The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Texas Wesleyan recently earned accreditation from the American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB). Texas Wesleyan is the first university in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex to receive this distinction. 

To date, only 62 other universities in the United States have earned this accreditation for their biochemistry program. The ASBMB is a nonprofit scientific and educational organization with more than 12,000 members that promotes excellence and innovation in STEM.

“This honor recognizes our students’ hard work as well as the dedication of our faculty to deliver a high quality and rigorous education,” Ricardo Rodriguez, dean of the School of Natural and Social Sciences, said. “The recognition is an affirmation of what we always knew with respect to the quality of the Chemistry and Biochemistry Program.”

The endorsement validates the depth and breadth of the curriculum taught within the department while enhancing the value to students who pursue these recognized degrees. Degree programs covered by the recent accreditation are the B.S. in Biochemistry and the B.A. in Biochemistry – Health Science Emphasis.

“Our program focuses on preparing knowledgeable and technically proficient graduates who can become active members in the chemical, biochemical and medical communities,” Phillip Pelphrey, Ph.D., associate professor and chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, said. “We strive to ensure that our  students are competitive when seeking entrance into graduate school, professional programs and the job market.”

As part of the accreditation process, the program was noted for its personal attention and mentorship to students, as exemplified in its hands-on, upper-level research program. Through one-on-one interaction with faculty members, students seek to answer relevant research problems.