Biochemistry

Major

What will I learn as a biochemistry major?

As a major in our ASBMB-accredited biochemistry program, you’ll build a strong foundation in the molecular principles that govern life, including how energy drives biological processes, how structure determines function, and how biological information is stored, regulated and expressed.

You'll also develop skill in critical thinking, quantitative reasoning and scientific problem-solving, which will helping you understand how molecular systems operate in real biological contexts.

All biochemistry majors complete a faculty-mentored research capstone that integrates these concepts through hands-on discovery across diverse research areas. In this immersive experience, you’ll design experiments, analyze data and engage in authentic scientific inquiry You'll apply classroom knowledge while strengthening technical skills, laboratory safety practices and ethical research conduct.

Throughout the program—especially during the capstone—you’ll develop strong communication and teamwork skills. You’ll write and present scientific work, collaborate closely with peers and faculty, and graduate well prepared for professional school, graduate study or careers in research, healthcare, biotechnology and related fields.

Highlights of our biochemistry major

As a biochemistry major, you'll:

• Learn in an ASBMB-accredited biochemistry program: Build a strong foundation in biochemistry through a curriculum that emphasizes hands-on labs, critical thinking, quantitative skills, and ethical scientific practice. CMU is one of only four institutions in Michigan with an ASBMB-accredited biochemistry degree.
• Take part in a distinctive faculty-mentored research capstone: Work closely with faculty on a research project where you design experiments, analyze data, and explore real scientific questions in areas like biology, medicine, biotechnology, and environmental science. CMU is the only public university in Michigan where 100% of chemistry and biochemistry majors complete a capstone research project and thesis.
  
• Share your discoveries beyond the classroom: Present your research at regional or national conferences and, in many cases, contribute to peer-reviewed scientific publications. 100% of CMU biochemistry majors present their research, and 80% do so at conferences, including national scientific conferences.
  
• Gain real-world experience through internships: Apply your skills in professional settings through internships or summer research opportunities in industry, healthcare, government, or academic labs. CMU students have interned at companies like Dow, Corteva, Dupont, Zoetis, Montrose, and others, and students can earn credit through our chemistry and biochemistry internship course.
  
• Connect, collaborate, and build your future: Work in interdisciplinary teams across CMU departments and colleges, join student organizations, and form mentoring relationships that prepare you for graduate school, professional programs, and science-based careers. CMU has a dynamic, national award-winning American Chemical Society (ACS) Student Members chapter.