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.
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.
Extensive Undergraduate Research Opportunities
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.
Expand your horizons and deepen your studies when you double major in biology, chemistry, environmental science, and more.
Your Inside Track to Success
Your Inside Track to Success
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.
Recent Employers & Industry Connections
DuPont
GSK
Merck
FMC
Eurofins Lancaster Laboratories
Outlook & Outcomes
Potential Careers
Health professions
Forensic science
Toxicology
Genetics
Clinical research science
Industry Growth
Employment in life and physical science careers is expected to increase 7% from 2018-2028 as the demand for expertise in the sciences grows, particularly in biomedical research and energy management.
To visit Widener is, more often than not, to fall in love with the place. To fit your timeline and schedule, we offer a variety of ways to get to know us.
When comparing costs, we encourage you to look beyond sticker price. Because Widener is a private institution, we’re able to offer financial assistance that brings our exceptional education within reach.
Our financial aid team takes the guessing game out of applying for financial aid. To determine your financial aid package, including scholarships and grants, apply and complete the financial aid process. You might be surprised at how much we can offer in assistance.
Next steps to apply
Applying online has never been easier—and it’s free! We also accept the Common Application. Take the next step toward joining the Widener Pride.