UMass Boston

Biochemistry BS

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Explore the chemical processes that power all living organisms.

UMass Boston's Biochemistry bachelor's program offers a firm background in the chemical processes that take place within living organisms. The biochemistry major also provides students a vehicle to engage in, and complete, an independent research project within a biochemistry-related laboratory from the Departments of Biology or Chemistry.

Biochemistry is a rich, interdisciplinary area of study at the intersection of biology, chemistry, calculus, and physics. Explore the fundamentals and interactions of these areas in coursework and labs. Whether your interest lies within marine science, human physiology, animal behavior, bioinformatics, or elsewhere—UMass Boston has a lab setting for you.

Career Options

UMass Boston is focused on developing scientific knowledge while opening pathways for inclusivity and diversity within the academic realm. Explore career options in settings from the lab and the field to the boardroom and academia.

Examples of future careers for Biochemistry majors include:

  • Laboratory technician
  • Chemical engineer
  • Forensic scientist
  • Life sciences consultant
  • Wildlife biologist
  • Pharmacist
  • Physician

Plan Your Education

How to Apply

Apply for Admission

Please review the first-year and transfer apply pages for important information about application requirements, deadlines, and application status check.

Apply as a First-Year Student

Apply as a Transfer Student

Financing Your Education

Become a Beacon and pursue your passion in UMass Boston’s diverse, supportive environment. Many students across our 200+ undergraduate and graduate programs receive financial aid—providing access to an education that’s exceptional and affordable. Click below to learn more about financial aid opportunities and deadlines.

Financial Aid Deadlines & Application Process

Scholarships for First-Year & Transfer Students

Tuition & Financial Aid

Cost & Aid
Please refer to the following Admissions pages for more information:

For additional information regarding tuition and fees, please visit the Bursar’s Office or send an email to Bursar@umb.edu.

Curriculum

Program Declaration

At time of admission to the University or by completion of an Undergraduate Program Add/Change form.

Students with a declared major in biology or chemistry may not declare a second major in biochemistry.

Required Science Courses (78 to 80 Credits)

Non-Major Courses

The courses below are not required and do not count toward the major, but are recommended for students who are looking to enhance their skills for professional or post-graduate academic opportunities.

Recommended for Research Experience

Recommended Electives

Graduation Criteria

If this is the student’s only or primary major, the degree requirements below must be completed for graduation. See graduation requirements for more information.

Complete a minimum of 78 credits from 26 required biochemistry, biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics courses.

Students are also encouraged to take additional recommended research and elective courses, but they are not required for the degree.

GPA: A minimum GPA of 2.0 is required from all biochemistry, biology, and chemistry courses.
Pass/fail: No more than one course taken pass/fail in mathematics or physics may be applied toward the major.

Program Honors

To graduate with honors in biochemistry, students must fulfill the following requirements:

  • A cumulative average of 3.0 or higher.
  • A cumulative average of 3.3 or higher in the major (this includes many, but not all, biology, chemistry, and biochemistry courses).
  • Satisfactory completion of an independent research project that the Biochemistry Steering Committee deems worthy of honors recognition.

Contact

Program Director Marianna Torok, PhD
Marianna.Torok [at] umb.edu
(617) 287-6199

Next Steps

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