Description | Skills | Experience | Sample Careers/Work Settings | Salary
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Description of Major

Biochemistry is the science in which the principles of chemistry, biology, genetics, mathematics and physics are focused on investigations of biomolecules, organelles, cells, tissues and organisms. It provides the basis for biotechnology and molecular biology techniques ranging from biomolecular computation and modeling to regulation of gene expression. Biochemists study the discrete characteristics of every organism and biological process. Biochemistry prepares students for careers in many areas of science, medicine, agriculture, and industry.

Courses include:

Principles of Biochemistry, Principles of Genetics, Metabolism and Molecular Biology, General Microbiology, Physical Chemistry

The Undergraduate Catalog shows a listing of Biochemistry courses, and the degree audit shows the curriculum course requirements for this major. If you are interested in expanding your career options, consider double-majoring and/or adding a minor.

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Skills You Develop In This Major

• Communication
• Operate scientific equipment
• Information handling & organization
• Biology theory & practical knowledge
• Statistical awareness
• Critical thinking
• Problem solving
• Technical skills
• Teamwork

Gaining Career-Related Experience

You are strongly encouraged to gain career-related experience prior to graduation in the form of an internship, summer job, or co-op. Course credit is available for this experience through the College of Agriculture and Sciences. You may or may not expect compensation from the employer.

Co-op is a program of alternating semesters of work and school. Paid work terms of increasing responsibility enable students to graduate with the minimum equivalent of one year of relevant work experience. Full-time enrollment during the semester prior to the first work term is required. You can begin co-op after completion of at least two semesters (30 credit hours) at NC State (one semester for transfers and graduate students). An NC State transcript must show grades and admission to a degree program. A minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.50 (3.00 for graduate students) is required. The Co-op Office web site lists the Orientation Schedule, which is the first step to program participation.

Internships are typically full-time during the summer or (for some) part-time during the semester. You can start interning or seeking summer jobs related to your field, whenever you are ready. The CALS Career Services office provides services to help you get started.

Participate in ePack, the Career Center's on-line system that connects employees with students through internship postings, on-campus interviews, information sessions, and resume searches. You may activate your ePack account at any time.

Internship Example

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Sample Career Titles and Possible Work Settings

The following lists provide a brief sampling of the kind of jobs and work environments you might find with a degree in this major. These titles and work settings are by no means an exhaustive listing. Because the world of work is always changing, over time job titles and work settings can change. The below listing is provided in hopes of giving you initial insight into a particular career field that would employ the skills and knowledge gained through this major.

Sample Career Titles	Sample Work Settings
Assistant Scientist	Hospital Laboratories
Biochemist	Research Facilities
Technical Sales Representative	Private Industry
Business Process Analyst	Biotechnology Firms
Research Assistant	Pharmaceutical Companies
Acquisition Logistics Manager	Agribusiness Companies

Careers Needing Advanced Degrees

• Research Scientist
• Pharmacist
• Medical Doctor
• Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehab Dietitian

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Salary

Baccalaureate - $ 32,972
From CALS Career Survey-2008-2009

The salary listed above is an average starting salary based on skills and experiences gained at the Bachelors level. Keep in mind that salary level typically increases with additional experience and/or educational degrees.

Furthermore, you may have the opportunity to mold an entry-level position into your dream job and subsequently increase your salary as you learn more, add responsibilities and gain experience.

NC State Related Organizations & Clubs

Biochemistry Club
Faculty Adviser: Dr. James Knopp, 515.5683, jaknopp@ncsu.edu

Health PAC
Faculty Adviser: Dr. Anita Flick, MD, 513-7312, anita_flick@ncsu.edu

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Site last modified April, 2009
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