B.S. in Biochemistry
Biochemistry, the study of the chemistry of living systems, is an essential field for those interested in biomedical research, drug discovery, medicine and other health-related careers. In Biola's biochemistry program, you'll gain the strong technical foundation you need for entrance into medical and health professional schools, or graduate programs at the intersection of biology and chemistry.
In addition to its strong curriculum, expert faculty members and vigorous biblical integration of faith and science, Biola’s biochemistry program offers several key advantages:
- Small class sizes provide maximum interaction and faculty mentoring.
- Student groups like Health Careers Club offer numerous opportunities for support and interaction with a community of peers.
- Biola's location in Southern California offers numerous opportunities for internships and research in hospital, clinical, industrial, government and other academic laboratories.
- Green Chemistry training will train you to work with chemicals and materials by applying the 12 principles of green chemistry in the biochemical sciences. Learn more about the Green Chemistry Commitment on the Department of Biological Sciences and Chemistry website.
- Hands-on experience with modern scientific equipment in well-equipped chemistry and biology labs at the Lim Center. Instruments include a high-performance liquid chromatograph, an electron microscope, inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometer, and a high-speed centrifuge.
- Be mentored by expert faculty who integrate their Christian faith into their lives as researchers, teachers and ministers in local or global communities. Students have opportunities to be involved in directed research with faculty, participate in presentations at various conferences and co-author peer-reviewed journal articles. Learn more about our faculty and student research.
Concentrations
- Pre-Medical Studies
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Career Outlook and Preparation
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.
14% job growth
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth for forensic science technicians is projected to be much faster than average between 2023 and 2033.
BLS projections are not specific to Biola University students or graduates.
The integration of science and Christianity fascinates me, it is possible! I am blessed to be encouraged by our professors who love science, but love God even more.
The beautiful intricacies of God's creation weave faith, science, reason, medicine and the human condition into a wonderful tapestry. The skills and perspectives that were shared with me at Biola are invaluable.
I utilized the same critical thinking in philosophical and theological texts as I did with scientific theories and evidence and found them all complementary in leading me closer to the incredible beauty and wonder of our God.
... It has been helpful to remember that despite those who laugh at God being in control of anything, they're spending their time discovering how things work in the laws that he made for creation.
...the faculty went out of their way to support my career ambitions and encouraged me throughout the entire process and helped me pursue my ambitions while maintaining my faith.
Biochemistry, B.S. '12
