Department of Biology & Biochemistry
Biochemistry

Department of Biology & Biochemistry
Biochemistry
- Bachelor of Science
- Undergraduate
Science exists because of God, not instead of God. Discover the miracle of how chemical processes interact to affect all living things. This degree will prepare you for a career in research, medicine, and other scientific and healthcare fields. This program focuses on carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and the processes of these molecules within living things.
This might be the right degree for you if you
- are passionate about serving
- interested in research in a rigorous program
- are interested in a career in research, medicine, or other scientific fields
Why study biochemistry at Northwestern?
This program challenges and prepares students for a job after graduation or graduate school. Northwestern offers off-campus research internships during the summer or for a semester. Organizations include the University of Minnesota, 3M, the County Department of Agriculture, and other biomedical research companies.
Our approach to learning together, teaching others, and applying knowledge in practical internships results in higher rates of employment and acceptance into graduate programs or medical schools.
With a campus so close to metropolitan areas, students take advantage of opportunities in Minnesota’s thriving healthcare industries.
Professors encourage students to explore God’s creation down to the smallest detail to gain a deeper understanding of His power. Students conduct original, leading-edge research under Christian faculty who are experts in their respective scientific fields. Small class sizes give students access to professors who take a personal interest in their futures.
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Careers in biochemistry
There are a variety of career and academic pathways that begin with a degree in biochemistry.
What types of work are related to this degree?
- Basic research
- Applied research
- Laboratory technician/ assistant
- Pharmaceutical sales representative
- Drug manufacturing
- Technical writing for related publications
- Biomedical equipment technician
- Food science or manufacturing
- Testing or product control
- Medical school
- Dental school
- Chiropractic school
- Physical Therapy school
- Veterinary school
- Public Health
Who employs people with this degree?
- Healthcare providers
- Biotechnology companies
- College or university laboratories
- Drug companies
- Food processing or packaging companies
- State/federal agencies such as the NIH, FDA, EPA, National
- Science Foundation, etc.
- Public health departments
- Hospital and commercial medical laboratories
- Forensic testing facilities
- Cosmetics manufacturing
- Zoos
Strategies for success:
- Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, biology, or chemistry qualifies one for laboratory technician, research assistant, or other entry-level positions
- Take a course in grant writing; researchers often need to apply for grants to fund their research.
- Gain competencies in computers and mathematics.
- Read scientific journals to stay current on relevant issues in the field, and join related professional organizations to network and build contacts.
- As an undergraduate, seek laboratory experiences such as research projects, volunteering with professors, summer jobs, or internships.
- Schedule informational interviews to learn about the profession and specific career paths.
- Participate in research programs sponsored by organizations like the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health.
- Become familiar with the specific entrance exam for graduate or professional schools in your area of interest.
of graduates noted their coursework was relevant to their job
a relatively unknown marine bacterium with Dr. Joanna Klein and assist with research and annotations
of seniors are able to discuss their major through a biblical worldview
What will I learn?
You will learn to think critically, research, and perform experiments to explore a range of scientific disciplines, including genetics, microbiology, forensics, and medicine.

Still have questions about this program or how to apply?
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Discover the Department of Biology & Biochemistry
Professors at Northwestern are focused on their students first. Our faculty include experts in their respective fields who want to help you grow in your faith while you earn your degree.
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