Biochemistry

Grounded in research and collaboration, we radiate discovery. Valpo biochemistry students embark on a path of molecular understanding with the goal of solving some of the world’s most pressing issues.

Why Biochemistry at Valpo?

Our program blends rigorous academics with hands-on learning in state-of-the-art facilities. By graduation, students majoring in biochemistry will be prepared for fulfilling careers in agriculture, biotechnology, medicine, pharmaceuticals, and more.

Our Beacons engage in advanced laboratories and instrumentation starting year one. Expect to be in the lab designing experiments, utilizing cutting-edge equipment, collaborating with professors on research projects, and sharing your discoveries with classmates who are just as passionate as you.

107,460

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About Our Biochemistry Degree

Valpo’s biochemistry majors dive into research from day one, pairing rigorous courses with cutting‑edge lab work and faculty collaboration. The result: graduates ready to drive innovation in agriculture, biotech, medicine, pharmaceuticals, and more.

General Information

Career Outcomes

Average annual salary of $107,000 for biochemists and biophysicists, according to a 2023 report of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

With a strong foundation from Valpo, biochemistry graduates are making meaningful contributions to science and society, advancing healthcare, driving innovation in biotechnology, and leading groundbreaking research in diverse fields. Whether pursuing advanced degrees or thriving in the workforce, Valpo biochemistry alumni radiate excellence in roles such as:

Biochemist
Biotechnology specialist
Forensic scientist
Medical professional
Pharmaceutical scientist
Research scientist

Core Requirements

All students start their college journey with the Valparaiso University Experience (VUE), our core curriculum that builds upon the foundations of every major with an intellectual, emotional, and spiritual perspective. This University core is designed to encourage every Beacon to grow into caring, curious servant-leaders.

Major Requirements

Valpo’s biochemistry degree is designed for premed students or students who plan to pursue graduate studies or careers in biochemistry and chemical research. Our program encourages students to push the boundaries of scientific discovery, whether that be through collaborative research with professors, independent research, or internships with local hospitals, biotech companies, and labs.

These real-world experiences reside at the core of our 33-credit or 55-credit American Chemical Society-approved curricula, preparing students to lend their light to complex roles and illuminate solutions.

Major Requirements		Minimum 33 Chemistry Credits
CHEM 121	General Chemistry I	4 Cr.
CHEM 122	General Chemistry II	4 Cr.
CHEM 199	Chemistry Colloquium I	0 Cr.
CHEM 221	Organic Chemistry I	4 Cr.
CHEM 222	Organic Chemistry II	4 Cr.
CHEM 230	Quantitative Analysis	4 Cr.
CHEM 299	Chemistry Colloquium II	0 Cr.
CHEM 315	Biochemistry I	3 Cr.
CHEM 315L	Biochemistry I Lab	1 Cr.
CHEM 316	Biochemistry II	3 Cr.
CHEM 321	Physical Chemistry I	4 Cr.
CHEM 399	Chemistry Colloquium III	0 Cr.
CHEM 499	Chemistry Colloquium IV	0 Cr.

One Course from the Following Options:
CHEM 190	Introduction to Chemical Research	1 Cr.
CHEM 496	Directed Research in Chemistry	0 Cr.

Additional Requirements:
BIO 171	Unity of Life	4 Cr.
BIO 270	Genetics and Genome Evolution	4 Cr.

One Course from the Following Options:
BIO 450	Molecular Biology	4 Cr.
BIO 460	Cell Biology	4 Cr.

College of Arts & Sciences

Program Rankings & Highlights

79%

Biochemistry students have a medical school acceptance rate of 79% – nearly twice the national average.

American Chemical Society-Approved, Ensuring students graduate with the highest academic credentials.

Five student organizations only available to biochemistry majors

Shining Brightly, Together

Voices of Valpo

Biochemistry

“I chose Valpo because it offered the biochemistry program I was looking for and the chance to connect one-on-one with professors who are passionate about research. Coming to [Valpo] has given me hands-on experience that I couldn’t get back home, better preparing me for grad school and future opportunities.”

— Sara Tewoldemedhin ’26

Biochemistry

Program Research

Science is a process for investigating the mysteries of the world. Valpo students learn this through the department’s many opportunities for research — classroom projects, student-faculty collaborations, and independent research. Chemistry majors develop the necessary skills to operate independently as scientists.

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Meet Our Faculty

Professors. Mentors. Friends. At Valparaiso University, you will work on real-life problems alongside faculty leaders with decades of business experience and a true desire to do what’s best for you.

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