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Biochemistry, B.S.
Biochemistry is an exciting field involving pharmaceuticals, human and animal health, and the study of our diverse biological world.
8%
Michigan Job Growth by 2025
Source: EMSI, 2020
Program Overview
The chemistry department goal is to provide rigorous preparation for students whose career paths require expertise in biochemistry. Additionally, faculty members strive to contribute to a chemically literate society through teaching (with classrooms, labs, and research), scholarship, and service.
Students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in biochemistry, a chemistry minor, and a certificate in green chemistry.
Programs are certified by the Committee on Professional Training of the American Chemical Society.
Why Study Biochemistry at Grand Valley?
- Faculty Attention. Beyond the freshman year, our courses become smaller and more intimate. All upper-division courses are taught by Ph.D. chemists with specialized training and research expertise. Chemistry faculty members have won many Outstanding Teacher, Pew Teaching Excellence, and Distinguished Undergraduate Mentoring awards from the university.
- Hands-on Laboratories. Students gain extensive experience in laboratories, conducting experiments, synthesizing new molecules, and operating advanced research-quality instruments.
- Research Experiences There are opportunities for students to contribute to genuine scientific research on novel projects while receiving one-on-one mentoring from faculty members. Many students travel to professional meetings with their faculty mentors to present research findings and network with other researchers.
- Employability. Outstanding demand for graduates in local, regional
and national industries including biotechnology, pharmaceutical and
environmental fields. Students are able to start gaining industry
experience while earning their degrees with paid internship positions.
- Preparation for Further Education. Students are well prepared for
Master's and PhD-level graduate programs leading to a career in
research. Many Biochemistry majors enter medical school, dental
school, veterinary school or other healthcare-related training.
Program Details