for analysis. Three lectures and one lab per week. Additional course fee is required.
Prerequisite: PHYS 201 General Physics I.
OR
Mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, wave motion and optics, and modern physics, using calculus methods for analysis. Three lectures and one lab per week. Additional course fee is required.
Prerequisite: MATH 201 Calculus I.
Mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, wave motion and optics, and modern physics, using calculus methods for analysis. Three lectures and one lab per week. Additional course fee is required.
Prerequisite: PHYS 211 General Physics with Calculus I.
Chemistry and Biology Electives (12 hours)
Choose three of the following:
At least one biology course and one chemistry course.
An introduction to the origin and maintenance of biodiversity for students majoring in Biology. This project-based course will provide foundational exposure to the process of scientific discovery, twenty-first century science practices, and the fields of ecology and evolutionary biology. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems or permission of the instructor. Additional course fee is required.
Investigation of physiological principles in animals, with 4 hours. A majors-level course is intended to meet the physiology requirement of graduate/professional programs in health-care fields. Investigation of physiological principles in humans/mammals, with emphasis on mechanisms of integration and homeostasis at cellular, organ, and system levels. Topics include muscular, neural, vascular, excretory, and endocrine interactions. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems and BIOL 311 Ecology & Biodiversity or instructor permission.
A course for biology majors in the structure, metabolism, classification and health aspects of microorganisms. Special emphasis will be given to microbial diversity, the molecular physiology and genetics of prokaryotes, and the human immune response to infection. Methods of microbiological investigation are emphasized and include current techniques and experiences within the field of Microbiology. Additional course fee required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems or instructor permission.
This course integrates the disciplines of plant diversity, plant physiology, plant systematics and plant ecology by surveying the structure and function of plants from the organismal to the ecosystem levels. Students will receive a comprehensive survey of concepts in plant biology with an emphasis on mechanisms of development and growth, ecophysiology, identification and classification, and current global issues that are rooted in plant biology. Two lectures and one laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems and BIOL 311 Ecology & Biodiversity or instructor's permission.
An introduction to the modern field of molecular biology. We will examine the structure, organization, and transfer of genetic information at the molecular level and its requirement for life processes. Viral, prokaryotic, and eukaryotic systems will be examined. Major themes include transcriptional regulation, post-transcriptional events (RNA processing), and regulation of translation. The laboratory is designed to include current techniques and experiences within the field of molecular biology. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems or instructor permission.
This course includes the study of cell physiology, energetics, neurobiology, muscle biology, and cell signaling. Other topics that will be discussed are cancer and immunology at the cellular level. Laboratory will focus on current cell culturing and analysis techniques. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems or instructor permission.
A majors-level course intended to meet the anatomy requirement of graduate/professional programs in health-care fields. A course presenting a systemic approach to the study of the human body. Lecture presentations begin with an introduction of anatomical terminology, tissue classification, and developmental origins to systems. Body structure will be studied by organ systems and will include histology. Laboratory work will follow a regional gross anatomy of the human body through cadaver dissection, human skeletal collections and preserved specimens. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 211 Cellular Biology & Genetics and BIOL 212 Organisms & Physiological Systems or instructor permission.
A study of principles, structure, bonding, reactions, and energy as related to carbon chemistry. The laboratory stresses materials, equipment, and skills in synthesis, purification, and identification of representative groups of organic compounds. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: CHEM 331 Organic Chemistry I.
These courses offer a rotating list of advanced topics relevant to student interests for example: Environmental Chemistry & Nanotoxicology and Nutrition and Food Chemistry. Designed to help students in the Department of Biological and Molecular Science become acquainted with latest ideas on advanced topics in biochemistry. Emphasis on analysis of key concepts in the field with reference to classical papers and recent literature. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: CHEM 211 General Chemistry I, CHEM 212 General Chemistry II, and CHEM 331 Organic Chemistry I.
This course focuses on the intersection of energy and biochemical and biological systems from the electron to the molecule to the ensemble. An overview of quantum mechanics, kinetics, thermodynamics, and statistical mechanics is presented, with an emphasis on real-world biochemical and biological applications. Topics such as assembly of cell membranes, binding of growth factors to cells, ligand-gated ion channels, thermodynamic models of transcription, connection of macroscopic thermodynamic properties to microscopic molecular properties using statistical mechanics, chemical potentials, equilibrium states, binding cooperativity, behavior of macromolecules in solution and at interfaces, and solvation. Additional course fee is required. Prerequisites: CHEM 211 General Chemistry I, CHEM 212 General Chemistry II, and CHEM 331 Organic Chemistry I.
Thesis Option
Philosophy: The opportunity to pursue a chemistry thesis is an honor. Consequently, the thesis option will be noted on a student's transcript. The thesis is designed to enhance a student's preparation for graduate or professional school. The heart of the thesis is original research conducted under the guidance of a chemistry faculty member.
Eligibility: The thesis option may be pursued by any chemistry major in good academic standing. Students wishing to pursue a thesis must:
- Consult with their research advisor about an acceptable research project.
- In writing, notify the chemistry thesis committee (composed of the chemistry department faculty) of their intention to conduct research. The thesis committee must receive notification by the end of the fall semester of the student's junior year.
After the beginning of the spring semester of a student's junior year, students must petition the department thesis committee for permission to pursue thesis research. Students who pursue the thesis option must:
- Enroll in at least 1 hour of Chemical Research (CHEM 465) each semester, beginning the spring semester of their junior year, through the spring semester of their senior year.
- Submit the first copy of a written thesis to the thesis committee by April 1 of their senior year. The final, edited copy is due to the thesis committee the last day of classes during the spring semester.
- Prepare a poster and give an oral presentation of their research.
In some cases, students may apply research conducted off campus to the CHEM 465 requirement. Students who participate in off-campus research programs may petition the thesis committee for special consideration of the thesis option. The thesis committee must receive the petition by the beginning of the fall semester of the student's senior year. The thesis committee may elect to substitute the off-campus experience for a portion of the CHEM 465 requirement.
Trina (Christiansen) Davis
George Fox, MD, Boston University School of Medicine
I was closely mentored by several faculty members who saw my potential and directly encouraged me to pursue graduate school. They coached me step-by-step through the process of deciding what program and what school would be the best fit. Many of my med school classmates had learned material in big lecture halls and were more equipped for passive receiving of information, rather than taking initiative and being willing to try new ways of thinking or doing.