Skip to main content
Eberly College of Arts & Sciences Department of Biology
Visit WVU Request Info Apply Now

Biochemistry, B.S.

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.

Jump to Section

Program Overview

Program Delivery: On-campus

An interdisciplinary science, biochemistry is the study of the ways that living organisms make and use molecules in their cells, organs, and ecosystems. We also learn how molecules from the environment (food, drugs, toxins) improve or interfere with cell functions.

Biochemists create and test new foods and pharmaceutical drugs. They often work in research and healthcare to understand and support the health of individuals and the environment.

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 (School of Agriculture and Food Systems, 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 available from both colleges.
  • Field trips to major research, healthcare, or teaching facilities to tour and learn about internship and career opportunities.
  • 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

  • Our 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.
  • Experiential learning (research, internships, teaching, etc.) is required of all Biochemistry majors.
  • Students can earn course credit for research, teaching, internships, and other experiences through the experiential learning elective. Advisers can help students sustain their experiences over several semesters, or identify paid opportunities in the summer.
  • Connect with the Undergraduate Research, Education Abroad and Pre-Health Professional Development offices for even more opportunities.

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: Analytical Research Chemist, Biochemist, Biophysics Researcher, Scientist

  2. Biological Technicians

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

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

  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: Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), Emergency Veterinarian (Emergency Vet), Small Animal Veterinarian (Small Animal 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, Research Chemist, Scientist

  5. Biologists

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

    Also called: Biologist, Research Biologist, 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: Dentist, Family Dentist, General Dentist, Pediatric Dentist

  7. Family Medicine Physicians

    Diagnose, treat, and provide preventive care to individuals and families across the lifespan. May refer patients to specialists when needed for further diagnosis or treatment.

    Also called: Family Physician, Family Practice Physician (FP Physician), Medical Doctor (MD), Physician