Biochemistry

Biochemists focus on the chemistry of life. The biochemistry major provides knowledge in chemistry, biochemistry, and biology which will prepare you to consider real-world problems from a variety of perspectives. You will be able to immediately contribute your skills in corporate, health care, or government positions. You will also be ready to enter professional education in medicine or other health-related fields or attend graduate programs in a variety of chemical and life sciences related programs.

Biochemistry majors often have an interest in combining the life and health sciences with a chemistry degree. You'll take a year of general biology in addition to a typical chemistry curriculum. During the upper-level years, you'll take a substantial core of courses in biochemistry, physical chemistry, the liberal arts, and elective courses in life sciences. You must take a minimum of two upper-division biology electives.

Employment opportunities for biochemistry students are available in the chemical, pharmaceutical, agricultural, forensic, and rapidly expanding biotechnological fields. You'll also be well-prepared to enter advanced degree programs in biochemistry, medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, and veterinary medicine.

Nature of Work

Employment opportunities for biochemistry graduates exist in the chemical, pharmaceutical, agricultural, forensic, and rapidly expanding biotechnological fields. Graduates also are well-prepared to enter advanced degree programs in biochemistry, medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, and veterinary medicine.

Training/Qualifications

Biochemistry students who graduate with a BS degree are qualified for positions working at the bench in the pharmaceutical industry, medical research organizations, and environmental quality labs. According to the profile for biochemists in the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook, many biochemistry students progress to earn more advanced degrees, sometimes combining their technical expertise with a law degree or an MBA to forge a new career path. Biochemists need a doctorate to work in independent research and development positions. Most holders of doctorate degrees begin their careers in temporary postdoctoral research positions. During their postdoctoral appointments, they work with experienced scientists, as they continue to learn about their specialties or develop a broader understanding of related areas of research. Postdoctoral positions frequently offer the opportunity to publish research findings. A solid record of published research is essential to get a permanent position doing basic research, especially for those seeking a permanent college or university faculty position. A significant number of our graduates have gone on to accept faculty appointments at numerous universities.

Advanced Degrees

Chemistry and materials science and engineering graduate programs offered by the School of Chemistry and Materials Science prepare professional scientists by offering curricula that allow students to specialize in their chosen fields while engaging in rigorous, meaningful research using state-of-the-art instrumentation and facilities, under the guidance of a faculty mentor. The school offers the following advanced degrees: an advanced certificate in materials science and engineering, and master of science degrees in chemistry and materials science and engineering.

Premedical and Health Professions Advisory Program

Medical schools and graduate programs in the health professions (such as physician assistant, physical therapy, and occupational therapy) welcome applications from students majoring in a wide range of academic programs. Acceptance into these programs requires the completion of pre-med requirements such as course work in biological and physical sciences, a strong academic record, pertinent experiences in the field, and key intrapersonal and interpersonal capabilities. Learn more about how RIT's Premedical and Health Professions Advisory Program can help you become a competitive candidate for admission to graduate programs in the medical and health professions.

Pre-Vet Advising Program

Occupations in veterinary medicine are expected to grow three times faster than all other occupations between 2016 and 2026. If you're interested in caring for animals, conducting research related to animal illnesses, or working with livestock in university or government settings, the Pre-Vet Advising Program at RIT can help you reach your career goals. Learn more about RIT's personalized Pre-Vet Advising Program and how it can help you maximize your candidacy for admission to veterinary schools.

Combined Accelerated Bachelor's/Master's Degrees

Today's careers require advanced degrees grounded in real-world experience. RIT's Combined Accelerated Bachelor's/Master's Degrees enable you to earn both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years of study, all while gaining the valuable hands-on experience that comes from co-ops, internships, research, study abroad, and more.

+1 MBA: Students who enroll in a qualifying undergraduate degree have the opportunity to add an MBA to their bachelor's degree after their first year of study, depending on their program. Learn how the +1 MBA can accelerate your learning and position you for success.

Typical Job Titles