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Biochemistry

College of Liberal Arts & Sciences

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What is Biochemistry?

Biochemistry is an advanced field that encompasses the biological sciences, physics, and chemistry. You’ll develop a higher level of understanding of chemistry and physics and place these in a modern research context. Your coursework will also consist of molecular and cellular biology and chemistry courses. This major might be the right fit for you if you’re interested in a career in research or have advanced degree aspirations.

Career Options

  • Biotechnology
  • Fine chemicals research
  • Food processing
  • Government research
  • Higher education
  • Industrial research
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Medicine

Post-Graduation Success1

101% employed or continuing education

38% employed after graduation

63% attending graduate school

$46,333 average starting annual income

Sample employer destinations: AbbVie (1), Beckman Coulter Life Sciences (1), Carle Health (1) View All

Sample grad school destinations: Northwestern University, Northwestern University, Pritzker School of Law, University of Illinois Chicago View All

Program Resources

College of Liberal Arts & Sciences Program Webpage Degree Requirements

Review Criteria

First-Year Major-Specific Criteria

  • Strong math and science coursework and performance
  • Calculus preferred (if available at high school)
  • Biology and chemistry preferred (if available at high school)
  • Demonstrated understanding of and interest in the major

View All Review Criteria

Transfer Criteria

Transfer Handbook

Graduation & Retention2

3.8 years to degree

98% first-year retention rate

71% four-year graduation rate

86% six-year graduation rate

Annual Program Costs3

Illinois Resident

  • Tuition: $18,260
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses: $18,884
  • Total: $42,198

Non-Resident

  • Tuition: $38,612
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses:$19,224
  • Total: $62,890

International

  • Tuition: $41,140
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses: $19,224
  • Total: $65,418

Related Majors

1 Post-graduate data was collected through the Illini Success initiative, which primarily relies on self-reported survey data sources. Statistics are aggregated from the past three years. Please note that total compensation may be greater than annual salary as other forms of compensation (e.g., signing bonus, commission, benefits) are not included. For more information on Illini Success data and methods, please visit the Illini Success website. For average wage or salary information five years after entry into an occupation, visit the Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes Explorer.

2 Graduation and retention data comes from several majors within a similar interest area. Data may not yet be available for newly created programs. Years-to-degree data is only available for programs from which you can earn a degree. Retention and graduation rates are only available for programs that you can apply directly into. Retention rates reflect retention to the university, not necessarily retention within the major.

3 "Expenses" are estimated and include books, supplies, housing, and other living expenses. The exact amount you’ll pay depends on where you decide to live, the meal plan you choose, and your overall lifestyle. To learn more about costs, please visit the Office of Student Financial Aid website. To learn the average monthly student loan payment over a period of 20 years based on estimated cost, visit the Illinois College2Career website.

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