Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry
Connect chemistry and biology to serve in science and healthcare.
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Gain Skills for Careers in Science and Medicine
Torn between biology and chemistry? The biochemistry major at Concordia University Irvine brings both together, so you can study the molecules of life and apply that knowledge to medicine, research, and industry. You’ll learn how chemical principles illuminate the structure and function of living organisms, from cells and proteins to pathways and diagnostics.
Small classes, faculty mentorship, and extensive lab work help you think like a scientist while growing in wisdom and purpose. As you study God’s creation, you’ll also explore how your gifts can serve others through science and health.
Career Relevant
Gain real-world skills for vocational callings in research, industry or medicine.
Collaborative Classes
Learn in classes with a 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
Opportunity Awaits
Engage in research in our chemistry and biology labs.
Getting Started
Biochemistry provides the comprehensive conceptual understanding of chemistry and the rigorous foundation required for laboratory careers, medical and health professions, graduate study, and industry. In fact, many Concordia alumni in the natural sciences choose to continue their education in graduate school.
As a biochemistry major, you’ll study topics like organic chemistry, genetics and microbiology. Plus, you’ll get to choose electives in topics like neuroscience, exercise physiology, and many more.
Next Start
January 11, 2027
Curriculum
Core Curriculum (Sample Courses):
- BIO111 – General Biology I
- BIO350 – Molecular and Cellular Biology
- BIO355 – Biostatistics
- BIO496 – Research in Biology
OR CHE496 – Research in Chemistry - BIO499 – Senior Thesis
OR CHE499 – Senior Thesis - CHE221 – Chemistry I
- CHE222 – Chemistry II
- CHE321 – Organic Chemistry I
- CHE322 – Organic Chemistry II
- CHE403 – Biological Inorganic Chemistry
- CHE405 – Chemical Biology
- CHE421 – Biochemistry I
- CHE422 – Biochemistry II
- PHY211 – Physics I
OR PHY221 – Calculus-based Physics I - PHY212 – Physics II
OR PHY222 – Calculus-based Physics II - SCI455 – History and Philosophy of Science
- SCI495 – Research Methods
View the Concordia University Irvine Online Catalog for a full list of courses.
With a biochemistry degree from Concordia, you’ll be able to:
- Describe and apply key concepts in chemistry and biochemistry.
- Read, evaluate, and synthesize peer-reviewed scientific literature.
- Design experiments, analyze data, and communicate findings in written and oral formats.
- Use mathematical, graphical, and symbolic tools to represent chemical ideas.
- Articulate connections between Christian faith and scientific vocation with intellectual integrity.
- Collaborate in team-based lab settings and community-facing science activities.
Tuition and Fees
At Concordia, we understand that investing in your education is a significant decision. That’s why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make your academic journey more affordable. In fact, 100% of our students receive some form of financial assistance! View tuition costs and fees for undergraduate programs.
Admission Requirements
View the Application page for full details on application and admission requirements.
Nationally Recognized Q&I Curriculum
Concordia University Irvine is among a distinctive group of universities that offer a comprehensive liberal arts curriculum for all of its students. Our nationally recognized Enduring Questions & Ideas curriculum (Q&I, for short) is carefully crafted so that you discover the purpose of a liberal arts education — to grow intellectually, ethically, and spiritually.
Career Outcomes
The field of biochemists and biophysicists is projected to grow 9% from 2024–2034 — faster than average — reflecting ongoing demand in R&D, pharma, and health-adjacent industries.1
Biochemistry majors typically pursue roles across healthcare, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, education, and research, or continue on to professional and graduate programs. Entry-level lab roles typically require a bachelor’s degree, while independent research and principal investigator roles generally require advanced degrees.
Academic Opportunities
Deepen your experience beyond the classroom through:
- Faculty-mentored research in chemistry and biology labs
- Poster presentations at campus and regional symposia
- Interdisciplinary projects with Biology, Chemistry, Engineering, and Kinesiology
If you’re exploring related paths, you may be interested in the other majors, minors, and pre-professional programs that we offer, such as Business Data Analytics minor and Pre-Nursing.
Extracurricular Activities
Concordia offers many opportunities for you to become involved with on-campus events, clubs, and organizations. Join communities that enrich your scientific and spiritual formation:
- American Chemical Society Student Chapter
- Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society (TriBeta)
- Marine Lab Educational Outreach Program
- MedHeads Club
- President’s Academic Showcase
- Heritage Garden Club
Life at Concordia
Join a community where you’re free to explore your interests and pursuits, make relationships that last a lifetime, and develop your own relationship with God. What will you explore?
Explore Financial Aid
Reduce your tuition costs with financial aid — with help from a team that wants to make your time at Concordia as affordable as possible.
Meet Our Faculty
FAQs
What makes the biochemistry program at Concordia special?
The biochemistry major at Concordia provides a rigorous science curriculum in a Christ-centered community, with small classes, close faculty mentorship, research access in biology and chemistry labs, and personalized preparation for biochemistry careers, graduate education, and medical school.
What can I use my Biochemistry major for?
Because Biochemistry sits at the intersection of life and physical sciences, a degree in this field equips you for a successful career in R&D, pharma/biotech, clinical labs, education, public health, and advanced study. In 2024, 57% of biochemists worked in scientific research and development, 19% in pharmaceutical manufacturing, and the rest in other settings like universities and state agencies.1
Do medical schools like biochemistry majors?
Yes! While you can hold a bachelor’s degree in almost any topic for medical school admission, a biochemistry major is a wise choice because the development of the analytical, quantitative, and lab skills needed for success on the MCAT and in medical school.
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Sources
1U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/biochemists-and-biophysicists.htm (viewed Oct. 22, 2025).
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.