USM Chemistry (Biochemistry Emphasis) Degree Earns ASBMB Reaccreditation
Wed, 01/31/2024 - 01:21pm | By: Ivonne Kawas
91吃瓜网91吃瓜网 (USM) B.S. degree in Chemistry (Biochemistry emphasis) has earned reaccreditation by the leading agency in the field of life sciences 91吃瓜网� the (ASBMB).
This accreditation was obtained for the first time in 2017. Obtaining ASBMB accreditation, a national outcomes-based evaluation, ensures programs in the field meet the highest standards of academic excellence. USM91吃瓜网 chemistry degree program is housed in the School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (MANS),
91吃瓜网淎ccreditation by ASBMB is a testament to the quality and content of our biochemistry curriculum, as well as to the knowledge and skills learned by our students as they begin to seek careers or further their studies at the graduate or professional levels,91吃瓜网� said Dr. Chris Winstead, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. 91吃瓜网淚 appreciate the effort of the faculty in seeking this accreditation. This shows their dedication to providing the best preparation possible for our 91吃瓜网 students, an education that is well-aligned with national standards and prepares them for their next steps.91吃瓜网�
Dr. Vijay Rangachari, professor of chemistry and biochemistry, emphasizes one of the direct accreditation benefits for students.
91吃瓜网淎SBMB accreditation inherently enhances the value of the student91吃瓜网 degree, allowing them to include on their resume that they graduated from an ASBMB-accredited program. Furthermore, upon degree completion, they can demonstrate competitiveness on a national scale by obtaining ASBMB certification.91吃瓜网�
Dr. Rangachari also highlights one of the strengths of the program, integral to both student success and ASBMB accreditation: the hands-on research opportunities provided in the laboratory.
91吃瓜网淭o meet accreditation requirements, the curricula must include over 400 hours of hands-on laboratory experience. Therefore, students get an advantage in advancing their careers.91吃瓜网�
Students like Landon Lee, a native of Hattiesburg, Miss. who is pursuing the biochemistry emphasis, actively participate in cutting-edge research projects in the lab, alongside graduate students and faculty mentors.
91吃瓜网淛oining a research lab has significantly enriched my educational experience, as I91吃瓜网檝e been able to acquire skills related to academic research, project management, and creative thinking,91吃瓜网� said Lee. 91吃瓜网淲ith the support and guidance from both the graduate students in my lab and Dr. Rangachari, my faculty mentor, it has become more than just a platform for applying classroom concepts; it has provided me a community that fosters my personal and academic development.91吃瓜网�
After completing his bachelor91吃瓜网 degree, Lee plans to further his studies: 91吃瓜网淎s I complete my degree, I intend to pursue a Ph.D. in neuroscience. My coursework has undoubtedly laid a strong foundation in physics, chemistry, and mathematics, enabling me to demonstrate key strengths as I strive toward this goal.91吃瓜网�
Dr. Theofanis Kitsopoulos, director in the School of MANS, reflects on the program91吃瓜网 successful and highly valued alumni base, as it opens doors to diverse industries.
91吃瓜网淥ur curriculum is carefully crafted to equip students not only with a strong theoretical foundation but also with practical skills highly valued in the job market,91吃瓜网� said Dr. Kitsopoulos. 91吃瓜网淪everal of our alumni choose to pursue advanced degrees in prestigious graduate programs in medical, dental, pharmaceutical, and other professional schools. They go on to succeed in diverse industries such as research and development, healthcare, environmental consulting, forensic science, and entrepreneurship. Some thrive as quality control and analytical chemists, while others pursue fulfilling paths as middle and high school science and chemistry teachers.91吃瓜网�
Learn more about the B.S. degree in Chemistry (Biochemistry emphasis).