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Eberly College of Arts & Sciences Department of Biology
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B.S. in Biochemistry

Prepare for professional employment in the expanding fields of agricultural and environmental sciences, chemical industry, health-related industries and biotechnology-based industries.
Plan of Study

The path to medical, dental, pharmacy or graduate school starts here. Biology, chemistry, mathematics and physics courses will challenge you in the classroom, while you pursue solutions to the world’s biggest issues in the lab — and build the foundation you need for professional or graduate school.

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Program Overview

Program Delivery: On-campus

An interdisciplinary science, biochemistry is the study of living organisms and is essential in creating and testing new foods, drugs and agricultural techniques. It's ideal if you are interested in pursuing a career in a variety of health professions.

In addition to gaining basic and advanced scientific knowledge, Biochemistry students also graduate with degrees certified by either the American Chemical Society or the American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

Opportunities

Explore the WVU Difference through this program's academic, research, and student life opportunities.

  • Only intercollegiate program offered at WVU. Students are members of both the Davis College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences.
  • Dedicated Biochemistry teaching labs in three departments (Animal and Nutritional Sciences, Chemistry and Biology) containing instrumentation required for a full laboratory experience.
  • Students eligible for enrichment funds from both the Davis and Eberly Colleges to fund special activities like undergraduate research and study abroad.
  • Scholarships from both colleges available.
  • Field trips to major research, healthcare or teaching facilities to tour and learn about internship and career opportunities.
  • Both tracks accredited by outside organizations.
  • American Chemical Society (ACS) track students earn a certified degree.
  • American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) track students sit for a certification exam in the spring semester of their last year to earn a certificate.
  • Biochemistry students are regularly recognized as WVU Foundation Outstanding Seniors and named to the Order of Augusta.
  • 64% of graduates over the last five years went directly to professional or graduate school

Living Learning Communities

Find a community where you can live with others who share your interests. You will have opportunities to connect with faculty, staff and professionals in areas aligned with your LLC's emphasis. Learn more about WVU Living Learning Communities.

Student Organizations

To explore more organizations, visit WVUEngage where you can browse and manage organizations, find events, and showcase your involvement.

Professional Organizations

Network with professionals in your field as a student member of:

Research and Opportunities

  • Biochemistry students are actively involved in research across campus in programs like the Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) and the Summer Undergraduate Cancer Research Fellowship offered by the WVU Cancer Institute.
  • Undergraduate research is required for students in the ACS track and strongly encouraged for the ASBMB track.
  • Students in the ASBMB track can earn course credit for their research which can be counted as Biochemistry elective hours. Or, they can enroll in a two-semester research capstone series.
  • For students completing the ACS-required research or enrolled in the ASBMB research capstone, the program provides a small budget that can be used for laboratory supplies and/or travel.

Explore Career Paths

How does this degree prepare students for a career?

  1. Biochemists and Biophysicists

    Study the chemical composition or physical principles of living cells and organisms, their electrical and mechanical energy, and related phenomena. May conduct research to further understanding of the complex chemical combinations and reactions involved in metabolism, reproduction, growth, and heredity. May determine the effects of foods, drugs, serums, hormones, and other substances on tissues and vital processes of living organisms.

    Also called: Research Assistant, Research Associate, Research Scientist, Scientist

  2. Biological Technicians

    Assist biological and medical scientists in laboratories. Set up, operate, and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment, monitor experiments, make observations, and calculate and record results. May analyze organic substances, such as blood, food, and drugs.

    Also called: Biological Science Laboratory Technician, Biological Technician, Laboratory Technician, Research Associate

  3. Veterinarians

    Diagnose, treat, or research diseases and injuries of animals. Includes veterinarians who conduct research and development, inspect livestock, or care for pets and companion animals.

    Also called: Associate Veterinarian, Equine Vet (Equine Veterinarian), Veterinarian (VET), Veterinary Medicine Doctor (DVM)

  4. Chemists

    Conduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or experiments in laboratories for quality or process control or to develop new products or knowledge.

    Also called: Analytical Chemist, Chemist, Forensic Scientist, Research Chemist

  5. Biologists

    Research or study basic principles of plant and animal life, such as origin, relationship, development, anatomy, and functions.

    Also called: Biologist, Environmental Analyst, Research Scientist, Scientist

  6. Dentists, General

    Examine, diagnose, and treat diseases, injuries, and malformations of teeth and gums. May treat diseases of nerve, pulp, and other dental tissues affecting oral hygiene and retention of teeth. May fit dental appliances or provide preventive care.

    Also called: Dental Surgery Doctor (DDS), Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD), Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), Family Dentist, General Dentist, Pediatric Dentist

  7. Family Medicine Physicians

    Physicians who diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases and injuries that commonly occur in the general population. May refer patients to specialists when needed for further diagnosis or treatment.

    Also called: Board Certified Family Physician, Family Medicine Physician, Family Physician, Family Practice Medical Doctor (FP MD), Family Practice Physician, Family Practitioner, Medical Doctor (MD), Medical Staff Physician, Physician, Primary Care Physician

Graduates from this major have gone to work at: