Bachelor of science
Biochemistry
Develop laboratory skills and scientific expertise to prepare for careers in medicine, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and research.
Is This Program for Me?
Are you fascinated by the chemical processes of life? Do you want to understand how molecules drive everything from cell function to human health? Are you preparing for a career in medicine, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, or scientific research? As a “central science,” biochemistry bridges chemistry and biology, giving you the knowledge and skills to tackle some of today’s most exciting and important scientific challenges.
The Biochemistry major is a great fit if you want to:
- Prepare for careers in medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, or optometry
- Work in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industries
- Conduct laboratory research on cutting-edge topics in life sciences
- Study the molecular foundations of health and disease
- Pursue graduate study in chemistry, biochemistry, or neuroscience
What Makes Us Different?
Samford’s Biochemistry program offers the personal attention of a small department combined with the breadth of research and facilities found in larger programs.
Small Class Sizes & Individual Mentoring
Close relationships with faculty allow students to receive personalized academic and career guidance.
Strong Health Care Preparation
Faculty expertise includes extensive experience preparing students for medical, dental, optometry, and pharmacy school admissions.
Interdisciplinary Focus
Biochemistry is the “central science”—students engage with topics across chemistry, biology, neuroscience, and materials science.Research Opportunities
Students have access to modern laboratories and are encouraged to participate in faculty-led research projects, often leading to presentations and publications.Shape Your Academic Journey
The Biochemistry curriculum offers a strong foundation in chemistry, biology, and physics, with opportunities to explore advanced topics and conduct independent research.
Students will
- Develop a working knowledge of biochemical processes that govern living systems
- Gain hands-on experience in laboratory research and experimental design
- Build skills in critical thinking, scientific communication, and data analysis
- Prepare for the MCAT, DAT, OAT, GRE, or other graduate and professional entrance exams
- Engage in interdisciplinary learning across the sciences
Prepare to Succeed
Graduates of the Biochemistry program are highly competitive for professional programs and employment in the biomedical sciences. The program emphasizes both academic rigor and practical laboratory skills, preparing students for a wide range of career paths.
Career Opportunities
- Physician (MD/DO)
- Dentist
- Optometrist
- Pharmacist
- Research scientist in academia or industry
- Biotechnology and pharmaceutical professional
- University or secondary educator
- Intellectual property or patent attorney
- Environmental scientist
- Public health specialist
Career Preparation
- Faculty mentorship on graduate and professional school applications
- Research opportunities with potential for publications and conference presentations
- Preparation for success in graduate study, medical school, and beyond
- Career development support for entry into biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries
“As a professor, I hope to inspire the next generation of chemists as the faculty in Samford's Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry have inspired me.”—Sydney Bottcher, Goldwater Scholar, 2021
