Skip Navigation

University of Nebraska–Lincoln

Department

Taglines - We Do The Heavy Lifting

Program Description

ProgramThe Biochemistry major is somewhat similar to majors in Chemistry and Biological Sciences. Biochemistry requires more biology but less physics than Chemistry, and less biology but more physical sciences courses than Biological Sciences. The requirements for a minor in Chemistry are met by completing the requirements for the Biochemistry major.

Core science and math requirements for a
major in Biochemistry are:

  • Biological Sciences - 12 cr.
  • Chemistry - 21 to 24 cr.
  • Physics - 10 cr.
  • Math - 10 to 15 cr.
  • Biochemistry - 12 cr.

The Biochemistry portion begins with a 1 cr. seminar for freshmen and sophomores on Careers in Biochemistry, which provides an opportunity early in your education to explore the choices that await you. After completing some prerequisites in Chemistry, you will take a full year of Biochemistry core. Most students finish in their senior year with a very popular laboratory in Biochemical techniques and a new Majors-only course that introduces the practical aspects of interpreting and using the scientific literature.

To complement the science and math core, you select additional courses that fit your personal career objectives. Also, you are encouraged to gain practical research experience by working in the labs of biochemistry faculty. Faculty members will help you design and conduct an individual research project for credit.

The Biochemistry major is offered by both the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources (CASNR) and the College of Arts & Sciences (A&S). The primary difference is that more foreign language is required by A&S. This requirement is replaced in CASNR with courses in economics and communications. The same Biochemistry faculty direct your studies, regardless of the college you choose.  Click here to learn more about the differences between CASNR and A&S degree programs.

Click for sample 4-year programs of a Biochemistry major in A&S and CASNR.

For general information about majors in A&S and CASNR, please contact the respective admissions personnel.

College of Arts & Sciences:
Laura Hanzl
229 Burnett
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Lincoln, NE 68588-0388
(402) 472-6272
lhanzl2@unl.edu

College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources:
Laura Frey
103 Agricultural Hall
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Lincoln, NE 68583-0702
(402) 472-4445
lfrey2@unl.edu