Chemistry (BS) – Biochemistry

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Central Florida

Program Overview

The University of Central Florida Chemistry B.S. – Biochemistry track combines the five major areas of chemistry with advanced study in biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics and microbiology, making it well suited to students interested in chemical, biomedical, pharmaceutical or research careers. Students build a strong scientific foundation through laboratory-based coursework, biochemical methods and independent research while also having opportunities to prepare for graduate study or professional schools such as medicine, dentistry and veterinary medicine.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students establish their scientific foundation through Chemistry Fundamentals I and II, Chemistry Fundamentals Laboratory, calculus and introductory physics. Organic Chemistry I and Organic Chemistry II then introduce the reactions, structures and laboratory techniques that prepare students for advanced biochemical study.

Year 2: Students progress into Analytical Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry Laboratory and Advanced Organic Laboratory Techniques while completing Calculus with Analytic Geometry III. This stage strengthens quantitative and laboratory skills before students move into the program's specialized biochemistry and molecular sciences.

Year 3: The biochemistry focus becomes more prominent through Biochemistry I, Biochemistry II and Biochemical Methods, supported by Physical Chemistry I and II. Students also study General Microbiology, Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, giving them a broader understanding of biological processes at the molecular level.

Year 4: Students deepen their specialization through advanced electives such as Molecular Biology I, Immunology, Cancer Biology, Bioconjugate Chemistry, Bioinorganic Chemistry and Introduction to Pharmacology. The program also includes Chemistry Seminar and Directed Independent Research, allowing students to apply their knowledge to research and complete the undergraduate research requirement.

Focus areas

Biochemistry, analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, inorganic chemistry, molecular cell biology, genetics, microbiology, biochemical methods, pharmaceutical and biomedical applications, independent research.

Learning outcomes

Students develop the ability to apply chemical and biological principles, conduct laboratory and biochemical investigations, interpret scientific information, use research methods, analyze molecular and cellular processes, communicate scientific findings and pursue further study or professional opportunities in chemistry and related fields.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

The Chemistry B.S. – Biochemistry program is certified by the American Chemical Society (ACS) and follows ACS-oriented chemistry education standards, supporting preparation for professional chemistry careers and graduate-level study.

Reputation (employability rankings)

UCF's College of Sciences highlights strong industry connections and opportunities for internships, laboratories and field experiences. UCF's official materials also note that the university has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report among the nation's leading innovative universities.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Practical experience is built strongly into the Biochemistry track through dedicated chemistry laboratories, biochemical methods, independent research and an undergraduate research report required for graduation. Students can work with faculty mentors through UCF's research programs and access specialized analytical instrumentation, while the department's research spans biochemistry, analytical chemistry, environmental chemistry, materials, organic and physical chemistry.

Students can develop practical experience through:

Biochemical Methods (BCH4103L): Hands-on training directly connected to biochemical investigation and laboratory techniques.
Directed Independent Research (CHM4912): Students can earn credit for faculty-guided independent research, providing an opportunity to participate in real research projects.
Biochemistry research: UCF researchers investigate new antibiotics, nucleic-acid analysis, disease diagnostics and DNA-based technologies, including research into new therapies for cancer, tuberculosis, malaria and iron poisoning.
Departmental instrumentation: Students working in the research environment can be exposed to instruments including GC-MS, LC-MS, Raman systems, UPLC-MS/MS, UV-Vis spectrophotometers, IR spectrometers, TGA/DSC systems and plate readers.
Undergraduate research programs: UCF supports faculty-mentored research through programs such as RAMP, the Knight Research Scholars Program, student research grants and summer research opportunities.
Chemistry Building: The Chemistry Building contains instructional and research laboratories, classrooms and faculty offices supporting undergraduate and graduate chemistry and biochemistry programs.
Research centers: Students are part of a wider research environment that includes the Biomolecular Science Center, Advanced Materials Processing and Analysis Center, Nanoscience Technology Center and National Center for Forensic Science.
Nanoscience facilities: UCF's NanoScience Technology Center includes more than 20,000 square feet of chemical, materials-development and biological laboratories, including chemistry and biochemistry laboratories.
Internships and experiential opportunities: UCF's College of Sciences provides opportunities for internships, laboratories and field experiences, while the Chemistry department directs students to the Office of Experiential Learning for cooperative education, internships and service learning.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Chemistry B.S. – Biochemistry track is designed for students who want to enter chemical and related industries or continue into graduate and professional education. UCF specifically identifies preparation for graduate study in chemistry and related areas such as pharmacology and toxicology, as well as professional schools including medicine, dentistry and veterinary medicine.

Typical career directions include biochemist, laboratory scientist, pharmaceutical research associate and biotechnology researcher.

Students can build their progression through:

Career Services: UCF's Chemistry department directs students to Career Services for career planning and strategies for applying to graduate or professional school.
Office of Experiential Learning: Students can access cooperative education, internship and service-learning opportunities to complement their academic preparation.
Career exploration data: UCF's Chemistry career resources provide access to information on job demand, employment trends, average earnings, top employers, education requirements, technical skills and job titles.
Industry and research environment: UCF describes the Central Florida Research Park adjacent to campus as a hub for sponsored research, internships and employment opportunities for students and graduates.
Research progression: UCF reports that 47% of undergraduate researchers continue their education, highlighting the role of research experience in supporting postgraduate pathways.
Professional preparation: ACS certification provides an established chemistry-focused academic framework for students pursuing chemistry careers or further study.
Research partnerships: The Chemistry department collaborates across UCF with areas including the National Center for Forensic Science, Nanoscience Technology Center, College of Optics and Photonics, and College of Engineering and Computer Science.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the B.S., students can pursue graduate education in chemistry, biochemistry and related scientific disciplines, including areas such as pharmacology and toxicology. The degree can also support applications to professional programs in medicine, dentistry and veterinary medicine, depending on the student's prerequisite and admission requirements.