Biochemistry

What is Biochemistry?

Biochemistry is a science dedicated to studying the chemicals that occur naturally within living organisms. It utilizes the principles of chemistry and applies them to the chemicals generated at the cellular and molecular level.

Biochemistry students use several scientific disciplines to examine complex molecules in biological material and the ways in which those molecules interact. Because this field operates at the cellular level, biochemistry also paves the way for understanding and treating diseases in humans, animals, and plants. It is considered both a life science and a chemical science.

The Biochemistry Degree

Students who earn a degree in biochemistry study a curriculum featuring classes in subjects like cell biology, genetics, disease mechanisms, and metabolism. Because the degree encompasses two sciences, biochemistry major jobs include both biology and chemistry-related professions. The biochemistry degree is available at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD levels.

Biochemistry vs. Biomedical Sciences

The difference between these two degrees is in their respective scopes. A biochemistry degree focuses specifically in the chemistry of living organisms while a biomedical sciences degree has a much broader focus examining human life itself.

In other words, biochemistry is a part of the biomedical sciences family, which also includes other subjects such as anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology. Biochemistry is very specifically the focus of examining biology and chemistry at the molecular level. For a broader view, biomedical sciences would be a better match for your interests.

Biochemistry vs. Molecular Biology

The difference between biochemistry and molecular biology is a bit more technical. Biochemistry mostly concerns itself with the study of proteins and how their shape and location determine their biological function. Molecular biology goes even deeper than that, focusing on the atomic scale to examine DNA and RNA structures. So in order to choose between these two disciplines, you’ll need to determine what aspect of biological studies on the molecular level interests you the most.

Would I Make a Good Biochemist?

To be a good candidate for the biochemistry degree, you must possess an interest in the sciences and an aptitude for biology and chemistry specifically. In addition, because many biochemists concentrate their work on treating and eradicating disease, it helps to be motivated by the desire to improve human lifespans.

Biochemists spend a lot of their professional life in the lab where they regularly process a large amount of data. You need to be comfortable with mathematics and computer science in order to draw proper conclusions from that data. Furthermore, since most labs are equipped with expensive equipment like electron microscopes and lasers, you need to be comfortable with using such technology and willing to learn about new equipment when technology advances further. You will also have to be familiar with safety procedures associated with the work you do in the lab.

Associate Level

An associate degree in biochemistry features a number of basic and introductory classes in both this specific field and the sciences in general. This degree can be completed in two years, although it is not offered at every community college. The biochemistry associate degree includes courses in chemistry, biology, and mathematics and classes feature a mixture of lectures and laboratory work.

In some cases, the associate degree curriculum also includes an internship. For most students, the associate degree in biochemistry provides a transition to a 4-year institution but there are a few jobs available for associate degree holders.

Biochemistry major jobs at the associate level include: Lab Assistant, Lab Technician, and Quality Control Technician.

The average salary for these positions ranges from $28,000 (Lab Assistant) to $36,000 (Lab Technician, Quality Control Technician).

Baccalaureate Level

The bachelor’s degree in biochemistry begins with a foundation in a number of general science classes as well as mathematics. These include: biology, chemistry, physics, and calculus. From there, the biochemistry curriculum delves into the study of topics more specific to the field such as genetics, DNA, proteins, and amino acids. Courses feature a mixture of classroom assignments and lab work centered around technology like molecular spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance. A bachelor’s degree in biochemistry can usually be completed in four years.

At certain institutions, it’s possible to earn an online biochemistry degree at the bachelor’s level. These online degrees feature classes in core sciences similar to an on-campus curriculum. For some online degrees, students will be required to attend campus and participate in lab activities in person. Online bachelor’s degrees are also offered in related fields like biological sciences and biotechnology.

What Can You Do With a Biochemistry Degree?

With a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, you’ll be eligible to apply for jobs such as: Biomedical Scientist, Analytical Chemist, Clinical Research Associate, Toxicologist, Forensic Scientist, and Research Scientist.

The average salary for these careers ranges from $57,000 (Analytical Chemist, Forensic Scientist) to $65,000 (Biomedical Scientist) to $81,000 (Clinical Research Associate, Research Scientist) at the upper end of the scale.

Graduate Level

For students who wish to specialize in the field of biochemistry, numerous schools offer a master’s degree program that can be completed in two to three years. Most master’s degree programs cover topics such as modern biochemistry, cell biology, and biotechnology. Students can further specify their area of concentration by studying topics like protein engineering, biological photochemistry, molecular genetics, and biological photochemistry. There is also the option of pursuing a Master of Arts or a Master of Science degree in the subject. MS degrees are more research-oriented and provide a lead-in to a PhD program.

