FASTFACTS

  • PC’s student chapter of the American Chemical Society (ACS) recently received an Honorable Mention Award from the ACS. 
  • PC biochemistry majors often conduct research individually or with their professors.
  • Biochemists often interact with scientists from other disciplines and work independently or as part of a team.
  • Students can participate in research programs sponsored by organizations like the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health.

What You’ll Study as a Biochemistry Major

As a student studying biochemistry at PC, you take part in an innovative curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning. During your freshman and sophomore years, you will fulfill your general education requirements, which serve as the basis of your liberal arts education. Courses include those in the natural sciences, social sciences and fine arts.

In your junior and senior years, most or all of your courses will be specific to your biochemistry major.

In your junior year you may take cell biology, developmental biology and microbiology. As a senior you may take plant physiology, immunology and advanced organic chemistry. As an undergraduate student, you’re encouraged to seek laboratory experiences such as research projects, volunteering with professors or internships. As a capstone to the major, you’ll complete an independent research project on a topic related to biochemistry.

By majoring in biochemistry, you’ll gain the knowledge and experience needed to excel in the workplace and prepare you for graduate school.

MORE INFORMATION

  • CO = Co-requisite
  • POI = Permissions of Instructor
  • PR = Pre-requisite
  • RE = Recommended
  • XL = Cross-listed

STUDENT EXPERIENCES

Research Programs

As a biochem major, you can participate in research programs sponsored by the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health.

Research Opportunities »

American Chemical Society

The student chapter of the American Chemical Society (ACS) is an academic organization for students who wish to share their interest in the major.

Get Involved »

Student Research

You can conduct research with your professors as part of your undergraduate education.

Research Opportunities »

Internships

Biochemistry majors gain real-world experience by conducting internships.

Career & Professional Development »


Careers in Biochemistry

According to New Scientist Jobs, biochemists are primarily employed in the life sciences sector. They work in research roles in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, as well as working in food technology, toxicology and vaccine production.

Biochemists are typically curious and creative with strong observational and analytical skills. They can also a persevere through lengthy research projects and demonstrate competence in laboratory methods, computer science, and mathematics.

According to PayScale, the average salary for a  biochemist is $91,190.

Earning a bachelor’s degree will qualify you for employment as a laboratory assistant, technician, technologist or research assistant in education, industry, government, museums, parks and gardens. Pursuing an undergraduate degree in biochemistry with another major like  computer science , business, education, or other disciplines can unlock many other career opportunities.

After you earn your bachelor’s degree at PC, you could go on to earn a master’s degree. Then you can  specialize in a particular research area and be qualified  to teach at the college or university level. A doctoral degree  allows you to conduct  research  and pursue employment at high levels of administration.

CAREER PROFESSIONS

  • Research
  • Medicine
  • Scientific Journalism
  • Intellectual Property/Patent Law
  • Grant Writing
  • Clinical Research
  • Forensics
  • Environmental Testing
  • Regulatory Affairs
  • Scientific/Technical Recruiting

FACULTY

Dr. Latha Gearheart

Professor of Chemistry

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Dr. Stuart Gordon

Professor of Biology

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Dr. Ron Zimmerman

Professor of Biology

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Dr. Austin Shull

Assistant Professor of Biology

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