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Biochemistry, BS

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.

Your Degree Plan The WVU Difference Learn by Doing Careers and Outcomes Admission Requirements Tuition and Aid Take the Next Steps

Your Degree Plan

Intro

Aerial view of Martin and Woodburn Halls

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.

Tailor this major to your interests by focusing your coursework in one of these areas:

Tailor this major to your interests by focusing your coursework in one of these areas:

  • American Chemical Society (ACS) Track

    This track is more chemistry-focused; students are required to take calculus-based physics, two upper level chemistry classes and conduct research in the Department of Chemistry.

  • American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) Track

    This track is more biology-focused; students can take either calculus or trig-based physics, have an additional molecular biology course and a third biochemistry course.

Take advantage of special options related to this major:

  • Honors

    Expand your curiosity — and enhance your curriculum — through the WVU Honors College. Two programs are offered: Honors Foundations for first- and second-year students and Honors EXCEL for third- and fourth-year students.

    Explore Honors

The WVU Difference

What sets this program apart from its competitors?

  • 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
Scholarships

93% of WVU freshmen receive grants or scholarships (2023-24).

Learn more

Learn by Doing

Learning happens outside the classroom. Get involved.

  • 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.

Connect with other students who share your academic interests as a member of:

View all of the student organizations you can join.

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

Live, study and pursue outside-the-classroom learning in a residence hall community that shares your interests:

Outside of the Evansdale Crossing building.

What you learn outside of the classroom is just as important as what you learn during class. We’ll help you follow your curiosity.

Careers and Outcomes

How does this degree prepare students for a career?

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.

May require a Graduate Degree

Median Salary: $166,300

Possible job titles include: Dental Surgery Doctor (DDS), Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD), Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), Family Dentist, General Dentist, Pediatric Dentist.

Explore Career

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.

Has a Bright Outlook , May require a Graduate Degree

Median Salary: $107,460

Possible job titles include: Research Assistant, Research Associate, Research Scientist, Scientist.

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Biologists

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

May require a Graduate Degree

Median Salary: $91,100

Possible job titles include: Biologist, Environmental Analyst, Research Scientist, Scientist.

Explore Career

Chemists

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

Has a Bright Outlook

Median Salary: $84,680

Possible job titles include: Analytical Chemist, Chemist, Forensic Scientist, Research Chemist.

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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.

Has a Bright Outlook

Median Salary: $51,430

Possible job titles include: Biological Science Laboratory Technician, Biological Technician, Laboratory Technician, Research Associate.

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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.

Has a Bright Outlook , May require a Graduate Degree

Median Salary: $119,100

Possible job titles include: Associate Veterinarian, Equine Vet (Equine Veterinarian), Veterinarian (VET), Veterinary Medicine Doctor (DVM).

Explore Career

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.

May require a Graduate Degree

Median Salary: $224,640

Possible job titles include: 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.

Explore Career

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to WVU's Biochemistry major, first-time freshmen must meet WVU's first-time freshman admission requirements. Interested in transferring? Review the transfer admission requirements.

Tuition and Aid

How much does Biochemistry at WVU cost? And how can you save?

Tuition and Fees

Estimated rates are available on our tuition website. Anyone who is not a current West Virginia resident, including international students, will be charged non-resident rates.

View Tuition and Fees

Scholarships

Estimate your eligibility for merit scholarships at WVU Morgantown.

Find Scholarships

Net Price Calculator

Estimate your cost of attendance and eligibility for financial aid and scholarships at any WVU System campus.

Visit the Net Price Calculator

Ways to Save

Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending WVU in addition to university scholarships.

Financial Aid

The most important step toward funding your future with financial aid for the Biochemistry major is submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA.

How to Complete the FAFSA

Ohio Tuition Reciprocity

As the result of a special agreement, students from Ohio who are fully admitted to Biochemistry can enroll at WVU and pay in-state tuition rates. Students must be admitted to both the University and this major.

Learn More

Transfer Articulation Agreements

To simplify the transfer process, we have formal agreements with certain institutions. These agreements outline the courses you should take to prepare for transferring to WVU.

Review the full list of transfer articulation agreements to see if your institution is listed.

Learn How to Transfer Course Credits

Ready to take the next step?

Learn how to join the WVU family.

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