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Graduate Program Core Curriculum

Graduate Program Core Curriculum

Typical first-year schedule

A Ph.D. in biochemistry and biophysics requires a total of 108 total credit hours, 27 of which must be academic courses (non-research, non-seminar).

Fall

  • BB581 Biophysics 1 (3)
  • BB590 Biochemistry 1 (3)
  • BB607 Seminar - 1 credit
  • BB601 Lab rotation research (4-9)
  • Elective (0-5)

Winter

  • BB582 Biophysics 2 (3)
  • BB591 Biochemistry 2 (3)
  • BB607 Seminar (1)
  • BB601 Lab rotation research (3-8)
  • Elective (0-5)

Spring

  • BB583 Biophysics 3 (3)
  • BB592 Biochemistry 3 (3)
  • BB607 Seminar (1)
  • BB601 Lab rotation research (3-8)
  • Elective (0-5)

Choose the number of lab rotation research credits so that the total number of credits equals 16.

Lab rotations

Lab rotations provide students the opportunity to experience the broad range of research topics and research environments available in our department while learning about faculty mentorship and laboratory styles. Each student completes three term-long rotations in their first nine months at OSU, usually decided on at the beginning of fall term.

Optional non-BB graduate courses

PHL | HSTS | PAX 481/581 SEMINAR Science, Politics, and Peace Literacy (4 Credits, Spring Term)

Seminar discussion and readings will use conceptual tools from philosophy and history to focus on the phenomenon of epistemic bubbles and echo chambers in relation to contentious science policy in times of heightened political polarization. We will also examine the possibilities that remain for objectivity, communication, and connection. Realizing these possibilities will require a practical dimension to the course in the form of learning and practicing Peace Literacy skills.

CH 417/517, COORDINATION AND BIOINORGANIC CHEMISTRY, (3 Credits)

Analyzes fundamental aspects of metalloenzymes in metabolism and synthesis, technical applications of hydrogenases, or metal-containing pharmaceuticals. Explores concepts of coordination chemistry in biological environments and analyzes the influence of such an environment on the reactivity of a metal center. Gains foundational tool for the development of metalloenzyme applications, material synthesis, and pharmaceutical development.