Iowa State University

Iowa State University

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology

Contact Information
1210 Molecular Biology Building
Phone: 515-294-6116
FAX: 515-294-0453
biochem@iastate.edu

Additional Contacts


Outcomes Assessment

Intended learning outcomes for B.S. graduates in Biochemistry or Biophysics

1. Broad and deep understanding of the ways that life functions are explained in terms of the principles of chemistry and physics.

2. Practical and direct knowledge of the scientific method, including the ability to develop and describe hypotheses, to design experimental tests of hypotheses, and to critically analyze experimental results and the conclusions that are drawn from them.

3. The ability to perform experiments in the laboratory using a wide variety of methodologies appropriate to the disciplines of biochemistry, biophysics, and molecular biology.

4. The ability to efficiently and effectively communicate scientific knowledge, experimental results, and analyses, in both oral and written formats.

5. The ability to utilize computational tools as appropriate to the biochemistry, biophysics, and molecular biology disciplines, including research, data analysis, and communication.

6. The knowledge necessary for students, according to their career goals, to attain acceptance into advanced degree programs including graduate school, medical school, and veterinary school.

7. Familiarity with the complexity of issues facing professionals in the biochemistry, biophysics, and molecular biology disciplines, including scientific and moral ethics, cultural diversity, and environmental concerns.

8. Familiarity with the types of contributions that our disciplines can provide to society, including improvements in the human condition, and economic stimulation at the local, national, and international levels.

Assessment measures

  • Scores on professional examinations (GRE, MCAT, LSAT, etc.)
  • Exit interviews
  • Alumni surveys
  • Graduating student surveys
  • Course grades
  • Course evaluations
  • Undergraduate research participation rates and performance evaluations
  • Placement data
    • acceptance into professional schools, e.g., Ph.D. programs, medical school, pharmacy school, law school
    • employment after graduation
  • Focus groups
  • Evaluation of written laboratory reports in upper level biochemistry lab courses