Biochemistry
Embark on a transformative journey into the intricate world of molecules and life’s building blocks
The biochemistry program prepares students for positions in fields related to biochemistry in industry and government, as well as for graduate study in biochemistry, molecular biology and health-related professions such as medicine, pharmacy and dentistry. Students have the opportunity to learn to understand and solve problems at the interface of chemistry and biology through courses featuring active learning techniques and hands-on laboratory experiences.
Matt Conroy ’26 | Biochemistry major, Physiology minor
The best thing about biochemistry is the balance between biology and chemistry classes. Biochemistry focuses on skills in both biology and chemistry and creates a connection between the two. I also find the support from other biochemistry major students unwavering. Ultimately, my goal is to go to medical school; the biochemistry major is properly preparing me for this step in my career.”
Biochemists (PhD level): Median pay is $102,000 per year
Chemists (bachelor level): Median pay is $79,700 per year
Biological technician (bachelor level): Median pay is $48,000 per year
Medical Scientist (PhD level): Median pay is $95,000 per year
Physician (MD level): Median pay is $208,000 per year
All statistics from U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS
Required Courses
| Course Number | Course Name | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| BIO 121 | General Biology I | 4 |
| BIO 122 | General Biology II | 4 |
| BIO 316 | Genetics | 3 |
| BIO 320 | Introduction to Neuroscience | 3 |
| BIO 380 | Molecular Biology | 4 |
| BIO 409 | Cell Biology | 4 |
| BIO 470 | Endocrinology | 3 |
| BIO 472 | Immunology | 4 |
| CHEM 121 | General Chemistry I | 4 |
| CHEM 122 | General Chemistry II | 4 |
| CHEM 211 | Analytical Chemistry | 4 |
| CHEM 301 | Organic Chemistry I | 4 |
| CHEM 302 | Organic Chemistry II | 4 |
| CHEM 311 | Instrumental Analysis | 4 |
| CHEM 317 | Inorganic Chemistry | 3 |
| CHEM 321 | Physical Chemistry I | 4 |
| CHEM 322 | Physical Chemistry II | 3 |
| CHEM 331 | Biochemistry I | 4 |
| CHEM 332 | Biochemistry II | 4 |
| MATH 201 | Calculus and Analytic Geometry I | 4 |
| PHYS 111 | College Physics I | 4 |
| PHYS 121 | General Physics I | 4 |
| TOTAL HOURS | 83 |
Bryan Davis, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Chemistry
The Honors Program is a multidisciplinary Honors Program for students who are curious, creative, self-motivated, and eager to engage in their education and community.
Not only do Honors Program students partake in honors courses that emphasize collaboration, service, and communication, but they will also have the opportunity to develop aspects of the program based on their own interests and goals. By participating in the Honors Program you will acquire the tools, knowledge and experiences necessary to make meaningful contributions to your community – whether it be globally, locally, or specific to your life’s work. You will have access to unique courses, exciting experiences and a community of peers and faculty who never stop asking questions and striving for excellence.
The Pre-Health Program is designed to help guide students develop as competitive applicants to graduate schools that match their desired profession and their academic and pre-professional profile.
Pre-Health Advising at Shenandoah University consists of in-person advising sessions either in a group or individual setting that seek to provide guidance to students interested in pursuing a career in within the health professions.
Pre-Health Students follow one of these tracks at Shenandoah:
Make studying abroad the highlight of your college experience! Whether you go for a year, a semester, or just a few weeks. You will never forget learning in another culture! The Center for International Programs is here to help you plan your study abroad experience. Start your planning early to ensure the courses you complete abroad count toward your degree and you graduate on time.
Global Experiential Learning (GEL) Program
The Global Experiential Learning (GEL) Program offers Shenandoah students a short-term, faculty-led, study-abroad experience for academic credit. These short-term, credit-bearing, faculty-led programs are offered winter break, spring break, and during the summer. If a course is not within your major, it might be used as an elective.
Study Abroad
Shenandoah University is a member of the International Student Exchange Program (ISEP), a global network of 300 universities. This partnership allows students to study for a full semester or year at other member campuses abroad. By working closely with their academic advisors and the study abroad advisor, students can take classes taught in English abroad while receiving Shenandoah credit.
Shenandoah University also maintains direct partnerships with several universities around the world. These relationships allow students from SU to study abroad as exchange students and students from these universities to study at SU. All partner universities offer courses taught in English.
Shenandoah University works on rolling admissions and accepts applications throughout the year. Applications are reviewed individually and holistically.
Submit your application, review required admission materials, and find our admissions standards.