PhD in Biochemistry

1. To enable the distinguished recipients of a master’s degree in biochemistry and life sciences to continue to develop their abilities for a PhD and to serve the scientific and academic research.
2. To provide the Saudi labor market with high-capacity scientifically trained personnel carrying PhD degree in biochemistry.
3. The development of scientific research and academic profile of the students through organizing seminars in which students actively participate.
4. Transfer the experiences of faculty members for a new generation of researchers and keep abreast with the latest global research trends.
5. Innovation of research programs to meet the local requirements to support the development plans of scientific and research excellence and to contribute to the cognitive development of the national economy.

In addition to the admission requirements mentioned in the unified regulations for graduate studies in Saudi universities and the organizational and executive rules and procedures for postgraduate studies at King Saud University, the department requires the following to enroll in the program:

1. Must have a master degree in biochemistry or related specialties from King Saud University or its equivalent with a very good grade (if from a University that offer a grade) and no more than five years from getting the master degree.
2. Obtain a score of at least (45) in the TOEFL online test (IBT) or (5) in IELTS.

First Year – First Semester

BCH601 – Advanced Applied Biochemistry – 3 Credit Hours

• Topics include biomolecule separation, bioremediation, and advanced laboratory methods.

BCH602 – Advanced Bioanalytical Techniques – 3 Credit Hours

• Covers next-generation sequencing, protein crystallization, and modern analytical methods.

BCH603 – Recent Aspects of Molecular Genetics – 3 Credit Hours

• Focuses on gene expression regulation, DNA repair, and molecular genetic techniques.

First Year – Second Semester

BCH613 – Seminars in Biochemistry – 3 Credit Hours

• Preparation and presentation of current research, critical discussion of literature.

BCH699 – Search Plan – 3 Credit Hours

• Selection of thesis subject, identification of research problem, and preliminary planning.

Elective Course I – 3 Credit Hours

• Chosen from a specialized list according to the student’s research track (Applied or Clinical Biochemistry).

Second Year – First Semester

Elective Course II – 3 Credit Hours

• Advanced course in the student’s specialization track.

Comprehensive Exam Preparation – 0 Credit Hours

• Written and oral qualifying exam required to advance to the research phase.

Second Year – Second Semester and Research Phase

BCH700 – Doctoral Thesis – 24 Credit Hours

• Original, independent research in the chosen specialization track.
• Thesis defense required for completion of the program.