The Biochemistry BS Program is similar to the Chemistry BS, but emphasizes additional advanced coursework in biochemistry and biological sciences, including an advanced biochemistry laboratory course. This program also provides excellent preparation for students who aim to work as professional scientists and/or pursue advanced degrees in Biochemistry and related research fields. Chemistry and Biochemistry are rapidly advancing disciplines that study the properties of matter, and use this knowledge to solve pressing societal problems, including energy, sustainability and human health. Making advances in these areas requires a deep understanding of the chemistry and biochemistry, but in addition, often requires learning how to work in interdisciplinary teams, or on projects that extend beyond the boundaries of traditional chemistry and biochemistry. Chemistry and Biochemistry are allied molecular sciences. Chemistry studies the properties and chemical transformations of matter in all forms and environments, and creates new chemical forms and properties. Biochemistry studies chemical and physicochemical processes and substances that occur within living organisms. These two molecular science disciplines consider both theoretical questions (why) as well as practical problem solving (how).
An Undergraduate degree in chemistry or biochemistry prepares students for a wide variety of career paths in industry, medicine, academia, Many UMD degree recipients are employed in the chemical, energy, food/agriculture, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology industries where they develop new medicines, consumer and agricultural products, advanced materials, or use their analytical skills to evaluate product or environmental quality. Others obtain positions in government labs (e.g. NIH, FDA, NIST, EPA, NRL, etc.). Students interested in careers as science educators can earn K-12 teaching certification through the UMD College of Education concurrently with their Chemistry and Biochemistry studies.
