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What Can You Do with a Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Degree?

A degree in biochemistry and molecular biology can lead to careers in research, biotechnology, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, laboratory science, bioinformatics, clinical research, and more. Graduates work as molecular biologists, biochemists, biomedical researchers, and other science professionals or pursue graduate programs like medical school.

What is a Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Degree?

Biochemistry and molecular biology explore how living systems work at the molecular and cellular level. Students study DNA, RNA, proteins, enzymes, and other molecules. They learn how these molecules affect processes such as metabolism, gene expression, cell signaling, and disease.

This degree can prepare you to study human health, develop new medicines, and better understand disease. You also gain hands-on experience and scientific skills to get started in the field.

A professor walking through a chemistry lab experiment with two students

What Skills Do You Learn as a Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Major?

By studying biochemistry, students learn about chemical processes, biological processes, and how they work together. Through hands-on laboratory work, students develop technical and transferable skills such as:

  • Bioinformatics
  • Collaboration and teamwork
  • Critical thinking
  • Data analysis
  • Experimental design
  • Lab techniques and safety protocols
  • Molecular and cellular analysis
  • Problem-solving
  • Quantitative reasoning
  • Research design
  • Scientific communication and technical writing
  • Scientific methods

What Jobs Can You Get With a Major in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology?

A biochemistry and molecular biology degree can lead to a wide variety of industries, roles, and functions. It can be hard to understand what roles are available and what each job does. Learn more about three common career paths and what you can expect from each one.

  • Molecular Biologist

    What does a Molecular Biologist do? Studies how cells, genes, and other biological molecules work. Molecular biologists often work in research, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare.

    Education: A bachelor's degree in related fields can qualify graduates for some entry-level roles in research and lab work. Many positions require a master's or Ph.D.

    Example Employers in Oregon: Oregon Health & Science University, Genentech, OHSU Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Absci, and Micro Systems Engineering

  • Biochemist

    What Does a Biochemist Do? Uses chemistry and biology to understand processes in living organisms. Biochemists may conduct research, develop medicines, analyze biological samples, or work in biotechnology.

    Education: A bachelor's degree in related fields can lead to some positions in research and lab work, but a master's degree or Ph.D. is required for advanced research.

    Example Employers in Oregon: Genentech, Oregon Health & Science University, Novogene - Beaverton Lab, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Twist Bioscience, and Quest Diagnostics

  • Biomedical Scientist

    What Does a Biomedical Scientist Do? Conducts research to better understand diseases and develop new treatments, diagnostic tools, and therapies. Biomedical scientists work in universities, hospitals, research institutions, and biotech or pharmaceutical companies.

    Education: Many roles require a master's degree or a Ph.D. However, some laboratory positions and assistant roles are available for those with a relevant bachelor's degree.

    Example Employers in Oregon: Oregon Health & Science University, OHSU Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute, The Oregon National Primate Research Center, Children's Cancer Therapy Development Institute, and Genentech

However, there are other roles a graduate can pursue. Learn more about roles within different categories to understand the breadth that this degree provides.

Explore how living things work, conduct experiments, and make new scientific discoveries.

Use biology and chemistry to develop medicines, technologies, and products that improve people's lives.

  • Biotechnology Scientist
  • Clinical Research Scientist
  • Drug Discovery Scientist
  • Genomics Scientist
  • Medical Science Liaison
  • Pharmaceutical Researcher
  • Pharmacologist
  • Quality Control Specialist
  • Regulatory Affairs Specialist

Use computers, data, and biology to understand complex information about living things.

  • Bioinformatician
  • Bioinformatics Analyst
  • Computational Biologist
  • Computational Research Assistant
  • Genomics Data Analyst

Apply science to diagnose diseases, improve healthcare, and protect the health of communities.

  • Clinical Research Coordinator
  • Medical Laboratory Scientist
  • Public Health Scientist

Explain scientific ideas and use research to help shape decisions, policies, and public understanding.

  • Medical Writer
  • Regulatory Scientist
  • Science Communications Specialist
  • Science Policy Advisor
  • Scientific Writer
  • Technical Writer

Use your science background as a foundation for careers that care for patients, improve health, and treat disease.

