What Is the Typical Curriculum for a Biochemistry Degree Program?
The typical curriculum for an undergraduate biochemistry degree includes both chemistry and biology courses, along with general education requirements. Lab classes figure prominently in a biochemistry curriculum.
Biochemistry Overview
A typical curriculum for a Biochemistry Degree focuses on chemistry and research and is designed with specialized career choices in mind. A graduate pursuing a career in biotechnology requires an education that is based in both chemistry and biology.
Important Facts About Biochemistry Careers
| Entry-Level Education | Doctoral or professional degree |
| Training | After obtaining a Ph.D., one usually gains on-the-job training through a research position |
| Key Skills | Analytical, communication, critical-thinking, interpersonal, and math skills |
| Work Environment | Biochemists work mostly full-time in laboratories and offices conducting experiments |
| Median Salary (2021) | $102,270 (Biochemists and Biophysicists) |
| Job Outlook (2021-2031) | 15% (Biochemists and Biophysicists) |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
General Curriculum for a Bachelor's Degree in Biochemistry
The typical curriculum in a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry Degree program allows graduates to pursue careers in biochemistry or biotechnology or to go on to graduate school programs in biochemistry, medicine, dentistry or veterinary medicine. Most require around 30 hours of chemistry and another 30 or so credits in biology, mathematics and physics. Some may offer minors or secondary concentrations. Undergraduate general education requirements are in English, foreign language and related humanities and social science topics.
Core Chemistry Courses
A typical curriculum for a Biochemistry Degree Program includes general chemistry courses and courses focusing on facets of chemistry like organic chemistry, physical chemistry, biochemistry and chemistry of elements. Students study the analysis of equilibrium systems, instrumental analysis and chemistry frontiers. Many classes have lab co-requisites.
Core Biology Courses
Biochemistry majors take both biochemistry lab and undergraduate research courses. Required biology courses are:
- Concepts in biology and lab
- Cell structure and function
- General genetics