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Physical and Mathematical Sciences:
Chemistry and Biochemistry >
Program:
Biochemistry
PhD

Biochemistry

Application Deadline

  • Fall: Jan 13
  • Contact Information

    C-100 BNSN, Provo, UT 84602-5700
    (801) 422-9794
    chemgradsec@chem.byu.edu
    Website
    Admission Requirements
    Required Tests

    None

    Additional Requirements
    • Baccalaureate degree or equivalent preparation in biochemistry
    • Resume
    • Application fee exemption deadline: December 20, 2024
    Program Requirements
    The biochemistry PhD degree prepares independent scientists to perform and to supervise creative research in biochemistry and molecular biology. The PhD degree requires some course work, but the emphasis is primarily on original, creative research leading to a dissertation and to quality publications in scientific journals. The PhD biochemist is prepared for a wide range of career opportunities that involve independent thinking and supervisory responsibilities in industry, government, or academia.

    Requirements for Degree.
    • Credit hours (54): 36 hours of course work and research plus 18 dissertation hours (Chem 699R). (With departmental approval, some credit from an MS degree may be applied toward this requirement.)
    • Required courses: Chem 692R and 594R (multiple semesters), 601, 694 and other courses as required by the area of emphasis and as specified by committee.
    • Semi-annual progress review, examinations, publication/s and presentations.
    • Oral comprehensive qualifying proposal.
    • Dissertation.
    • Final oral examination consisting of two parts: (A) public presentation of original research described in the dissertation; (B) comprehensive examination on course work, research and dissertation.
    Program Outcomes
    Productive and Ethical Contributors
    Graduates of this program will demonstrate the necessary skills to become productive, ethical, and independent scientists. They will be prepared to further their educations through postdoctoral training, enter industry, and/or begin an academic career. This broad outcome is further elaborated in outcomes stated below.

    Critical Evaluation of Current Research
    Program graduates will understand and critically evaluate current research in biochemistry. Coursework that builds upon the students' undergraduate education will provide the initial steps to achieve this outcome. Continued critical reading of current literature is essential for reaching this outcome.

    Proficiency in Laboratory Techniques
    Program graduates will demonstrate proficiency in laboratory techniques necessary to contribute to knowledge in biochemistry.

    Effective Writing, Communication, and Presentation
    Program graduates will learn to effectively write scientific manuscripts describing their research and to make oral presentations of their research at scientific meetings.

    Research Skills
    Program graduates will demonstrate the ability to identify new research opportunities, plan effective strategies for pursuing these opportunities, and conduct research that contributes in a meaningful way to current knowledge in biochemistry or related areas.

    Program Stats
    Characteristics of Students from Past Academic Year
    Total Students 51.0
    International 20.0
    Male 30.0
    Female 21.0
    LDS 40.0
    BYU Undergraduate 7.0
    Five Year Average of Graduated Students
    Average Years to Degree 1.89
    Graduated Per Year 18.2
    GMAT Quantitative Percentile 67.5
    Five Year Average of Admitted Students
    Applied Per Year 14.0
    Admitted Per Year 9.2
    Percent Admitted 65.71
    Average GPA 3.57