Biochemistry is the study of how all living organisms make and use diverse building blocks - proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates - i.e. life at the molecular level.  The study of these processes spans both biology and chemistry to study how energy is used and transformed in living systems; how macromolecular structure determines function and regulation; and how information storage and flow are dynamic and interactive.

Starting Fall 2026, the new Biochemistry Major will be jointly offered by the Biology and Chemistry Departments.  The major reflects the importance of both disciplines in modern biochemistry.  From core courses to electives, the major showcases the breadth and depth of the field and is intended for students considering multiple career paths from research to medicine.

*The Bulletin entry for the Academic Year 2026-2027 is currently being constructed, the link will be published to this page upon completion. 

Although student declaration of major and assignment of major advisors will be managed by the Chemistry Department, faculty advisors from both departments support the joint major. Students will be assigned (or can request) one of the following advisors:

Biology: April Bednarski, Wilhelm Cruz, Ram Dixit, Joseph Jez, Barbara Kunkel, Himadri Pakrasi, Anthony Smith, Craig Smith, Jennifer Wang, Corey Westfall, Hani Zaher, Xuehua Zhong.

Chemistry: Jen Heemstra, John Heemstra, Meredith Jackrel, Yusuke Okuno, Gary Patti, Courtney Reichhardt, Bill Spees, Tim Wencewicz., Yan Yu.

1) I have not declared any major and would like to become a biochemistry major, what should I do?  Do I need to wait until Fall 2026 to declare the major?

All students need to wait until FL26 to declare the new biochemistry major.  As you need to declare a major as the February deadline approaches, you should identify a 'current' major and specialization in either biology or chemistry. THEN in FL26, switch into the new biochemistry major.  NOTE: you will be assigned an advisor in either major and that faculty member will remain your major advisor in the biochemistry major.

2) I am currently a biology/chemistry major with a biochemistry specialization, do I need to declare the new major?

You do not need to declare the new major. You can finish the current curriculum.  However, depending on how far along you are in the current curriculum, you can switch into the new biochemistry major in FL26 if you choose to. NOTE:  your current major advisor will become your biochemistry major advisor.

3) Can I switch out of the new biochemistry major into another major?

Yes.  Because the structure of the biochemistry major is similar to that of the biology and chemistry majors, it is possible to change between the three options.  However, depending on progress and the timing of a change, be sure to consult with your major advisor for best options.

4) Will I be able to pursue minors (such as Bioinformatics) that the biology and/or chemistry majors do not allow?

Yes, because the new major is separate from the biology and chemistry majors; this allows biochemistry majors greater flexibility.  Remember that courses for a minor do not count toward a major (and vice versa).

5) Can I use Study Abroad courses to satisfy requirements of the biochemistry major?

Yes.  Current study abroad programs for both biology and chemistry can provide options to satisfy requirements for the biochemistry major. It is strongly advised to consult with advisors and/or DUS as soon as possible to discuss study abroad plans.