BIOL 4350 Biological Chemistry

This course is designed to introduce biology and biochemistry majors to the subject with an emphasis on understanding the biochemical principals that are crucial to biological function at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels. The material includes: (1) the structure and chemistry of biomolecules, including amino acids, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids; (2) the key metabolic pathways and enzymology involved in the synthesis/degradation of carbohydrates; and (3) the cycling of energy through biological systems. Reference will be made to alterations in biochemical structures, processes, and pathways that relate to specific diseases. At least one 3000 level biology course (preferably more than one) is strongly encouraged.

Course overview

Department
Biology
School
MCAS
Credits
3
Level
Undergraduate
Offered
Every Fall,Every Spring

Catalog details

Prerequisites
BIOL2040 or CHEM2232 and CHEM2234 or CHEM2241 and CHEM2243 or CHEM2012 and CHEM2014

Catalog text is imported from the reviewed Boston College course snapshot. Confirm eligibility in EagleApps.

Requirements fulfilled

  • Biology B.A.: 3000-level-or-higher Biology elective options (Current University Catalog; students should confirm their catalog year)
  • Biology B.S.: 3000-level-or-higher Biology elective options (Current University Catalog; students should confirm their catalog year)
  • Biochemistry B.S.: CHEM4473 Physical Chemistry for Biochemistry majors (3 credits) CHEM4461–4462 Biochemistry I and II; or BIOL4350 Biological Chemistry and BIOL4400 Molecular Biology (6 credits) (Current University Catalog; students should confirm their catalog year)
  • Biology B.S.: Chemistry corequisites (Current University Catalog; students should confirm their catalog year)

Requirement eligibility can vary by school, cohort, and section. Confirm the selected section in EagleApps or with an advisor.

Official evaluation summary

2.85 / 5

Based on 596 aggregate responses from BC Avalanche/Blue evaluations.

Data freshness

Course and evaluation data last updated 2026-08-02. Source details and limitations are documented in Data Sources and Methodology.

Instructors

  • Eric Folker
    Fall 2026, Spring 2026 · Official rating 3.20/5
  • Michelle Meyer
    Spring 2025, Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022 · Official rating 2.73/5
  • Rebecca Dunn
    Fall 2025, Spring 2025, Fall 2023 · Official rating 3.83/5

Sections

  • Section 01
    Fall 2026 · Eric Folker · Higgins Hall 310 TuTh 12:00 Noon-01:15PM · Offered