Students who wish to pursue a career in a research field can continue their education past the master’s-level and attempt to earn a PhD. A PhD in biochemistry takes an average of five years and consists of a number of advanced-level courses, research, lab experiments, and teaching assistantships. The program culminates in a dissertation or research project as well as a defense before biochemistry faculty. Examples of biochemistry PhD topics include: molecular biophysics, molecular genetics, virology, and biochemical research.

Biochemistry degree jobs you can land with a graduate degree include: Biomedical Scientist, Ecologist, Engineer, Science Writer, Pharmacologist, Data Scientist, and Nanotechnologist.

The average salary for these jobs ranges from $74,000 (Ecologist) and $80,000 (Biomedical Scientist, Science Writer) to $121,000 (Data Scientist) and $136,000 (Pharmacologist).

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Indiana University of Pennsylvania-Main Campus

Indiana, PA

At IUP, you’ll find yourself at the heart of a community as unique as you are. Where students and professors come from a few miles down the road, from more than 50 different countries around the world, and from everywhere in between. Here, learning...

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All of my professors push me to do my best. They offer help at any time of the day. I never used to enjoy Chemistry, let alone do well in it, I was very scared that I wouldn't be able to make it as a physical therapy major. My Chem 111 Professor made...

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Indiana University-East

Richmond, IN

Indiana University East is a regional campus of IU in Richmond. IUE grants bachelor’s degrees across eight departments as well as 14 online completion programs. Student life centers around over two dozen clubs and organizations ranging from social...

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Going to Indiana University East has its advantages; the teachers are wonderful and very smart. Generally, if you ask a question they will answer it and explain their reasons, letting the student better understand. If you are struggling in classes...

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The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston

Houston, TX

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston is the largest medical center in the world. UT Health is home to several research institutions, including the Center of Excellence in Mood Disorders, the Consortium on Aging, and the...

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UTHSC - Houston is a well known, highly regarded school for students seeking a career in the medical field. The school is located in the Texas Medical Center, which is the largest medical center in the world. The school is dedicated to educating and...

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SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University

Brooklyn, NY

Established in 1860, SUNY Downstate Medical Center is a private, medical education institution and urban service center established in Brooklyn, New York. The college offers over 30 health-centric degree programs through the colleges of Medicine...

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LIU Brooklyn

Brooklyn, NY

LIU Brooklyn is a 4-year private university in the New York City borough of Brooklyn and the original campus of Long Island University. LIU Brooklyn confers undergrad degrees in over 125 academic programs in liberal arts, business, fine arts, and...

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The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio

San Antonio, TX

The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio is a private, health science education institution. The college is divided into five schools: the Long School of Medicine, the School of Nursing, the School of Dentistry, the School of...

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UTHSCSA is a prestigious university to attend. Many hospitals are surrounded by this university and it is a great place to learn and experience. Getting admitted to this university means a lot of hard work.

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University of Washington-Bothell Campus

Bothell, WA

The University of Washington Bothell is a 4-year public school in the Seattle metro area and part of the University of Washington System. UW Bothell is home to five schools hosting 55 undergrad and graduate degree-granting programs. As a student at...

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University of Washington (Seattle) has an excellent reputation of education, so I am very pleased to know that many of the same professors also teach at the Bothell Campus. I feel like it will be a more personal experience.

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Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-New Orleans

New Orleans, LA

The Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New Orleans is a public, medical education institution. LSU Health New Orleans’ degree catalog consists primarily of Masters and Doctoral degrees, though the college does offer a few associate and...

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California Lutheran University

Thousand Oaks, CA

California Lutheran University is a private, liberal arts institution in the town of Thousand Oaks, California. With students hailing from more than 49 countries, Cal Lutheran features a diverse enrollment and is a federally designated Hispanic...

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How could you NOT learn here, there are so few students per class and the professors know you!!I was taking an easy class in my major and the professor found out I was bored, so he offered me a chance to audit an upper level class in something I was...

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Long Island University

Brookville, NY

Named for breakfast cereal magnate C.W. Post, LIU Post is a private school on Long Island’s north shore and the largest campus of Long Island University. LIU Post grants bachelor’s degrees in over 50 academic majors. In addition, LIU Post is home to...

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Drew University

Madison, NJ

Drew University is more than a place to earn your degree—it is the beginning of a successful, purpose-driven life.

Choose from 40+ majors, 60+ minors, 18 Dual-Degree programs and 17 pre-professional programs. Every student graduates with a purpose...

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There is no doubt in my mind that I am learning a lot at Drew. This college is on the Princeton Review's list of top universities and top liberal arts colleges for a reason! The topics are very engaging and intense, and although I've had a couple of...

