Biochemistry
College of Liberal Arts & Sciences
CompareWhat 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
90% employed or continuing education
36% employed after graduation
54% attending graduate school
$56,431 average starting annual income
Sample employer destinations: Epic Systems, Christie Clinic, UL Solutions, Ascension, United States Army Corps of Engineers ERDC-CERL, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Evozyne, Northwestern University, AbbVie, HeartFlow View All
Sample grad school destinations: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Illinois Chicago, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Princeton University, Carnegie Mellon University View All
Review Criteria
First-Year Major-Specific Criteria
- Strong math and science coursework and performance
- Calculus preferred (if available at high school)
- 4 years of science
- Demonstrated understanding of and interest in the major
Transfer Criteria
Transfer HandbookGraduation & Retention2
3.7 years to degree
95% first-year retention rate
81% four-year graduation rate
89% six-year graduation rate
Annual Program Costs3
Illinois Resident
- Tuition: $18,626
- Fees: $5,182
- Expenses: $19,558
- Total: $43,366
Non-Resident
- Tuition: $41,302
- Fees: $5,182
- Expenses:$19,898
- Total: $66,382
International
- Tuition: $43,950
- Fees: $5,182
- Expenses: $19,898
- Total: $69,030
