Biochemistry Major

students work with vials and chemicals in a lab

Do you want to study life at the cellular (and smaller) level?

At a glance

Are you fascinated by the molecular intricacies of life or passionate about solving critical global health challenges? The Biochemistry major offers an exceptional pathway for students aspiring to pursue careers in biosciences and medicine. It serves s a dynamic hub where physical, biological, and computational sciences converge to address fundamental and applied questions in cutting-edge fields, including cell biology, structural biology, gene expression, cancer biology, and infectious diseases. Whether your goal is to advance scientific discovery or improve human and animal health, you’ll find a collaborative environment that empowers you to thrive academically and professionally.

Degree typeBachelor of Science
FormatOn campus
Part ofCollege of Natural Sciences
Competitive major?No
Accelerated option?No
Not sure if this is the right major for you?
See all of them!

Concentrations

A concentration allows you to specialize in a certain area within your major, offering a depth of information and hands-on experiences that you may not otherwise get. Many students in this major will concentrate in one area to work in a specific field after college, as well as find mentors and internships before they even graduate.

ASBMB Biochemistry

This concentration will provide you with a broad education in biochemistry, molecular genetics and cell biology, and is recommended for students who are considering teaching and/or research as a career. Students who graduate from any of our concentrations can state on their resume that they graduated from an American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) accredited program.

Data Science

This concentration delivers a strong background in biochemistry, molecular genetics, and cell biology, along with computer science, mathematics and statistics. If you are interested in a career in life-science data analysis, this program will give you the skills necessary to turn massive data sets into discoveries that advance biological research across diverse organisms and ecosystems.

Health and Medical Sciences

This concentration provides a broad foundation in biochemistry, molecular genetics and cell biology, but with an additional focus on anatomy and physiology and the biochemistry of diseases. Students can also participate in independent research and/or medical internships. This is a great track if you hope to move onto the medical or veterinary field after graduation or want to apply to graduate school in health-related research.

Pre-pharmacy

This is the ideal concentration for those hoping to pursue pharmacy school after graduation. You’ll get biochemistry, molecular genetics, and cell biology courses alongside physiology, microbiology, immunology, and public speaking. This concentration fulfills the prerequisite courses for admission into most pharmacy schools. It is also an appropriate concentration for a career as a medical technician.

Some Career Options

With a well-rounded skill set in chemistry, biology, physical sciences, and mathematics, CSU Biochemistry graduates go on to careers as doctors, pharmacists, cell biologists, geneticists, biotechnology researchers, veterinarians, and beyond. While many grads go onto specialized graduate schools, others enjoy research jobs, work in education, or partner with government and local law enforcement.

Tour and info session options

Tours may be available as part of Admissions tours and info sessions, offered throughout the year.

For additional opportunities, please reach out to:

CNS undergraduate recruitment coordinator, at [email protected].

academic Info and Tips

Explore even more

Want a more in-depth look at this major? Take a look at the program website to learn more.