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College of Saint Benedict

Saint Joseph, MN

Together, the College of Saint Benedict (CSB), for women, and Saint John’s University (SJU), for men, form a one-of-a-kind partnership of two top colleges – combining the abundant opportunities of a larger university with the small class sizes and...

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Pennsylvania State University-College of Medicine

Hershey, PA

Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine is a medical teaching institution established in Hershey, Pennsylvania. The college puts emphasis on research, and all students in either the Master’s programs or PhD programs are required to complete...

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Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus

Portales, NM

Eastern New Mexico University is a public, four-year liberal arts college located in Portales, NM, with satellite campuses in Roswell and Ruidoso, NM. ENMU offers more than 60 associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees in a hands-on learning...

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Friends University

Wichita, KS

Friends University Kansas is a private, Christ-centered institution established in Wichita in 1898. The college offers over 50 undergraduate and graduate-level academic programs with classes that boast a 10:1 student-teach ratio and online learning...

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The class sizes are very small so you get a lot of one on one time with the professors. They have plenty open offices hours for you to visit if you need help.

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Ohio State University Agricultural Technical Institute

Wooster, OH

Ohio State University Agricultural Technical Institute, or Ohio State ATI, functions as a regional campus, technical school, and community college all in one. Operating out of the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences’ Wooster...

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Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Berks

Reading, PA

Penn State Berks is a commonwealth campus of the state land-grant university Pennsylvania State University. The 258-acre campus is home to the Perkins Student Center, the Janssen Conference Center, the Herb Society’s garden and numerous residence...

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I am learning everything I always dreamed of! And that is a GREAT education!

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$24,278

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2,077

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Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-Shreveport

Shreveport, LA

Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport is a medical school in northwest Louisiana. LSU Health is home to Schools of Medicine, Allied Health Professions, and Graduate Studies featuring courses from 31 health science-related...

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Cumberland University

Lebanon, TN

Cumberland University is a private university in Lebanon, Tennessee. The university was founded by the Cumberland Presbyterian Church in 1842, and five years later a law school was added, followed by the school of theology in 1854. The Cumberland...

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If you plan on attending all four years, you will make friendships and relationships with your professors who all know you by name and really do want you to be the best you can be. Every professor is looking out for your best interest. One of our...

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$24,458

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2,588

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CUNY Graduate School and University Center

New York, NY

CUNY Graduate School and University Center is rated as a Doctoral University with Highest Research Activity and set in Midtown Manhattan. The graduate school is home to several research centers and promotes interdisciplinary research and...

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24%

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Saint Johns University

Collegeville, MN

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I expect to learn a lot in this environment where the faculty is very involved in the students progress.

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1194

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86%

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$24,271

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1,645

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University of Puerto Rico-Medical Sciences

San Juan, PR

Originally founded as the Tropical Medicine Institute, the University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus is a medical school affiliated with UPR in San Juan. The Medical Sciences Campus is home to six schools of Nursing, Medicine, Dental Medicine...

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2,034

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Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences

Rochester, MN

The Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences is a graduate-level medical school with three locations in Rochester, MN, Phoenix, and Jacksonville. The Mayo Clinic Graduate School offers PhD programs in seven areas of medicine as well as an...

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267

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Arizona State University Digital Immersion

Scottsdale, AZ

Arizona State University at Skysong is an innovation center affiliated with ASU in Scottsdale. ASU Skysong combines academia with local industry by providing university programs to support entrepreneurs from area businesses. Skysong also facilitates...

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64%

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$13,971

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62,551

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Weill Medical College of Cornell University

New York, NY

Located just a few blocks from Manhattan’s 59th Street Bridge, Weill Cornell Medical College is affiliated with Cornell University and partnered with New York-Presbyterian Hospital. Weill Cornell combines the renowned academic reputation of an Ivy...

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1,327

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Concordia University-Montreal

Canada

Concordia University in Montreal is the best university in Canada under 50 years old, according to the Times Higher Education Young University Rankings, and among the largest, with 50,000 students. Montreal is the number one student city in North...

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46,829

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University of Liverpool

The University of Liverpool is an institution located in the city of the same name. Founded in 1881, the redbrick university is proud of their founding mission, ‘for the advancement of learning and enoblement of life,’ which they still maintain today...

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1290

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3 To 4 Year

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30,000

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Imperial College London

Imperial is one of the world’s 10 top universities (QS World University Rankings 2024), in one of its most iconic cities – London, UK. With students from more than 140 countries (including a growing number of US students), and a specialist community...

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13%

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3 To 4 Year

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22,445

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Albert Einstein College of Medicine

Bronx, NY

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1,303

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Biochemistry

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