The integrative nature of biochemistry: challenges of biochemical education in the USA

Abstract

The intricate interplay of Biochemistry with well-established disciplines often blurs the identity of the subject. The issues are many. What is biochemical education? Who should be educated? What should be taught? What should the requirements be for Biochemistry major? What is a career in Biochemistry? The curriculum, course syllabus and application of Biochemistry are ever-evolving concerns. The challenges are particularly keen in the USA due to the diversity in its teaching modes, and in the composition of the student body. The constant changes in technologies also shift the needs of skill and knowledge of the graduates. This presentation is to examine the Biochemistry degree programs in the USA, particularly the curricula of private and public research universities, contrasting them with those of the liberal arts colleges. The goal is to sense the trends of changes, probing how the challenges are met, and to solicit and formulate recommendations as we approach a new millennium.