Bachelor of Science in Applied Biochemistry
Program Overview
Applied Biochemistry focuses on knowledge and techniques in biochemistry that can be applied to solve challenges relating to improving health and nutrition, forensics, increasing agricultural and manufacturing productivity and sustaining the environment.
The program focuses on three main areas: Industrial Biochemistry which focuses on application of biological molecules for medical, industrial, environmental, agricultural for analytical purposes; Medical Biochemistry which equips students with knowledge, skills, attitude and understanding of the fundamental importance of biochemistry, with particular reference to the ways in which this relates to health issues, molecular basis of disease, biochemical basis of drug based therapy and an understanding in development of new medical treatments, and Forensic Biochemistry which equips students with knowledge and skills of how to obtain evidence from biological materials for use in law enforcement, criminal justice, homeland security and related fields.
The program is thus aligned to the University’s philosophy as articulated in the mission outcomes of higher order thinking; literacy; global understanding and multicultural perspective; preparedness for career; community service; and leadership and ethics.
The goal of the program is to develop a critical mass of graduates with biochemical knowledge, the state-of-the-art skills, and professional attitude that can match the needs of industries, health care facilities, learning and research institutions.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the Bachelor of Science in Applied Biochemistry program, students will be able to:
- Analyze the cellular processes that govern life;
- Use integrated knowledge in biological chemistry to solve biochemical problems;
- Conduct biomedical research and communicate scientific information using set standards for reporting and citation;
- Apply biochemical knowledge and techniques in criminal justice, agriculture, manufacturing and business processes;
- Design innovative biochemical products and services using ethically-sound practices.
Admission Requirements
To obtain admission into the program, an applicant must satisfy one of the following requirements:
- Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) or its equivalent with mean grade C+ and attained the minimum grade of C+ in the cluster subjects;
Option A - Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics/Physics, English
Option B - Biological Sciences /Chemistry Physical Sciences /Mathematics, English
- Kenya Advanced Certificate of Education (KACE) with two principal passes in Biology or Chemistry and Mathematics and a subsidiary. or
- Holders of BSc. General from accredited institutions shall undertake selected courses of the program subject to the allowable credit transfer. They must also have taken Chemistry and Biological Science courses.
Career Options
Graduates will venture into careers in research institutions, medical laboratory technicians, food and beverages and quality assurance industries, academia, pharmaceutical companies, nutritional counseling, forensic laboratory technicians and self-employment in a biochemical/ biotechnological entrepreneurship.