*Actual salaries vary by role, industry, experience, location, and education. Many careers (especially in medicine and advanced research positions) may require or benefit from additional degrees, education, or certifications, so talk with an advisor for specific career paths.

What Education Do You Need for a Career in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology?

A bachelor's degree in biochemistry and molecular biology can prepare you for entry-level jobs in laboratories, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and other science fields. Some careers in research, medicine, and healthcare require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. Your education needs will depend on the career you choose.

Is Biochemistry and Molecular Biology a Good Major?

Biochemistry and molecular biology may be a good major if you are interested in how living systems work at the molecular level and enjoy studying biology and chemistry. Expect to take challenging courses in areas such as organic chemistry, biology, and chemistry, and to develop skills in research, laboratory work, and analyzing scientific evidence. Consider whether you enjoy both the subject matter and the hands-on, analytical work involved in studying it.

A student working on a biochemistry lab assignment in a row of other students

Is Biochemistry and Molecular Biology a Hard Major?

It can be a challenging major because it combines upper-level chemistry and biology with time-intensive lab work. Courses build on one another, so students need strong study habits, problem-solving skills, and the ability to retain information. At Willamette, students can get additional support through faculty office hours, tutoring, academic advising, and the QUAD Center. We encourage students to use these additional support options to turn a challenging major into a manageable one.

A student working with a pipet in a lab

Is a Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Degree Worth It?

A degree can be worth it for students interested in biotechnology, lab research, medicine, pharmaceuticals, or graduate study. The value of the degree depends on the career you choose. Some jobs are open to graduates with a bachelor's degree. Other careers in research, medicine, and healthcare may require a graduate or professional degree.

In fact, biochemists earn between $84,000 and $139,353 on average, while some roles, such as pharmacologists, can pay up to $249,000. This degree can lead to a range of career paths with strong earning potential. Salary depends on your role, location, and industry, so keep that in mind when considering the value of the degree.

A student's hands in purple gloves conducting a chemistry experiment

Is a Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Major Good for Pre-Med?

Biochemistry and molecular biology can be an excellent pre-med major, but medical schools do not require or prefer a particular undergraduate major. It also prepares students for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), as the test covers a lot of biochemistry and molecular biology concepts. Students can also conduct research and gain mentors within the field who help with their medical school application process.

Two students in white lab coats working with a cadaver in an anatomy lab

Why Choose Willamette for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology?

If you're interested in any health career, you'll find a community of advice and support. We offer a pre-health program that connects students with one-on-one advising, graduate application support, and even career possibilities. Medical school and doctoral degrees may require specific courses or clinical experience, so our advisors can guide you through your specific goals. We offer two courses focused on health careers that feature visiting speakers and professional support.

Health Professions Advising
Career Development Center

At Willamette, research isn't reserved for graduate students. Many of our undergraduate students conduct research projects independently or alongside professors. We offer more than 75 competitive undergraduate research grants annually and a Science Collaborative Research Program to help students gain experience. We also encourage internships and have a culture of celebrating student research.

Students can explore instrumentation that supports DNA and protein analysis, chromatography and spectroscopy, and high-resolution imaging. Use our microscopy lab, anatomy lab, or another science research lab to conduct research you're passionate about.

Research
Academic Facilities

Build a deeper understanding of biology, chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology through a liberal arts lens. Develop skills like communication, critical thinking, and adaptability alongside your scientific training. Students can also join a variety of clubs to help build their resume and graduate application. Discuss subjects with peers and mentors to collaborate and explore the sciences outside of the classroom.

Academics
Clubs

No matter what you're interested in, you'll find a community that is rooting for you. Our majors include important courses that help prepare you for graduate programs and the job market. Students can build strong relationships with professors, thanks to small class sizes and faculty members who are invested in your future. We'll also support all types of learning, working with you to study abroad as a science major and challenge your perception of the world.

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Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

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    900 State Street
    Salem Oregon 97301 U.S.A.