USM Chemistry (Biochemistry Emphasis) Degree Earns ASBMB Reaccreditation

Wed, 01/31/2024 - 01:21pm | By: Ivonne Kawas

The University of Southern Mississippi’s (USM) B.S. degree in Chemistry (Biochemistry emphasis) has earned reaccreditation by the leading agency in the field of life sciences — the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB).

This accreditation was obtained for the first time in 2017. Obtaining ASBMB accreditation, a national outcomes-based evaluation, ensures programs in the field meet the highest standards of academic excellence. USM’s chemistry degree program is housed in the School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (MANS),

“Accreditation by ASBMB is a testament to the quality and content of our biochemistry curriculum, as well as to the knowledge and skills learned by our students as they begin to seek careers or further their studies at the graduate or professional levels,” said Dr. Chris Winstead, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “I appreciate the effort of the faculty in seeking this accreditation. This shows their dedication to providing the best preparation possible for our Southern Miss students, an education that is well-aligned with national standards and prepares them for their next steps.”

Dr. Vijay Rangachari, professor of chemistry and biochemistry, emphasizes one of the direct accreditation benefits for students.

“ASBMB accreditation inherently enhances the value of the student’s degree, allowing them to include on their resume that they graduated from an ASBMB-accredited program. Furthermore, upon degree completion, they can demonstrate competitiveness on a national scale by obtaining ASBMB certification.”

Dr. Rangachari also highlights one of the strengths of the program, integral to both student success and ASBMB accreditation: the hands-on research opportunities provided in the laboratory.

“To meet accreditation requirements, the curricula must include over 400 hours of hands-on laboratory experience. Therefore, students get an advantage in advancing their careers.”

Students like Landon Lee, a native of Hattiesburg, Miss. who is pursuing the biochemistry emphasis, actively participate in cutting-edge research projects in the lab, alongside graduate students and faculty mentors.

“Joining a research lab has significantly enriched my educational experience, as I’ve been able to acquire skills related to academic research, project management, and creative thinking,” said Lee. “With the support and guidance from both the graduate students in my lab and Dr. Rangachari, my faculty mentor, it has become more than just a platform for applying classroom concepts; it has provided me a community that fosters my personal and academic development.”

After completing his bachelor’s degree, Lee plans to further his studies: “As I complete my degree, I intend to pursue a Ph.D. in neuroscience. My coursework has undoubtedly laid a strong foundation in physics, chemistry, and mathematics, enabling me to demonstrate key strengths as I strive toward this goal.”

Dr. Theofanis Kitsopoulos, director in the School of MANS, reflects on the program’s successful and highly valued alumni base, as it opens doors to diverse industries.

“Our curriculum is carefully crafted to equip students not only with a strong theoretical foundation but also with practical skills highly valued in the job market,” said Dr. Kitsopoulos. “Several of our alumni choose to pursue advanced degrees in prestigious graduate programs in medical, dental, pharmaceutical, and other professional schools. They go on to succeed in diverse industries such as research and development, healthcare, environmental consulting, forensic science, and entrepreneurship. Some thrive as quality control and analytical chemists, while others pursue fulfilling paths as middle and high school science and chemistry teachers.”

Learn more about the B.S. degree in Chemistry (Biochemistry emphasis).