Instructor and student working in a biochemistry lab.

When it comes to biochemical pathways, life is a delicate, intricate series of reactions.

Those who study such pathways and understand those reactions hold the key to providing solutions for some of our biggest questions - Why do we age and can that process be decelerated? What causes Alzheimer's? Can the metastasizing of cancer be blocked?

One of the fastest growing scientific disciplines is also one of the youngest – biochemistry. Biochemistry is the application of atomic and molecular principles to the function of life processes. Biochemistry is the science that studies the molecular basis for the processes that take place in all living organisms-plant, animal or human. The B.S. in biochemistry curriculum at SDSU builds upon a solid foundation in chemistry, and incorporates selected aspects of biology, physics and mathematics to complete the undergraduate degree. Training in biochemistry at the undergraduate level positions students well for careers in biotechnology, pharmaceutical development, government laboratories and is very appropriate as a pre-professional course of study.

Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
  • Are curious about the natural world.
  • Enjoy the life sciences, chemistry and math.
  • Like to do research and experiments in the lab.
  • Are detail oriented.
  • Enjoy research.
Career Opportunities
Explore possible career opportunities with this degree:
  • Medical researcher
  • Industrial or agricultural biochemist
  • Teacher
  • Physician or other health-care professional
  • Pharmaceutical sales representative
Recent Employers
Graduates have gone on to work at employers such as:
  • Sanford-USD Medical School
  • Poet
  • Avera Research
Internship Opportunities
We have provided the following internship opportunities:
  • Sanford Research Institute
  • Avera Research Institute
  • Hematech
Clubs & Organizations
We offer the following extracurricular clubs to participate in:
  • Student Affiliates of the American Chemical Society
  • Pre-Medical Chapter of the American Medical Student Association
  • Pre-Physical and Pre-Occupational Therapy Club
  • Pre-Professional Science Club
Suggested Certificates
View of the US Capitol building.
Lobbying and Government Advocacy Certificate (Undergraduate)
New Product and Venture Development Certificate
New Product and Venture Development Certificate (Undergraduate)
Students in lab
Pharmacology Certificate (Undergraduate)
Leading meeting
Public Service Certificate (Undergraduate)
Suggested Minors
Students in a lab.
Microbiology Minor
Students making medication in lab
Pharmacology and Toxicology Minor
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Professional Communication Minor
Students sitting at a table as professor talks to them in class.
Psychology Minor