Biochemistry Degree

A Biochemistry degree from Westminster College

The Departments of Biology and Chemistry offer an interdisciplinary major program of study leading to a Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry. The degree in Biochemistry program is structured into two tracks, biological emphasis and chemical emphasis, to allow you to pursue a more advanced study of biochemistry to fulfill your particular interests and professional goals. Both tracks require introductory biology and chemistry courses which emphasize fundamental concepts and give you a clear insight into the underlying biological and chemical principles.

The Biodiversity, Biological Processes and General Chemistry courses fulfill the general degree requirements for a course in laboratory science as well as serving as foundation courses for biochemistry students.

view biochemistry biological emphasis program plan


VIEW BIOCHEMISTRY CHEMISTRY EMPHASIS PROGRAM PLAN

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Students performing experiment
Chemistry Lab

Build a solid foundation in modern lab technologies via experimentation

What can you do with a Biochemistry Degree

A biochemistry degree opens up various career paths in both scientific and applied fields. Here are some exciting options for biochemistry graduates:

  1. Forensic Science Technician: These professionals assist forensic scientists in criminal investigations by performing tests and reporting results.
  2. Forensic Scientist: Conducts scientific analysis related to criminal cases.
  3. Microbiologist: Studies microorganisms and their effects on health and the environment.
  4. Biochemist: Investigates biological processes at the molecular level.
  5. Biologist: Explores living organisms and their interactions.
  6. Research Scientist: Engages in scientific research across various domains.
  7. Biochemistry Professor: Teaches and conducts research at universities.
  8. Chemical Engineer: Applies chemical principles to develop products and processes.

Additionally, biochemistry graduates can work in industries such as bioinformaticsbiotechnologypharmaceuticalsfood and beverageagriculture, and forensic science.

Why Earn a Biochemistry degree at Westminster College?

Work in a Modern Chemistry Lab

At Westminster College, we offer an unparalleled experience for pre-med and health professions students: hands-on human cadaveric dissection. Unlike most undergraduate institutions where students merely observe, our program empowers students to actively participate in this transformative learning process.

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Check out what Westminster biochemistry students and alums are doing and get biochemistry department updates.

Biochemistry News

“I chose Westminster for pre-medicine specifically for the great reputation of their biology department as well as the human cadaveric lab. I received a tremendous amount of help from my professors. You just don’t get that interaction at bigger schools”

Michaela Beedy, Biochemistry Major, Class of 2024

Biochemistry Program FAQs

Yes! Nearly all of our students get first-hand research experience. There are two ways for you to be involved in research. One, there will be opportunities in some of the courses, such as Biochemistry and Physiology, to do independent projects in the lab. Or, if you have a hypothesis of your own or want to work with a faculty on their research, you can get independent study course credit for it!

Yes! If you enroll in Human Anatomy, Gross Anatomy, or pursue an independent prosection, you have multiple opportunities to spend hours working with the human donors. For example, many of our pre-dental students have worked on prosections of the face and pre-podiatry students have made prosections of the foot.

Yes! Career Services provides help with resume writing, internships, shadowing experiences, and the fundamentals of the interview process. The Biology Faculty’s coursework is aligned with topics covered on the major Admissions Tests (MCAT, DAT, PCAT) and can assist you with mock interviews and prepping all aspects of your applications. We’re here to help!

Our biochemistry students have varied interests and are active across campus. Many are involved in the Pre-Healthcare Professionals Club (PHCPA), Peer Health Educators, Tri-Beta the National Biology Honor Society, or the gardening club (which got a new greenhouse in 2019!).  Many biochemistry students are also active in athletics, choir, and Greek Life.