B.S. Biochemistry
The study of biochemistry is the study of life at its most fundamental level. Using chemical principles to solve biological problems can illuminate an incredible amount of knowledge about our world.
Biochemistry at Concordia University, Nebraska blends biology and chemistry by using molecular principles to investigate essential processes in living systems. Here, the biochemistry degree combines the fundamental aspects of
- biology,
- chemistry,
- mathematics and
- physics
in interdisciplinary collaboration.
You’ll receive a broad background in the natural sciences that prepares you for a variety of post-graduation options, including research positions and graduate studies in biochemistry, professional health disciplines, biotechnology and the chemical and material sciences industries.
Position yourself at the forefront of integrative scientific discovery!
Program Highlights
WHY STUDY BIOCHEMISTRY AT CONCORDIA?
The biochemistry program at Concordia University, Nebraska engages in the advancement of the biochemical sciences in the modern world, while integrating science and faith together, rather than seeing them as opposing ideas.
- Courses utilize state-of-the-art instruments and tools used in the latest biochemistry research in the field.
- The biochemistry major offers an alternative to the demanding class load required by a biology-chemistry double major.
- Biochemistry offers an interdisciplinary degree for those students hoping to pursue studies across both fields.
- The biochemistry program allows students greater freedom to explore a wide array of courses and areas within the liberal arts curriculum, as well as providing opportunity to further explore additional courses of interest within the sciences.
MEET OUR EXPERT FACULTY
As experts in biochemistry, our faculty and instructors bring years of experience to the classroom.
Meet our students
“There are a few benefits to being at a private Lutheran School with a great science program. The classes are tough, the professors are great, and the program has shown me that we can use science to look at God’s creation, rather than against God’s creation. ”
Jacob Gosnell
Hershey, Neb.
Accreditation
Concordia University, Nebraska is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Micah Scholars Pre-Health Scholars Program
Micah Pre-Health Scholars is designed to help students be successful in their healthcare vocations through hands-on experiences, community support and graduate or professional school preparation.
Degree Goals
A biochemistry program graduate from Concordia University, Nebraska will be able to:
- Understand the complexities of the biology and chemistry of life.
- Facilitate creative problem solving in the biochemical sciences and in other areas of professional and personal life.
- Foster a continuing discourse about biochemistry and how it integrates with and relates to faith.
Natural Sciences Minors
- Agricultural Science
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Environmental Studies
- Physics
Career Outcomes
Biochemist
- Understand how drugs, hormones and foods can impact living organisms
- Work in a lab, collecting data and conducting research
Pharmacist
- Work with a healthcare team to advise health professionals on proper medication doses, availability and side effects
- Help patients achieve the best medication treatment outcomes
Materials Scientist
- Research and study the structures and chemical properties of various natural and synthetic or composite metals, alloys, ceramics, semiconductors, polymers and glass
- Find new ways to strengthen or create materials for use in a variety of products and applications
FAQs
How do I decide between a major in biochemistry, chemistry or biology?
If you’re interested in career fields that bridge the intersection between biology and chemistry, then you might want to consider a major in biochemistry. Students who major in biochemistry, chemistry or biology at Concordia Nebraska find themselves well-suited for graduate programs in the sciences, medical school, or work in biochemistry or biotechnology labs, as teachers or in other science-based careers.
Choosing between a major in biochemistry, chemistry and biology ultimately comes down to which major includes the courses you are most interested in taking and best serve your ultimate career goals; meeting with your advisor regularly can help guide which major is the right choice for you.
What can I do with a biochemistry degree?
There are many options for careers once you’ve earned your biochemistry degree. If you’re interested in a career in biochemistry research, you might work for a government or private company that specializes in health and beauty care, chemical manufacturing, food and drink production or medical instrument or pharmaceutical development. There are also biochemical opportunities for careers in agricultural research, pharmacology, education, forensic science and more.
Nationwide, biochemistry is one of the most popular majors for students going into medical school and is particularly well-suited for students going to dental school.
Do I need a graduate degree to find a career in biochemistry?
Further education isn’t necessary for many careers in biochemistry, so the level of education you need will depend on what you want to do with your biochemistry degree.
If you plan on using your biochemistry degree as a research scientist in a laboratory or field setting, for instance, you may not need a graduate degree, though a master’s or doctorate degree can help you earn a higher salary and progress more quickly in your chosen biochemistry field. If you’re more interested in using your biochemistry degree in a career in the medical field, or to do research and teach biochemistry at a university level, you will likely need a higher degree.
Related Programs
Biology
With a degree in biology from Concordia Nebraska, you will be prepared to begin a career in the biological sciences right away, or to continue your education in graduate, medical, dental or veterinary school. As a biology major at Concordia, you learn essential skills such as time management and mastering complex material, as well as studying more in-depth topics such as microbiology, human anatomy and immunology to give you the knowledge you need to be successful in the field of biology.
Chemistry
A degree in chemistry from Concordia University, Nebraska expands your understanding of general chemistry and gives you the practical, hands-on experience you need to continue a career in chemistry after graduation. Your classroom and chemistry lab experience will help you on your journey to use your passion for chemistry to serve in healthcare, industry, research and more.
Physics
Whether you want to explore the mysteries of antimatter, aid in the development of laser technologies or discover new energy sources, Concordia University, Nebraska’s physics program prepares you to pursue careers and graduate degrees in a variety of disciplines, from astronomy to engineering to computer science. You will gain a scientific foundation through a variety of interactive labs, lectures and classwork to make you a professional in the field of physics.
1 Recent graduates attending graduate school or employed within six months of graduation.
2Average Class Size for Representative Subject Most Aligned with Major, Over Last 5 Years.