Biochemistry Career Progression

Biochemistry and Chemical Engineering are two college majors that I find interesting. Because of my interest, I researched what each major was, the classes that a student in each major would have to take, and what career opportunities that each major provides. Biochemistry is a branch of science that involves chemistry and living beings. The chemical processes and reactions that occur within living beings is fundamental part of this branch of science. The Biochemical Society gives a better definition of this field:“Biochemistry is the branch of science that explores the chemical processes within and related to living organisms.” Biochemistry is considered a subdivision of two branches of science: biology and chemistry; the skills and techniques that are used in this field place emphasis on chemistry.

Fayetteville State University does not offer biochemistry program. The undergraduate curriculum of biochemistry includes a variety of mathematics, physics, biology, and chemistry courses. At Elon University, another university in North Carolina that offers a biochemistry program, the biochemistry curriculum includes courses such as toxicology, general physics, and immunology. An undergraduate degree in biochemistry gives me access to several types of careers.

The degree also gives me access to jobs in the biotechnology industry. Combined with other fields, a biochemistry degree can lead to different jobs and programs. There are opportunities for biochemistry majors in education, journalism, computer sciences, and law. The annual pay in biochemistry is high. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in May 2011, the mean annual wage for biochemists was $87,640. A biochemistry degree also can also give graduates access to specialized professional programs in genetic counselling, forensic sciences, biomedical engineering, and medical lab/imaging