Biochemistry, BA
Discover how living things function at the chemical level. Through classes in the arts and sciences, you'll develop strong problem-solving and life skills that can lead to various career options.
Quick facts
Locations
Courses
Additional facts
STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
International students (F1) can extend U.S. work experience by 24 months.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Degree description
The Bachelor of Arts program in biochemistry combines the study of chemistry, biology and the liberal arts to help you understand how life works at the molecular level. You explore how cells function, and you learn to think critically and solve complex problems. Along with science courses, you take classes in languages and the arts to gain a well-rounded, global perspective.
Through lectures and lab activities, you build both scientific knowledge and practical research skills. You also have the chance to work with professors on real research projects. The program's flexible design lets you shape your studies around your goals --- whether you are working toward a dual degree or focusing on a special interest in science.
In addition to reviewing the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, if you are interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, you can visit The College's website for more information and requirements.
Courses
Explore a sample list of courses you may take in this program.
| Sample courses |
|---|
| CHM 117 General Chemistry for Majors I |
| CHM 118 General Chemistry for Majors II |
| CHM 233 General Organic Chemistry I |
| CHM 237 General Organic Chemistry Laboratory I |
| CHM 234 General Organic Chemistry II |
| CHM 238 General Organic Chemistry Laboratory II |
Course checksheet and curriculum archive
The curriculum checksheet displays this program's required courses and other requirements you must complete for graduation.
Current ASU students, see how your courses can apply to another major and find out how to change your major (opens in new window).
Already completed some college courses? Build on your success.
If you earned college credit outside ASU, our transfer tools map out your progress towards a degree and help you plan next steps.
See how your credits may apply (opens in new window)What you'll learn
The following learning outcomes highlight some of the knowledge and skills you'll develop to support your future success.
- Predict molecular structure and reactivity using knowledge from organic, inorganic, analytical, physical and biological chemistry.
- Clearly communicate their findings from a basic chemical experiment.
- Analyze chemical data using common statistical methods.
Predict molecular structure and reactivity using knowledge from organic, inorganic, analytical, physical and biological chemistry.Admission requirements
Here are the admission and application details
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
First year (opens in new window) | Transfer (opens in new window) | International (opens in new window) | Readmission (opens in new window)
A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.
Students should visit the Change of Major form (opens in new window) for information about how to change a major to this program.
Explore expanded study opportunities
This program allows you to obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years. As a high-achieving student, accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree programs are designed for you to share undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of your master's degree. These programs feature the same high-quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty.
This program is offered as an accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree with:
Approval to pursue the accelerated master's is typically granted during the junior year of your bachelor's degree program. If you are interested, you can learn more about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
When you pursue concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”), you earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with your academic advisor, you can create your own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
When studying abroad, students gain valuable experience in a diverse set of programs. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses while staying on track for graduation.
With their resumes enhanced by the heightened communication, critical thinking and leadership skills they acquired through study abroad, graduates stand out competitively in their chosen fields.
Paying for college
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students recieve financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Get an estimate
Build the career and future you want
Our graduates are prepared for a variety of career paths, including:
| Career | Growth | Median Salary | More Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Technician | 4.9% | $60,390 | Learn more |
| Dentist | 5.7% | $170,950 | Learn more |
| High School Teacher | -0.2% | $72,040 | Learn more |
| Medical Doctor (MD) | 4.0% | $256,560 | Learn more |
| Medical Scientist | 12.6% | $103,410 | Learn more |
| Pharmacist | 5.2% | $140,910 | Learn more |
| Physician Assistant (PA) | 21.1% | $135,880 | Learn more |
| Scientist/Biochemist | 12.3% | $127,410 | Learn more |
| Technical Writer | 0.8% | $90,390 | Learn more |
| Veterinarian (Vet) | 9.4% | $130,100 | Learn more |
Example job titles and salaries listed are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience and geographical location may affect pay scales. Some jobs also may require advanced degrees, certifications or state-specific licensure.
Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
More about careers
Graduates are prepared for careers in a variety of fields and sectors, such as medicine and health; chemical and biotechnology industries; pharmaceuticals; environmental and food science; food production; environmental protection; scientific sales and marketing; public service, such as policymaking and teaching; patent law; and many technical areas.
Graduates are also well prepared to apply to medical, dental and pharmacy schools, and other graduate programs.
Contact information
Use the contact information below to get in touch if you're a current student or have general questions.
Prospective students should fill out the Request for Information form.
School of Molecular Sciences
|
PSC 116
smsadvising@asu.edu
480-965-7667
Frequently asked questions about degree programs
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the "New Programs" option.
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
