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Biochemistry
At a Glance
Biochemistry combines biology and chemistry to explore the molecular mechanisms of life. TCNJ offers a flexible biochemistry curriculum, research opportunities, and mentorship from faculty to ensure you’ll develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills using state-of-the-art instrumentation. Our rigorous, American Chemical Society-accredited program provides a strong foundation for pursuing careers in medicine, research, or industry.
Undergraduate Program
Biochemistry Specialization
within chemistry
You’ll Benefit From:
- Expert faculty leading an American Chemical Society-approved program
- Dedicated support and student-centered classes to help you succeed
- A flexible curriculum with your choice of specializations, concentrations, or tracks
- State-of-the-art technology, facilities, and specialized software
- A nearly 100% placement rate for job-seekers within 6 months of graduation
- A high acceptance rate for PhD, medical/osteopathic, dental, pharmacy, and law programs
- Opportunities for faculty-mentored research, internships, and student groups
- Extensive preparation for careers or graduate school
- Strong faculty advising and access to TCNJ’s robust alumni network
- An ideal location near many regional chemical companies who look for applicants with chemistry degrees
- Guidance on premedical and allied health paths from the Medical Careers Advisory Committee
Careers
As a chemistry major, you can choose to enter the chemical profession, pursue graduate work, or launch a career in chemical education. TCNJ is located in the middle of New Jersey’s “Pharmaceutical Alley,” home to many potential employers ranging from flavor and fragrance manufacturers and cosmetic companies to materials manufacturers and chemical/environmental testing companies.
The vast majority of recent graduates have chosen to enter professional schools (dentistry, medicine, Optometry, or podiatry), studying at top institutions.
Recent Employers
- Bristol Myers Squibb
- Dow Chemical
- ExxonMobil
- International Flavors and Fragrances
- L’Oreal
Recent Graduate Schools
- Johns Hopkins University
- Rutgers University
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- University of Pennsylvania
- Yale University
Undergraduate Research Opportunities
You are strongly encouraged to engage in independent research during the academic year through independent study courses (CHE 493) and during the summer through the Mentored Undergraduate Summer Experience (MUSE). You can participate in research programs with faculty members in each subdiscipline of chemistry in well-equipped research laboratories. Some projects have multidisciplinary aspects and involve collaborations within and outside the department.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
One of the biggest advantages to studying chemistry at TCNJ is the access you’ll have to state-of-the-art lab facilities starting on Day One. Our faculty will train you to become an independent scholar by incorporating hands-on practice with exceptional instrumentation into coursework and research.
Faculty
Chemistry faculty members pride themselves on prioritizing regular interaction and engagement with each student. Faculty advisors will meet regularly with you to assist in defining educational paths that best align with your career goals. They also provide assistance through a comprehensive seminar program that incorporates discussions of the roles and responsibilities of chemists in today’s society and introduces you to the “tools of the trade.”
