Biochemistry Major

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

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

Merrimack College’s biochemistry major prepares you for careers in the chemical industry or grad studies in chemistry, biochem, chemical engineering, medicine, dentistry or veterinary science.

Biochemistry Degree at a Glance

Program Type

Major

Mode of Study

On Campus

Co-op

Guaranteed

Est. Time

4 Years

Start Terms

Fall, Spring

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Spring Open House

Tuesday, April 22, 2025

from 1:00 pm

to 4:00 pm

At our Spring Open House, you'll attend academic breakout sessions, connect with members of our community, and take a tour of our beautiful New England campus.

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:

Quantitative Skills

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.

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.

Download Curriculum Guide

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.

"I worked with St. Ann’s Home in Methuen, MA and some of my responsibilities included caring for children of varying ages, mental abilities, and familial statuses. I also aided children in performing individual routines successfully and safely, along with recording daily reports for each child.”

Anthony DiSanto '24Internship: St. Ann's Home, Methuen
Psychology Major
Criminology & Criminal Justice Major

“At Windrush Farms, I mainly performed psychoeducation, which is educating the CEO on aspects regarding their population at the farm, including things like accommodations, sensory overload, and my specialty demographic of ADHD and autism.”

Bryssa Dos Santos '22Internship: Windrush Farm, Boxford
Psychology Major

“During my internship with CREST Collaborative, I was exposed to a whole new population I never worked with before. Being at this site showed me the hardships working in a school setting can bring, but most importantly, how much of a positive role model we are in these settings.”

Riley Keene '24INTERNSHIP: CREST Collaborative, Andover
Psychology Major

“I learned how to work effectively with a diverse population, understanding the unique needs and backgrounds of each participant. This experience taught me that no day is ever the same and reinforced the importance of treating each day as a brand new start.”

Grace Pimental '24INTERNSHIP: Northeast Arc, Andover
Psychology Major

Career Outlook: Where Can a Biochemistry Degree Take You?

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Career Outcomes Rate

94% of the undergraduate class of 2023 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 2023 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 humanities and related disciplines. Studio art major jobs have a diverse range of career options. Positions may include: