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Discover the Science Behind Life 

Dive into the fascinating world where chemistry meets biology. Fredonia’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry is certified by the American Chemical Society and housed in Fredonia's $60 million Science Center. Our Biochemistry Degree equips you with the technical and analytical skills needed to solve some of today’s biggest challenges in medicine, agriculture, and industry. With hands-on research and the flexibility to choose between tracks including: general chemistry, organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, inorganic chemistry and physical chemistry. Earning your degree prepares you for graduate school, medical school, careers in biochemical research, and beyond..

What You'll Gain

  • Dual Focus – Choose between a chemical emphasis for molecular study or a biological emphasis to solve physiological problems.
  • Hands-On Research – Start conducting impactful research as early as your sophomore year on projects like anti-cancer drugs or environmental pollutants.
  • American Chemical Society Certified – Graduate with a biochemistry degree from a program recognized for its academic rigor and professional standards.
  • National Exam Success – Consistently outperform national averages on core course exams required for all students.
  • Career Flexibility – Pursue diverse careers in pharmaceuticals, environmental science, teaching, or even patent law.

Career Opportunities for Biochemistry

  • Biotech Executive
  • Environmental Analyst
  • Patent Lawyer
  • Pharmacist
  • Research & Development
  • Chemist
  • Medical Doctor
  • Pharmaceutical Research
  • Quality Control Analyst
  • Science Teacher/Professor
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What are all the required and elective courses offered to obtain these degrees?

CHEM 481 Medicinal Chemistry

Focuses on discovery and development of new therapeutic agents. It involves chemical aspects of identification, and then systematic alteration of lead molecules in the development of a more effective drug suitable for therapeutic use.

BIOL 419 Genes and Genomes

The course will focus on the study of DNA and genes from the paper by Watson and Crick to the Human Genome Project. The genetic and molecular approaches used to identify genes and the impact of genome study on society and current scientific research will be discussed.

CHEM 465 Advanced Experimental Biochemistry

State-of-the art biochemical and molecular techniques are taught within the hands-on, laboratory-based course. Potential topics include the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), oligonucleotide synthesis, DNA/protein sequencing and analysis (BLAST, DNASIS), pulse-field gel electrophoresis, gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR).

Why Biochemistry at Fredonia?

Students in a lab. Students with a biochemistry major make the most of their education as they prepare for amazing careers.

Design Your Degree

20+ Advanced courses across Biochemistry and Chemistry - You choose!

Biochemistry students working in a lab. Getting a biochemistry degree prepares  students for a multitude of amazing and rewarding careers.

Research from Day One

Do real research as an undergrad. Launch your research career while others wait their turn.

Biochem student in a lab. When you earn a biochemistry degree, you set yourself up for success.

Pro-Grade Equipment

Master industry-standard tools in our updated labs, training on the same equipment you'll use in your career.

Chemists and Materials Scientists

Chemists and materials scientists research and analyze the chemical properties of substances to develop new materials, products, or knowledge.

  • Median Salary: $87,180 per year
  • Job Outlook 2023-2033: 8% growth
  • Typical Entry-Level Education: Bachelor's degree

Medical Scientists

Medical scientists conduct research aimed at improving overall human health.

  • Median Salary: $100,890 per year
  • Job Outlook 2022-2032: 11% growth
  • Typical Entry-Level Education: Doctoral or professional degree

Physicians and Surgeons

Physicians and surgeons diagnose and treat injuries or illnesses and address health maintenance.

  • Median Salary: $239,200 per year
  • Job Outlook 2022-2032: 4% growth
  • Typical Entry-Level Education: Doctoral or professional degree
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Sophisticated DNA sequencer a game changer in Biology department

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