Biochemistry Major

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Biochemistry

With a guaranteed $20,000 scholarship, our biochemistry major prepares you for careers in the chemical industry or graduate studies in chemistry, biochem, medicine and more.

Get a competitive edge in the job market with an internship or co-op in local chemical and biotech industries.

Biochemistry Degree at a Glance

Program Type

Major

Mode of Study

On Campus

Co-op/
Internship

Guaranteed

Est. Time

4 Years

Start Terms

Fall, Spring

Accreditation

NECHE

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The Biochemistry Major

In the biochemistry program, you’ll gain key chemical knowledge, lab skills and problem-solving abilities to tackle biological challenges on a molecular level. You’ll also develop creativity, independent thinking and strong communication skills while using advanced lab tools and participating in research on topics like microwave chemistry and smart molecules. 

What You'll Study

As a biochemistry major, you’ll study a mix of chemistry, biology and physics to understand the molecular processes behind living organisms.

Organic Chemistry
Equilibrium and Reactivity
Biophysical Chemistry
Genetics
Cellular Biochemistry
Microbiology
Physics
Calculus

Skills You'll Learn

At Merrimack, biochemistry majors develop a variety of valuable skills that prepare you for both scientific careers and problem-solving in other fields. Some of those skills include:

Research Skills
Laboratory Techniques
Analytical Thinking

Biochemistry B.A. vs B.S.

Curious if a Bachelor of Arts or Sciences is right for you? Let us help guide you towards the right degree for your career path!

  • A Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry provides you with opportunities to focus on social sciences, humanities and other electives and is great for those who want to work in biochemistry in conjunction with other fields, like communication, policy, education or business.
  • A Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry teaches you hands-on skills in research or field studies and is great for those who want to pursue graduate studies, medical school or research careers where a deep understanding of scientific principles and lab techniques is essential.

Applying as a biochemistry major? All you need to choose is “Biochemistry” on your application. Once you enroll, our advising team will get to know you and help you decide on the right classes and degree.

Students working together in chemistry lab

Biochemistry Concentrations

As a biochemistry major, you’ll get to choose one of four concentrations to sculpt your academic journey and prepare you for a career in the biochemistry field. You’ll gain hands-on experience through research projects, internships, and fieldwork at top institutions building both professional connections and the skills needed for graduate programs.

Concentrations Include:

Pre-Medical (MD)

Prepare for medical school admission, including lab work, clinical exposure, and preparation for the MCAT.

Pre-Physician Assistant (PA)

Become a healthcare professional who practices medicine under the guidance of physicians.

Pre-Dental (DMD)

Get the skills needed for dental school and preparing for the DAT.

Pre-PharmD

Take essential science coursework and get the foundational skills needed for pharmacy school.

Interested in healthcare?

This major is perfect for future medical, physician assistant and healthcare professionals!

Biochemistry Courses You'll Take

organic
chemistry I

chm 2210

This course is an introduction to the chemistry of carbon. The concepts of bonding, structure and classification of compounds by functional groups, as well as reactions of aliphatic hydrocarbons, alkyl halides, alcohols and ethers.

Equilibrium
and Reactivity

chm 2410

This chemistry course is for science majors. Topics include aqueous solutions, acids and bases, equilibrium calculations, kinetics, thermodynamics, and electrochemistry. The laboratory offers experiments to supplement the lecture material.

biophysical
chemistry

chm 3570

This course presents the foundations and biological applications of thermodynamics and kinetics. The topics covered include the laws of thermodynamics, phase equilibria, chemical equilibrium, ion transport and more.

See All Courses & Options Available to Biochemistry B.A. Majors

Biochemistry Major Requirements

General Education Requirements

In addition to the major requirements below, you will also need to complete Merrimack’s general education requirements. To see more details about the major, please visit catalog.merrimack.edu.
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See All Courses & Options Available to Biochemistry B.S. Majors

Biochemistry Major Requirements

General Education Requirements

In addition to the major requirements below, you will also need to complete Merrimack’s general education requirements. To see more details about the major, please visit catalog.merrimack.edu.
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Sample Four-Year Schedule - Curriculum Guide

Wondering when you’ll take certain courses? Use the Curriculum Guide—a sample four-year schedule—to get a sense of what your path to graduation looks like.

Biochemistry Students In the Classroom & Beyond

When it comes to career readiness, we believe getting outside of the classroom is key. At Merrimack, you’ll complement your coursework with experiences like guaranteed internships, co-ops, service learning or faculty-led research projects.

Career Outlook: Where Can a Biochemistry Degree Take You?

0 %
Career Outcomes Rate

93% of the undergraduate class of 2024 in Arts & Sciences were either employed, participating in voluntary service or continuing their education within nine months of graduation.

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Experiential Learning

90% of the undergraduate class of 2024 participated in at least one internship, co-op, clinical, practicum or research opportunity while at Merrimack. 

Graduate School

Merrimack, New England School of Law, George Washington University and Boston College are just some of the graduate programs Arts & Sciences graduates are attending.

Jobs with a Biochemistry Degree

Upon completing our program, you’ll be well-equipped to pursue graduate study or a career in biochemistry and related disciplines. Positions may include:

  • Biochemist
  • Biomedical Scientist
  • Chemical Engineer
  • Clinical Researcher
  • Environmental Scientist
  • Toxicologist
  • Biotechnology Researcher
  • Physician Assistant

Where Merrimack Biochemistry Graduates Work & Intern

Tufts
University

Ph.D. Student

Ludlow Family Dentistry

Intern

EMD
Serono

Medical Chemistry Intern

Charles River Laboratories

Intern

Merrimack College

Research Assistant

Cambridge Isotope Laboratory

Intern

Mass College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences

Physician's Assistant Student

Brigham and Women's Hospital

Intern

Beyond the Classroom

See for Yourself

Programs Related to the Biochemistry Major

Explore other areas and where they can take you.

Take the Next Step (We're Here to Help)

At Merrimack, we are ready to meet you where you are and get you where you want to go. And, we make the process simple along the way!

Upcoming Events

four students sitting in a cafe around a laptop

Info Session & Campus Tour

Monday-Friday & Most Saturdays

Attend a 20-minute info session led by an admission counselor and then take a student-led campus tour. Registration is required.

Merrimack College Awards & Recognition

U.S. News & World Report | Best Regional Universities North (2026)

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