University of Venda UNIVEN Biochemistry
University of Venda Biochemistry, The Department and Centre for Biochemistry intend to provide high quality education, practical skills training, and research in the biochemical/biotechnological sciences. The aim is to promote Bioscience in all its endeavors by reaching out and by dynamically responding to the needs of all role players at the University, the local industries and of the communities it plans to serve.
First Year Modules
- BTB 1641: Biochemistry for Health Sciences and Biotechnology
Second Year Modules
- BCM 2541: Structural and Functional Biochemistry I
- BCM 2542: Structural and Functional Biochemistry II
These modules cover a full structural and functional description of the biochemical environment in living systems, including naturally-occurring compounds, biochemical energetic, kinetics and buffer function. First year modules in Chemistry and Biological Science form the prerequisites for admission to these modules.
- BCM 2641: Metabolism I
- BCM 2642: Metabolism II
All major metabolic sequences are discussed in detail including energy metabolism and an introduction to molecular biology principles as based upon nucleic acid metabolism. The same prerequisites as above are expected, as well as the successful completion of BCM 2541 and BCM 2542. Practical classes are presented every week during the semester where students are trained to develop experimental skills in analytical determination of biochemical and other metabolites as well as the use of apparatus in the Biochemistry laboratory .
Third Year Modules
- BCM 3541: Protein Biochemistry
- BCM 3542: Biochemical Techniques
- BCM 3641: Physiological Biochemistry
- BCM 3642: Genetic Information
Detailed subject areas are developed and discussed with the emphasis on also developing analytical and practical skills. Students start to work on a project during theoretical and practical training and the ideal is for them to present their findings at a Departmental seminar/project session at the end of the second semester to all colleagues and lecturing staff. Lack of funds and facilities have prevented these presentations, but students do prepare and present seminars on selected topics during this year of study. prerequisites are the second year courses/modules in Biochemistry as shown above .