Explore the dynamic interface between biology and chemistry when you major in biochemistry. From a rigorous foundation in the sciences, you'll complete cutting-edge research and explore the world around you analytically and creatively.
The biochemistry major explores the cross-disciplinary link between the natural world and artificial chemical processes. You'll develop analytical and critical-thinking skills to explore your unique interests across this broad field.
Your education begins in small, rigorous classes and labs where you'll train in the theoretical and practical aspects of biology, chemistry, and their interconnections. Your professors will serve as your mentors, providing individualized attention while getting to know your personal and professional goals.
You'll get involved in research as early as your freshman year, collaborating with distinguished faculty members on diverse projects. You'll even have the chance to present your findings at professional conferences.
Supported by professors with vibrant industry connections, you'll graduate with strong, marketable skills and distinguished research projects that will set you on the inside track in a range of medical, industrial, and academic careers.
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Widener's pre-professional pathways give you the flexibility to follow your interests while preparing for a professional career.
Biochemistry majors can participate in the following pathways:
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For a complete list of application requirements, check out our How to Apply page.
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After training in the foundations of chemistry, cellular and molecular biology, and the unique principles of biochemistry, you'll tailor your research and elective courses to focus on the biological or chemical aspects of the discipline.
Undergraduate research is the hallmark of a biochemistry education at Widener. You'll have the opportunity to get involved in research as early as your freshman year, presenting your work at local and national conferences and co-authoring publications in peer-reviewed journals. Join the summer research program to even further your studies.
Biochemistry faculty come from a wide variety of backgrounds but are all recognized as experts in their fields, presenting and publishing research locally and nationally and serving on national boards. Their areas of research include genetics, cancer biology, developmental biology, bioanalytical chemistry, bioorganic chemistry, physiology, obesity and longevity studies, and more.
You'll have access to professional-grade instrumentation in both biology and chemistry labs. Additionally, the sciences at Widener operate under Green Chemistry principles, so you'll always be working with sustainability in mind. In fact, Widener was the first institution in Pennsylvania to sign the Green Chemistry Commitment in 2014.
Where can you use Nobel Prize-winning “genetic scissors” to research the impact of heat stress on commercial chickens or fat formation in fruit flies and humans? In Widener’s undergraduate biology and biochemistry labs.
As part of a new partnership with Tri-State Bird Rescue & Research, Inc., a student-faculty chemistry team are testing detergents to determine which is most effective at cleaning oil from the feathers of affected wildlife.
Widener's innovative faculty stepped up to provide two virtual camp experiences for middle- and high school-age students around the world.
A diverse range of professors with varied research interests will expose you to many unique industries and careers in biochemistry. Some faculty members have worked in industrial positions prior to joining academia and all do undergraduate research with students and publish in peer-reviewed journals.
Kirkbride Hall, Room 469 C