YSU introduces new bachelor of science degree in Biochemistry

In response to the continuing growth of the bioscience industry in Ohio, Youngstown State University is launching a new bachelor of science degree in Biochemistry. “This new bachelor’s program provides our students with educational options to pursue careers in one of the fastest growing sectors of the economy,” said Tim Wagner, professor and chair of the YSU Department of Chemistry. The degree was recently approved by the Ohio Department of Higher Education. Ohio is currently home to 1,300 bioscience-related organizations, half of them in Northeast Ohio. The industry generates nearly $5 billion in annual payroll and attracts more than $2 billion annually in funding from a variety of sources, according to the Ohio Bioscience Growth Report.

Mike Serra, associate professor of Chemistry, said a degree in biochemistry provides an excellent foundation for students seeking careers in bioscience-related research, health care and forensic science. “Not only will our students obtain a good foundation in the principles of biology and chemistry that are essential to understanding biochemistry, but we will also give them multiple experiences in the application of the tools necessary for conducting bioscience related research through our laboratory courses,” he said. “Students will finish their studies with a capstone course where they will conduct original research under the guidance of a professor in either the biology or chemistry departments.” Serra said the YSU Chemistry department will seek accreditation for the program from the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. For more information, call 330-941-3664.