Program Overview

Biochemistry Major

Earn a hybrid degree in biology and chemistry

One of the most important fields of chemistry, biochemistry is a hybrid of the fields of biology and chemistry. As a biochemistry major, you’ll build a strong foundation in both disciplines while gaining specialized knowledge in biochemical principles and laboratory techniques. This interdisciplinary degree prepares you for a wide range of career paths in medicine, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and biomedical research.

What to Expect as a Biochemistry student

• 51-52 credit hours of courses that are a combination of biology and chemistry
• Most semesters include significant time in the lab, where students practice with modern chemical techniques and scientific instrumentation
• The program fosters a close-knit academic community, offering students direct access to experienced faculty and mentoring throughout their studies

Curriculum Overview: Biochemistry Courses and Lab Experience

Students build a firm understanding of biological and chemical principles in the first year with the general chemistry and principles of biology sequences. That foundational knowledge is expanded in the second year with organic chemistry and molecular biology. In the junior and senior years, students learn about chemical instrumentation and theoretical energetics in addition to completing the biochemistry sequence, resulting in biochemistry graduates who are well-prepared for pharmacy, medical, and graduate schools.

Biochemistry I With Lab

CHEM-356

Introduction to the major biomolecular compound classes, including carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, along with a survey of enzyme kinetics and the overall regulation of key metabolic pathways.

Physical Chemistry for the Life Sciences

CHEM-415

Physical chemistry for the life sciences focuses on the energetics of biochemical reactions. Using thermodynamics, we can predict which reactions are spontaneous and how to drive nonspontaneous reactions.

Organic Chemistry II & Spectroscopy

CHEM-310

This organic chemistry course has a research-project-based laboratory, allowing students to experience research while learning organic laboratory principles. Students synthesize and test drug analogs for bioactivity, replicating the industrial drug discovery process.

Launch Your Career with a Biochemistry Degree

Graduates of the biochemistry program pursue careers in medical research, medicine, higher education, biotechnology, agricultural chemistry, engineering, computational chemistry, crystallography, oil and petroleum, or viticulture.

• Research Scientist
• Agricultural Chemist
• Clinical Laboratory Scientist
• Biotechnologist
• Genetic Engineer
• Food Chemist
• Patent Attorney
• Science Educator
• Forensic Biochemist
• Environmental Analyst

Graduate School Opportunities

The biochemistry major fulfills most prerequisites for medical, dental, and pharmacy school programs. Many graduates continue their studies in graduate research programs, biotechnology training, or clinical science fields, keeping a wide range of postgraduate options open.

Graduate Schools

Like many BC graduates, you might enter graduate schools such as:

• Boston University
• George Mason University
• Georgetown University
• University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill
• Shenandoah University
• University of Tennessee
• University of Virginia
• West Virginia University

Join the Chemistry and Biochemistry Club

Network with your classmates and faculty as part of the Chemistry and Biochemistry Club. Follow the department’s Instagram for an inside look at the club and see the passion for chemistry on campus.

Research

As a Bridgewater student, you can work closely with a faculty member to conduct cutting-edge research.

Chemistry Facilities

Located on the third floor of the McKinney Center for Science and Mathematics, the chemistry department maintains a well-equipped laboratory of chemical instrumentation.

Clubs, Societies, and Organizations

Bridgewater College is home to over 60 student-run clubs and organizations, as well as numerous honors societies and musical ensembles. Don’t see a club you’re interested in? Start one!