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Biochemistry, BS

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.

Your Degree Plan The WVU Difference Learn by Doing Careers and Outcomes Meet Your Community Places and Spaces Frequently Asked Questions 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.

Take advantage of special options related to this major:

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 (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
Scholarships

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

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Learn by Doing

Learning happens outside the classroom. Get involved.

  • 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.

Before graduating, all undergraduates in this major complete an academic project (or "capstone") to demonstrate their research, communication and critical thinking skills. Projects in WVU's Biochemistry major have included:

  • Impact of different omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on brain fatty acid composition, gene expression, oxidative stress, and inflammation in young female rats.
  • O-Methyltransferases in Anisaldehyde Biosynthesis of Strawberry Flowers.
  • Probing the morphological and mechanical changes in a C. elegans model of Huntington's Disease.
  • Testing of a metabolic engineering strategy in plants.
  • The effect of HeatResis® on heat tolerance in spinach.

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:

Attending college will prepare you for many things. The Biochemistry major will give you the following skills:

  • Science process skills - the ability to design, implement, analyze, and present experiments.
  • Interpersonal skills - teamwork, communication, leadership, cultural competence.
  • Specific lab/technical skills - including (but not limited to!) PCR, DNA sequencing, cell culture, NMR, protein analysis.

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: $172,790

Possible job titles include: Dentist, Family Dentist, General Dentist, Pediatric Dentist.

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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: $103,650

Possible job titles include: Analytical Research Chemist, Biochemist, Biophysics Researcher, Scientist.

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Biologists

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

Has a Bright Outlook , May require a Graduate Degree

Median Salary: $93,330

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

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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: $84,150

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

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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.

Has a Bright Outlook

Median Salary: $52,000

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

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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: $125,510

Possible job titles include: Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), Emergency Veterinarian (Emergency Vet), Small Animal Veterinarian (Small Animal Vet), Veterinary Medicine Doctor (DVM).

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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.

May require a Graduate Degree

Median Salary: $238,380

Possible job titles include: Family Physician, Family Practice Physician (FP Physician), Medical Doctor (MD), Physician.

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Meet Your Community

The Biochemistry family will inspire and support you.

  • “My favorite thing about the biochemistry program is being able to study two of my favorite subjects while being supported by so many great faculty members. I have learned more about biology, chemistry, and myself at WVU than I could have ever imagined.”
    Jacob Devilder
  • “I chose biochemistry as my major because of my enjoyment in my high school biology and chemistry classes. I didn't want to commit to just one chemistry or biology major, so I chose the major that fit the best of both worlds.”
    Jonathan Nguyen
  • “As a biochemistry major with a minor in molecular medicine at WVU, I’ve loved getting involved both inside and outside the classroom. From playing club volleyball and joining Delta Gamma to diving into exciting research projects, WVU has given me endless opportunities to learn, grow, and truly find my passion.”
    Abby Ruth
  • “I chose biochemistry because I wanted to do something flexible that would allow me to work in medicine in the future. I knew I wanted to pursue a degree in STEM, but I wasn't sure if I wanted to pursue veterinary or human medicine. Biochemistry is so versatile that I can pursue a program in either field and can make that post-undergraduate school decision later.”
    Avery Smith

  • Dana Huebert-Lima

    Professional highlights:

    • Director of the Intercollegiate Biochemistry Program (2024-present)
    • Associate Chair of Undergraduate Studies in Biology (2014-2018, 2023-present)
    • Nicholas Evans Award for Excellence in Academic Advising (2018)
    • Foundation Award and Eberly College Award for Excellence in Teaching (2019)
    • Director of the Honors College EXCEL program (2018-2021)

  • Carolyn Kitchens

    Professional highlights:

    • Academic Adviser
    • Courses commonly taught: Biochemistry 1, Cellular and Molecular Biological Methods, Biochemistry of Therapeutics
    • Co-adviser of the WVU Biochemistry Club (2021-Present)
    • John R. Taylor Memorial Award in the Liberal Arts for Excellence in Teaching and Research Across the Liberal Arts (Bethany College, 2016)
    • Adviser of the Year Award (Bethany College, 2015)

  • Cassandra Orndorff

    Professional highlights:

    • Academic Adviser
    • Courses commonly taught: Biochemistry 2 with lab, first-year seminar
    • Co-adviser of WVU Biochemistry Club
    • Alum of the WVU Biochemistry program

FAQs

Common questions and answers about Biochemistry.

  1. Students have access to courses, research, scholarships, and academic resources from both Davis and Eberly Colleges. You can conduct research in human systems, animals, plants, fungi, or microbes with health, agricultural, and environmental applications.

    • Post-baccalaureate health professions programs (medical, dental, optometry, veterinary, physician assistant),
    • Master's and doctoral programs in health, agricultural, or environmental science.
    • Jobs right out of college in industry, government, or academia.

  3. Students can conduct research on all 3 areas of the WVU campus, for credit or pay or as a volunteer. Your academic adviser can help you find opportunities that are a good fit for your interests as early as your first semester on campus.

  4. All students take the same first-year seminar and introductory biology course. Most students also take a general education course, an introductory chemistry course, and math course, depending on their previous preparation. In total, students take between 14-16 credits in their first semester.

Places and Spaces

Learn about all of the places and spaces you'll learn in.

Life Sciences - 39204-S-JFS-0024-XX

Life Sciences Building

As the home of the WVU's biology and psychology programs, the Life Sciences Building has technologically advanced classrooms and laboratories, as well as a greenhouse, mental health clinic, faculty offices, and common areas.

Students walking to Ag Sciences - fall

Agricultural Sciences Building

Agricultural Sciences houses classrooms, computer labs, and numerous teaching and research laboratories that support the Davis College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

Facilities Thumbnail - Animal Science Farm

Animal Science Farm

The 408-acre farm boasts state-of-the-art poultry research facilities, as well as cattle operations. The farm is also the site of groundbreaking research initiatives in poultry feed and small ruminant production.

Explore the Animal Science Farm
STEM Learning Center - 40624-S-BFP-0746-XX-(1)

Chemistry Learning Center / STEM Learning Center

The CLC offers resources like free evening tutoring, chemistry teaching faculty office hours, and problem solving videos by chemistry faculty. Next door, the SLC (pictured) is open for STEM academic assistance, a place to study, and an area to relax and recharge between classes.

Explore the Chemistry Learning Center / STEM Learning Center
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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

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