Biochemistry

The Biochemistry major introduces students to the application of chemical principles to biological systems across living organisms. Students learn and integrate biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics to understand and solve problems within the spheres of health, medicine, environment, forensics, and food at the molecular level. Salem offers a bachelor of science in biochemistry.

Students in biochemistry develop practical lab skills, work as a team, and conduct research alongside passionate professors who help students succeed. Small class size allows students to have hands-on experience doing biochemistry. In addition, students benefit from internships from various medical schools and graduate schools. Historically, Salem students experience a high acceptance rate to medical, dental, physician assistant, pharmacy, and graduate schools. Students also choose to work in teaching, industry, research, or clinical labs after college.

• Students in the biochemistry program write projects leading to peer-reviewed scientific publications, shadow medical staff, attend annual scientific meetings, and complete summer internships.
• Historically, students have opportunities to complete extensive work-study programs in labs that in some cases have led to post-baccalaureate programs at research universities.

A degree in biochemistry prepares students for postgraduate studies in fields including molecular biology, pharmacology, and biophysics; as well as a range of career paths in areas such as dentistry, medicine, physician assistant school, pharmacology, process engineering, veterinary science, and agricultural science. Biochemists are employed in government, industry, education, medicine, and by private institutions.