What will I study as a biochemistry major?

If you desire to make an impact on people by applying biblical knowledge and Christian faith to science professions in our world, then you are well-suited for this major. The interdisciplinary biochemistry program promotes the value and understanding of living systems at the molecular level, and coursework that integrates scientific theory and application with biblical principles and practice in the health science community. Career-relevant learning topics and highlights include:

• Principles of cellular and molecular biology, genetics and development
• Understanding of chromosome and membrane structure and gene expression
• Organic chemistry with special emphasis on reaction mechanisms
• Laboratory techniques for the isolation and purification of organic molecules
• Chemical methods of analysis, including titrimetry, electrochemisty, spectroscopy and chromatography
• Mathematical treatment of bioenergetics and biochemical kinetics
• Fundamentals of experimental and instrumental design
• Principles behind quality management in a professional biochemistry lab

What can you do with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry?

With a strong biochemistry foundation and extensive laboratory experience, you will be prepared to pursue positions in industry or academia, or graduate studies in a variety of science programs across chemistry, biology and other science/health/technology fields. Your studies will prepare you to impact the world for Jesus Christ in public- or private-sector research institutes, biotechnology companies, universities, government agencies, forensic science services and medical facilities, working in such careers as:

• Microbiologist
• Consumer products research scientist
• Medical geneticist
• Pharmaceutical sales representative
• Environmental scientist
• Medical and clinical laboratory technologist
• Biochemist or biophysicist
• FDA inspector
• Research and development scientist
• Crime lab analyst
• Toxicologist

In addition, many graduates of Biola's biochemistry program pursue graduate studies, while others move into research positions or other scientific career-building opportunities. Professional highlights include:

• Clinical scientist with focus on scientific methodologies
• Researcher at Children’s National Hospital
• Loma Linda University, M.D./Ph.D. program
• Texas A&M University, Veterinary Medicine Program
• University of Michigan, Ph.D. program in the College of Pharmacy
• University of Southern California, Ph.D. program in Biostatistics 
• Vanderbilt University, Ph.D. program in Materials Science
• Graduate studies (M.D. or Ph.D.) at highly acclaimed universities such as: University of California, Los Angeles; University of California, San Diego; University of Southern California; Michigan State University; Tulane University; University of Chicago; University of Washington; University of Arizona; Washington State University; University of Texas

Explore the Biola Office of Health Professions Advising (BOHPA), a distinctive of Biola, that provides experienced advice for navigating your healthcare journey, resources for taking qualifying exams like the GRE and MCAT, mock interviews, clinical shadowing experiences with health professionals, and strategic advice for applying to postgraduate programs.