Biochemistry
Investigate the chemical and genetic mechanisms that regulate living matter.
Biochemistry is the study of the chemical reactions that occur within – and relate to – living organisms. As a biochemistry major, you will:
-
- Explore how the processes that occur within cells can help us understand whole organisms.
- Discover how biochemical findings can transform medicine, nutrition and agriculture.
- Undertake research through upper-level classes, with the opportunity to present your findings at regional and national conferences.
At A Glance
-
12:1Student-to-faculty ratio
-
18Average class size
Possible Careers
Investigate the chemical and genetic mechanisms that regulate living matter.
Biochemistry is the study of the chemical reactions that occur within – and relate to – living organisms. As a biochemistry major, you will:
-
- Explore how the processes that occur within cells can help us understand whole organisms.
- Discover how biochemical findings can transform medicine, nutrition and agriculture.
- Undertake research through upper-level classes, with the opportunity to present your findings at regional and national conferences.
Get to Know Biochemistry
Meet the Faculty
Research
Through the Alma Venture, you can design a unique research experience at home or abroad. Find out more about Venture funding.
Explore the Curriculum
Learn more about the fundamental courses that will offer a roadmap for your academic growth and expertise development.
Balance breadth with rigor.
The biochemistry program is truly interdisciplinary. As a student, you’ll integrate coursework in chemistry, biology, physics, basic and advanced biochemistry, genetics and molecular biology, toxicology and cell biology.
You’ll cultivate strong lab skills and develop the ability to critically read current literature. You’ll also learn how to design a detailed experimental strategy to test new hypotheses.
You’ll have plenty of ways to gain hands-on experience, too. Biochemistry majors frequently participate in independent studies with faculty members. In addition, some receive funding for summer research fellowships.
When I came to Alma, I loved science, but I thought my only path to turning that into a career was through the medical field. Now, I’m aiming to do a PhD program for chemistry, in the hopes of someday eliminating chronic wasting disease.
What You Need to Know
A degree in biochemistry provides you with a wide range of potential career paths. About one-third of our majors have continued training toward advanced degrees (M.S. or Ph.D.). Some have pursued healthcare professions, usually attending medical school.
Others enter the job market directly, finding work in in-demand and well-compensated fields. These include the pharmaceutical industries, biotechnology, and public and private research institutions.
Get Connected
Student Organizations
Flex your skills, collaborate and foster professional development in our 100+ student clubs and organizations.
