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.

Required Courses Meet the Faculty

“I really liked this award because you can [work] one-on-one with a professor, and you learn outside of lecture. It just gives you really hands-on experience … This really gives you an insight of how a lab is done.”

Andrew Rodriguez ’24, Biochemistry Major

Andrew was a recipient of the Martin Science Research Institute Award in the summer of 2023. Learn more about research opportunities for students.

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.

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…

Questions? Contact Us!

• Dr. Ellen M. Mitchell, Department Chair
• 540-828-5635
• emitchel@bridgewater.edu