Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry / Molecular Biology
Program Overview & Goals
The Biochemistry and Molecular Biology major at Hendrix College provides students with an interdisciplinary foundation in biology, chemistry, and molecular science to understand life at the cellular and molecular levels. Through laboratory investigation, scientific inquiry, and collaborative research, students are prepared to make an impact in the research lab, medical fields, or beyond.
Via Hendrix
Whether your goals include completing an M.D., participating in scientific research, or running a clinic, you can get there Via Hendrix.
Our comprehensive four-year plan begins by asking where you want to go and then equips you with the guidance, experiences, and space for personal growth and achievement.
At Hendrix, career readiness is embedded in every course, project, and hands-on learning opportunity. This ensures that you are building toward a meaningful life filled with purpose, starting from day one when you arrive on the Hendrix campus.
Careers & Outcomes
The Hendrix Biochemistry / Molecular Biology (BCMB) major gives students a competitive edge as they continue to pursue their careers beyond Hendrix, whether that will be in research, medicine, or other scientific fields.
Salary Projections
The median salary for a physician is $239,200, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Top Industries
- Medical
- Dental
- Pharmaceutical
- Scientific Research
- Public Health
Career Options
Hendrix BCMB alumni have the knowledge base and the skills they need in order to successfully pursue a variety of science-related careers, including:
- Orthopedic Hand Surgeon
- Science Policy Fellow
- ENT-Otolaryngologist
- Senior Scientist
Co-op Opportunities
Experience separates good job candidates from great ones. At Hendrix, professional work experiences are guaranteed through our co-op program. Through this required component of the BCMB major, students can work at places including:
- Hospitals
- Clinics
- Research Labs
- Pharmacies
Roadmap to the Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry / Molecular Biology
Every BCMB major takes classes in biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, genetics, and molecular biology. Through experiential learning opportunities, you also develop laboratory skills, critical thinking, and the ability to design and analyze scientific experiments that address complex biological questions.
Year One
Our First-Year Experience course gives you the freedom to discover what you care about most and find a path to get there. In your first year you will take courses that lay the scientific groundwork in chemistry, biology, and mathematics so that you can move into more scientifically indepth work.
Year Two
In your second year, you will have a stronger vision of what your academic experience and career planning look like. Our Integrated Advising Team of faculty, career counselors, and mentors ensures that the things you study align with your future goals while still providing room to explore.
Year Three
Your third year includes a required full-time co-op. For one semester, you earn credit while applying knowledge from your coursework in a professional setting.
Year Four
Your last year is not the finish line. It is where everything starts. In the Senior Year Experience course, you will assemble and reflect on the body of work and experiences you have achieved in your time at Hendrix. You will be ready to present who you have become and the skills you have developed confidently.
Meet the Faculty
Every member of our full-time faculty in the Biochemistry / Molecular Biology program holds a Ph.D., demonstrating their expertise and close connection to the current pulse of their respective fields of study. Just as importantly, they are dedicated to you. They work closely with you as both teachers and mentors, supporting you every step of the way to your dream career.
Andrea A. Duina
Professor of Biology
Andres Caro
Cynthia Cook Sandefur Odyssey Professor of Chemistry
Chair, Biochemistry / Molecular Biology Program
Andrew M. Schurko
Professor of Biology
David Hales
Professor of Chemistry
Related Programs
At Hendrix, you can study biology, chemistry, and health sciences, or even build your own major that combines life sciences with research, medicine, and biotechnology pathways.
Your Next Steps Via Hendrix
Discover how science drives discovery and innovation in health and research. Learn how much value the Biochemistry / Molecular Biology major from Hendrix College can deliver for you as you prepare for impactful careers in medicine, research, and biotechnology.