Introduction
Biochemistry occupies a central place in life sciences and research, focusing on understanding the chemical processes occurred in the living organism. The Department pursues the research aims through up-to-date equipment and state-of-the-art technologies, the recruitment of high-caliber staff, maintenance of industrial contacts, and the fostering of close links and collaborations with international scientific community. The Department’s research is grouped under the headings of several broad programs including Clinical Biochemistry, Enzymology, Nutritional and Metabolic Biochemistry, Plant Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Molecular Biology of Human Diseases, Proteomics, Genomics and Cell Biology. The Department has modern research facilities.
BS Biochemistry
VISION
To provide an atmosphere for students to acquire skills in identifying the link between biological and human resources and how to transform them to enhance the quality of life
To be recognized as a center of excellence by providing high-quality contributions in the field of biochemistry education, scientific research and public service
MISSION
- To provide undergraduate students new tools and knowledge that will advance understanding of the living world and enhance the quality of life through better medical care, disease prevention measures, nutrition, and environmentally sound and sustainable agricultural and manufacturing processes.
- To enable students to critically evaluate and interpret the biochemical basis of biological processes
- To introduce students to basic and modern laboratory techniques
- To inculcate in students a culture of cutting-edge research in the field of biochemistry
Objectives
- To provide students the scientific skills and chemical knowledge essential for success
- To train students in proper laboratory and safety techniques
- To equip students with effective scientific communication skills
- To encourage the pursuit of lifelong learning
- To foster a commitment to ethical and social responsibilities
Course Outline
Semester I
- English I
- Mathematics I
- Pakistan Studies
- Social Science
- Organic Chemistry
- Introductory Biochemistry
Semester II
- English II
- Islamic Studies / Ethics
- Inorganic Chemistry
- Mathematics II / Biostatistics
- Microbiology
- Carbohydrates & Lipids
Semester III
- English III
- Introduction to Computers
- Physical Chemistry
- Genetics
- Proteins & Nucleic Acids
- Cell Biology
Semester IV
- English IV / Communication Skills
- Marketing & Management
- Analytical Chemistry
- Human Physiology
- Enzymology
- Biosafety & Bioethics
Semester V
- Metabolism I
- Molecular Biology
- Nutritional Biochemistry
- Immunology
- Plant Biochemistry
- Environmental Biochemistry
Semester VI
- Metabolism II
- Biochemical Techniques
- Biotechnology
- Bioinformatics
- Bioenergetics
- Industrial Biochemistry
Semester VII
- Research Planning & Scientific Writing
- Bio-membranes & Cell Signaling
- Clinical Biochemistry
- Elective I
- Elective II
Semester VIII
- Current Trends in Biochemistry
- Methods in Molecular Biology
- Elective III
- Elective IV
- Research Project / Internship
*Note: Course outline may be updated as per department requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Minimum 45% marks HSC Pre-Medical (OR O/ A level – Foreign High School equivalent)
- Equivalence as determined by the Interboard Committee of Chairmen (IBCC) is required for all non-Pakistan Boards of Education (www.ibcc.edu.pk)
- Qualify Aptitude Test & Interview
- Candidates residing outside of Pakistan may submit SAT/ACT results in substitution of Aptitude Test
Duration
BS Biochemistry: 4 Years (8 Semesters – 136 credit hours)
Career Prospects
Employment opportunities for graduates are:
- Healthcare organizations
- Academic and Scientific organizations
- Research facilities
- Food and Agriculture sector
- Clinical diagnostic laboratories
- Molecular diagnostic laboratories
- Pharmaceutical Companies
- Biotechnology Firms
- Communications fields where a qualified, knowledgeable person is required to communicate scientific ideas
- Pursue postgraduate studies (MS/M.Phil. or PhD degree) within the country and abroad
WHY CHOOSE THIS PROGRAM:
- Biochemistry is indispensable to understanding how life works in a fundamental way
- It will enable students to achieve significant research experience that will be invaluable for a career in research
- A wide range of teaching and learning methods are used
- Students will be part of the advancement of discovery in fields of production of safe and effective drugs, nutrition, genetic engineering, molecular biology
- State-of-the-art research facilities
- Campus is centrally located in Karachi
- Students enjoy a vibrant college life and get to interact with a wide range of students in other programs
Programming Learning Outcomes (PLOs)
Graduates of the BS Biochemistry program will:
- Demonstrate an understanding of fundamental biochemical principles, including the structure/function of biomolecules, metabolic pathways, and regulation of biological/biochemical processes
- Demonstrate proficiency in basic laboratory techniques
- Apply the scientific method to processes of experimentation and hypothesis testing
- Apply and effectively communicate scientific reasoning and data analysis in both written and oral forums
- Understand and practice scientific research ethics
