Academic Programs

Overview

Biochemistry is undergoing resurgence as detailed mechanistic understanding of biological processes becomes increasingly necessary in academia, industry, and medicine. Current biochemistry-related courses range from biophysical studies of protein structure and conformation to theoretical simulations of protein and nucleic acid. Structural transitions to studies in the regulation of biochemical pathways in cultured cells and animals and the biochemical basis of human diseases. On account of the rising demand for individuals with extensive biochemical training, the Department of Chemistry at UMT has launched a graduate program in Biochemistry. The program is open to students who want to update their theoretical preparation or to test their disposition toward academic training. The atmosphere among students and faculty is one of open informality fostered by a pleasant working environment and state-of-the-art research facilities. Core concepts and skills are taught through a sequence of core courses, along with the advanced electives carefully chosen in view of the fundamental applications of Biochemistry. The courses are designed for the students so that they learn the advanced methods in biochemistry, laboratory and literature-based research, and develop the concepts and skills to apply their expertise in professional life.

Aim of the Program

The master’s degree in Biochemistry provides strong research training for students who are interested in a research career in academia, medicine, or industry, in related careers in which first-hand research experience is an asset, or as a prelude to more advanced degrees.. 

Upon completion of the program students will be equipped with:

• Conceptual knowledge and in-depth understanding of biochemical systems in environmental and public health contexts.
• Skills necessary to collect, interpret, and critically analyze chemical data from laboratory experiments and the scientific literature.
• Efficiency in oral and written presentation of scientific concepts.
• Understanding of the biochemical molecules and pathways that control cellular metabolism and that underlie human diseases.
• Technical know-how in using systems thinking to solve biochemical problems in public and environment.
• Enhanced capability and competitiveness in the development of a career related to biochemical systems, particularly.

Career Prospects

Graduates of this program will have developed the necessary skills to become productive and ethical contributors to scientific research. They will be prepared to further their educations through additional graduate training, enter industry, and/or begin an academic career. Students with the Biochemistry degree are well-suited for positions in academic, government, hospital, pharmacy, industrial laboratories, dental schools or a variety of other professional programs. They can also obtain positions in fields that are not directly involved with research, such as various administrative positions in the pharmaceutical industry and teaching. Students are not only prepared for careers in industry and teaching, as well as for post-graduate and professional programs at other institutions. This degree program is designed to prepare students for a variety of positions, such as a research scientist in a government, industrial or academic lab; a teacher, patent lawyer, physician, forensic scientist, pharmacist, hazardous materials manager, science writer, technical sales expert, to name a few.

Admission Criteria

Students with any of following degrees are eligible for admission in MS Biochemistry.

• BS/MSc in any of following subject (or equivalent subject):
  • Biochemistry
  • Chemistry (with course work in biochemistry/molecular Biology/ botany/zoology)
• MBBS
• BDS
• DPharm (Doctor in Pharmacy)

To qualify for a MS degree the student must have at least 30 credits of graduate work. There are three options to achieve this target.

1. 4 core courses (12 credits), 4 elective courses (12 credits) from Biochemistry that are listed and MS thesis (6 credits) earning for research.
2. 4 core courses (12 credits) and 6 elective courses (18 credits) from Biochemistry that are listed.
3. 4 core courses (12 credits), 4 elective courses (12 credits) from Biochemistry that are listed and 2 elective courses (6 credits) from other departments in UMT.