Master of Science in Biochemistry

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences at USEK, founded in 2019, is the result of the merge of the Faculty of Letters, Philosophy and Humanities, Sciences and Music and is an academic reengineering process decided in 2017. The Faculty embraces a variety of programs supporting research, teaching, and students’ learning experience in Humanities, Social Sciences, Arts, and Natural Sciences, including Mathematics, Computing, and Nutrition.

Mission

The mission of the graduate biochemistry program is to train new scientists to probe the mechanistic basis of fundamental biochemistry processes within the context of an ever­changing knowledge base. This program gives learners a sound and broad background in biochemistry by providing training in the theoretical and practical aspects of biochemistry and its applications to familiarize themselves with biochemical methodology and to sample some of its most exciting applications in biotechnological, pharmaceutical, clinical, cosmetic, food and forensic science industries. In pursuit of this mission, the biochemistry graduate program strives to prepare students for careers ranging from teaching at postsecondary institutions to conducting research in universities (Ph.D. program), health settings, and government or private laboratories.

Common Core

• ENG510 Advanced Academic English
• FSC600 Research Methodology
• STA515 Statistical Analysis Methods
• CHE511 Techniques for Quality Control

Specialization - Emphasis: Applied Biochemistry and Biochemical Investigations

• BCH545 Applied Biochemical Techniques
• BCH529 Applied Biochemistry Laboratory
• BCH526 Applied Enzymology
• CRM613 Forensics
• BCH550 Traceology & DNA Analysis

Electives - Emphasis: Applied Biochemistry and Biochemical Investigations

• BIO511 Applied Immunology
• BCM513 Ecotoxicology
• MEDM640 Forensic and Medical Law
• CRM511 General Criminology
• BIO565 Genetic Engineering & Applied Biotechnology

Specialization - Emphasis: Pharmacology & Cosmetology

• BCM541 Cell Signaling
• BCH627 Clinical Trial-drug Legislation and Guide
• BCH513 Ecotoxicology
• BCM620 General Pharmacology and Cosmetology
• BCM622 Pharmacotherapy
• BCH610 Specialized Cosmetology
• BCM623 Specialized Pharmacology

Capstone

• BCH697A Master Thesis

Emphasis

• Applied Biochemistry and Biochemical Investigations
• Pharmacology and Cosmetology

Program Educational Objectives

1. Graduates will be able to acquire increased professional experience over the course of their graduate program so that they can be prepared for a successful industrial career through their coursework and the development of a research project.
2. Graduates will be able to apply knowledge of biochemical technology and applied biochemistry to formulate problem statements, design experiments, test hypotheses and solve problems in biochemical and biological areas.
3. Graduates will be able to recognize research design methodology and are able to use problem ¬solving techniques associated with interdisciplinary research. They will have the ability to engage in a Doctoral Program (Ph.D. program) with scholars in a variety of interdisciplinary topics related to the field.

Program Outcomes

1. Students will demonstrate a broad knowledge of the focus area.
2. Students will design and conduct experiments, and analyze and interpret experimental results.
3. Students will apply knowledge of statistical analysis, applied sciences, biotechnology fundamentals, and use the techniques, skills, and modern applied biochemistry tools.
4. Students will work as a member of multidisciplinary teams and have an understanding of team leadership. e. Students will communicate scientific results in writing, oral presentation, and publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
5. Students will recognize how the expertise will be applicable in the execution of interdisciplinary research and how the research training allows joining the doctoral program or employment.
6. Students will recognize the need for and ability to engage in life-long learning.
7. Students will appreciate the knowledge of contemporary issues.
8. Students will identify, formulate, and solve biotechnological problems.
9. Students will exhibit an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility.