Biochemistry (BS)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

American University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry at American University explores how chemical processes drive biological systems, with students investigating questions involving areas such as genomes, DNA, proteins, and cellular processes. The 120-credit program is designed for students interested in biochemical research, healthcare, biotechnology, and related scientific careers, with three different tracks that allow students to shape their studies around their interests.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students begin by developing their foundations in chemistry, biology, mathematics, and the scientific skills needed for later biochemical study. Introductory laboratory and science courses establish the practical and quantitative base for understanding biological systems at the molecular level.

Year 2: Students move into more advanced chemistry and biological science, strengthening their understanding of molecular structure, reactions, and biological processes. Coursework in areas such as organic chemistry and molecular biology helps connect chemical principles with the mechanisms operating in living systems.

Year 3: Students progress into specialized biochemistry and analytical work, examining how molecules interact and how biochemical processes can be investigated experimentally. The curriculum gives students opportunities to develop deeper laboratory and research skills while beginning to explore their selected biochemistry track.

Year 4: Students complete advanced coursework within their chosen track and bring together their chemistry, biology, and laboratory knowledge through higher-level study and research-oriented learning. This final stage prepares students for employment in scientific settings or continued study in graduate and professional programs.

Focus areas

Biochemistry, molecular biology, biological chemistry, chemical analysis, biochemical research, laboratory science, biotechnology, health sciences, molecular processes, scientific research

Learning outcomes

Students develop the scientific knowledge and practical skills needed to understand biochemical systems, investigate biological processes through chemical approaches, interpret scientific information, and conduct laboratory-based research. AU's chemistry department emphasizes hands-on learning and research opportunities, with students able to work closely with faculty on scientific projects.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

American University's Department of Chemistry is approved by the American Chemical Society (ACS) and offers the BS in Biochemistry alongside its chemistry programs. However, the official AU page does not state that the BS Biochemistry itself is an ACS-approved/ACS-certified degree, so it should not be recorded as ACS-accredited without further official confirmation.

Reputation (employability outcomes)

American University reports that 90% of Biochemistry graduates are employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation. The university also identifies employers of Department of Chemistry undergraduates including Brigham and Women's Hospital, Institute for Science and International Security, National Institutes of Health, New York Medical College, and The GW Medical Faculty Associates.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The Biochemistry B.S. at American University gives students practical exposure to biochemical research through laboratory-based coursework and opportunities to work with faculty on research projects. The Department of Chemistry's research spans biochemistry as well as organic, medicinal, physical, analytical, and inorganic chemistry, with research facilities located in the Hall of Science.

Students can develop practical experience through:

Faculty research: Students can work closely with faculty on research projects, gaining experience with scientific investigation and biochemical research.
Laboratory learning: The program's science-focused curriculum provides students with hands-on laboratory experience alongside their chemistry and biology coursework.
Research facilities: The Department of Chemistry provides access to research facilities in the Hall of Science, supporting faculty and student research across multiple chemistry disciplines.
Biochemistry research: Students can explore research questions involving genomes, DNA, proteins, and biological processes, reflecting the department's focus on understanding biological systems through biochemical research.
Washington, DC opportunities: AU's location provides access to major scientific and healthcare organizations, with the department identifying employers such as the National Institutes of Health, Brigham and Women's Hospital, New York Medical College, and The GW Medical Faculty Associates among organizations employing its undergraduate graduates.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Biochemistry B.S. prepares students for scientific employment as well as further education in graduate and professional fields. American University reports that 90% of Biochemistry graduates are employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation, while the program's career information identifies an average base salary of $80,000 for biochemists with a BS in the DC area.

Typical career directions include biochemist, laboratory scientist, research assistant, pharmaceutical scientist, clinical laboratory professional, biotechnology professional, and scientific analyst.

Students can further develop their career pathway through:

Research and faculty connections: Working with AU faculty on research can help students build research experience and prepare for employment or graduate-level study.
Employer connections: AU's Department of Chemistry identifies organizations employing its undergraduate graduates, including the National Institutes of Health, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Institute for Science and International Security, New York Medical College, and The GW Medical Faculty Associates.
Employment outcomes: AU reports 90% employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation for the Biochemistry program.
Salary information: AU's Biochemistry program page reports an average base salary of $80,000 for biochemists with a BS in the Washington, DC area.
Scientific career environment: The Department of Chemistry covers research areas including biochemistry, medicinal chemistry, analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, and inorganic chemistry, giving students exposure to multiple scientific directions.
Professional preparation: The program can provide a foundation for students planning careers in biochemical research and related scientific fields, as well as students continuing into graduate or professional education.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates can continue into graduate study in areas such as biochemistry, chemistry, molecular biology, biomedical sciences, and related life sciences, or pursue professional education in health-related fields. AU's Department of Chemistry also offers graduate-level study, including an MS in Chemistry, a Graduate Certificate in Clinical Biochemistry, and a PhD in Biomedical & Environmental Health Sciences, providing relevant options for students interested in continuing their scientific education.