undergraduate
Biochemistry and molecular biology
Best schools with biochemistry and molecular biology
What is a biochemistry and molecular biology major?
Biochemistry and molecular biology students study the chemistry of living systems, their fundamental chemical substances and reactions, and their chemical pathways and information transfer systems, with particular reference to carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. It includes instruction in bio-organic chemistry, protein chemistry, bioanalytical chemistry, bioseparations, regulatory biochemistry, enzymology, hormonal chemistry, calorimetry, and research methods and equipment operation.
of students said a highlight of this major was the fascinating subject.
of students found this major to be difficult.
of students said they were motivated to select this major because it fit their passion & interest.
of students and alumni plan on being or are currently employed in an occupation related to this major.
of students said difficult exams/assessments were a challenging aspect of the major.
How much do biochemistry and molecular biology majors make?
median average salary
$90,000/yr
The national average salary for biochemistry and molecular biology graduates in the United States is $90,000 per year. Those in the top 10 percent make over $300,000 a year, while the bottom 10 percent make under $30,000 a year. While salary ranges can vary by role, industry, and location, biochemistry and molecular biology graduates typically make between $53,000 and $156,000 per year.
How popular is biochemistry and molecular biology as a major?
Each year, around 11,800 students obtain a bachelor’s degree and around 10 students obtain an associate degree in biochemistry and molecular biology. In 2021, 12,376 students received a bachelor's degree and 13 students received an associate degree. This is 2% more biochemistry and molecular biology majors than there were in 2020. Biochemistry and molecular biology is one of the most popular majors within biology.
Advice from biochemistry and molecular biology majors
Share your experienceTo students pursuing Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, my advice is to stay curious and proactive in your studies. Develop a strong foundation in both chemistry and biology, as this will be crucial for understanding complex biochemical processes. Take advantage of research opportunities early on, as hands-on experience is invaluable and can significantly enhance your learning. Don't hesitate to seek mentorship from professors and engage with peers in study groups. Additionally, stay updated with the latest scientific literature and advancements in the field, as biochemistry and molecular biology are rapidly evolving disciplines. Lastly, balance your rigorous academic work with self-care to maintain a healthy and productive lifestyle.
Don't be afraid to ask questions! This subject can be very complex at times and you should in no way expect everything you learn to click right away. Ask your professors/TAs to reexplain things in different ways or offer practice problems!
Go to office hours, study, ask questions, and find what works for you. Everyone is different in terms of studying, working on assignments, learning, and more, so play around with different methods and tools, and find what works for you. A lot of the concepts are hard to remember and there is a lot of memorization, so make flashcards, study, and make study groups or meet with your professor to have different perspectives/ways to learn. Don't be discouraged if you fail an exam or class; this major is difficult and no one said it would be easy, but don't let that stop you. My biggest advice for students in this major would be to have fun and be positive, even though some days it will be hard, and remember your why (why did you choose this major and why did/do you want to graduate with this degree?). Stay motivated by taking some you time, but also stay on top of assignments, homework, and exams because it will pile up quickly and you will be swamped.
Study in a way that works for you, not just copying lecture notes. Make flashcards, use stoplight studying, reward systems. It's a lot of memorizing functions and purposes.
That priority is key and to stay on top of every assignment that is given. Always try to get assinments done 1 or 2 before the class depending on the deadline. And always use the resources of the college, your tuition pays for it anyway.
