Careers

What can I do with my Biochemistry & Molecular Biology degree?
Is there a demand for Biochemists and Molecular Biologists?
What is the job placement rate for your graduates?
How does your program prepare graduates for a career in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology?

What can I do with my Biochemistry & Molecular Biology degree?
The Bachelor of Science with a major in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology is an interdisciplinary program offered jointly by the Departments of Biology and Chemistry. It is designed to prepare students for graduate-level education or careers in biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, and related biotechnology fields.

Most graduates with this degree conduct research in the fields of immunology, biophysics, pharmacology and neuroscience. Biological research continues to provide the building blocks necessary to develop solutions to human health problems, and to preserve and repair the natural environment.

Biological scientists mostly work independently in private industry, university, or government laboratories, often exploring new areas of research or expanding on specialized research they started in graduate school.

Is there a demand for biochemists & molecular biologists?
Expectations are high for new discoveries and new industries in these fields. Just as the 20th century was the “Century of Chemistry and Physics,” the 21st is predicted to be “The Century of Biology.” Creative people with a strong foundation in the life sciences will be needed in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, medicine, environmental science and conservation.

There is a great demand for bench scientists and researchers in St. Joseph and the surrounding region because of the area’s extensive life science industries. 

What is the job placement rate for your graduates?
The placement rate for students finding positions in their field or entering graduate school is estimated at over 90%.

How does your program prepare graduates for a career in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology?
Within the department, there is a great deal of positive interaction among students and faculty that relates directly to professional development in the life sciences and related fields. The department also provides a variety of internships and travel abroad opportunities. A high percentage of our students conduct individual research projects and make presentations of their findings at professional meetings. Faculty members have professional ties with industry and agencies that provide numerous opportunities for students.