Biochemistry

Overview

Biochemistry programs teach people the chemistry, substances, and reactions of living systems.

Biochemistry programs include topics such as:

Bio-organic chemistry
Protein chemistry
Bioanalytical chemistry
Enzymology
Hormonal chemistry
Research methodology

Concentrations

In biochemistry programs, students may be able to specialize in:

Biophysics
Molecular biology

Schools

A few community colleges and other two-year schools offer associate degree programs in biochemistry. An associate degree usually takes two years to complete. Students may work as a lab technician with an associate degree, or transfer to a college or university for further study.

Many colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees in biochemistry. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study.

Many universities offer graduate degrees in biochemistry. A master's degree typically requires two years of study beyond a bachelor's degree. Doctoral (PhD) degree programs usually require two or more years of study beyond the master's degree.

See schools that offer this program.

Related Educational Programs

Related Careers

Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study

Other Careers Related to this Program of Study

Program Admission

You can prepare for this program by taking courses in high school that prepare you for college. This typically includes four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

Advanced Chemistry courses
Biology
Calculus
Computer Science and Programming
Physics
Probability and Statistics
Trigonometry

Graduate Admissions

Admission to graduate programs is competitive. You need a bachelor's degree in biochemistry, chemistry, or related science, good grades, and good test scores.

Additional requirements at some schools include:

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General
Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Biochemistry
Statement of research interest and personal goals
Letters of recommendation

Typical Course Work

Program Courses

This undergraduate program typically includes courses in the following subjects:

Biochemistry
Biochemistry and Cellular Metabolism
Biology
Calculus
Experimental Biochemistry
General Chemistry
Instrumental Methods
Molecular Genetics and Regulation
Organic Chemistry
Physical Biochemistry
Physics
Scientific Computer Programming
Technical Writing

No matter where you go to school, you're likely to take a set of "core" courses similar to the list above. Once you've completed those courses, you can take advanced courses that focus on a specific area of biochemistry.

Graduate Program Courses

Graduate students usually focus on one particular application. Typical courses vary by specialty. All require original research. A list of common graduate requirements is below:

Required courses
Required lab rotations
Thesis (master's degree)
Preliminary exams (doctoral degree only)
Dissertation and dissertation defense (doctoral degree)

Things to Know

A bachelor's degree prepares you for graduate studies or for an entry-level position as a research assistant or lab technician. It can be a good preparation for medical, dental, and veterinary school.

Biochemists who work in hospitals may need certification.

A postdoctoral research assignment can help you gain experience before finding a permanent research position.