Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Major

Explore the biochemistry and molecular biology bachelor's degree program at UW-Eau Claire

Find a cure for a deadly disease, develop life-saving vaccines or genetically engineer new strains of crops with a biochemistry and molecular biology degree from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.

An excellent path for those interested in both chemistry and biology, the biochemistry and molecular biology program focuses on the study of life processes at the molecular level. You'll study how molecules control heredity, development, aging and mental activity, as well as how abnormalities in these molecules can lead to diseases like cancer.

Collaborative research opportunities, real-world projects and training on leading-edge technology will allow you to be at the forefront of innovation. Many of our biochemistry and molecular biology graduates go on to pursue research in government laboratories, clinics and the biotechnology industry, finding ways to save lives and change the world for the better.

students with poster at Rotunda — Supercomputing within the health sciences

Biochemistry and molecular biology graduate Caterra Leavens co-authored a peer-reviewed journal during her time at UWEC, which used supercomputing capabilities to study COVID-19 variants. This rare access to research is common here — and job interviewers will take notice.

“Everyone wanted to ask me about these computational studies I’ve worked on,” Caterra said. “They just couldn’t believe that undergraduates are getting that kind of experience. People were truly blown away by that.”

Learn more about supercomputing research opportunities at UWEC.

Why biochemistry and molecular biology at UW-Eau Claire?

Diverse and laboratory-intensive curriculum. The program's comprehensive and interdisciplinary curriculum gives you real experience in both chemistry and the biological sciences. You'll spend a great deal of time in the lab applying what you learn in the classroom.

Innovative facilities and leading-edge technology. UW-Eau Claire's laboratories are well-equipped with up-to-date instruments, including a DNA synthesizer and sequencer, a liquid chromatography/mass spectrometer, confocal microscopy, superconducting nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, real-time PCR analyzer and transmission and scanning electron microscopes.

Exceptional collections. Explore hundreds of thousands of specimens right on campus. UW-Eau Claire is home to extensive collections of amphibians, reptiles, fish, insects, invertebrates, mammals and birds as well as saltwater aquaria and a herbarium.

Expert faculty who know what employers are looking for. Our knowledgeable and supportive faculty prepare graduates to be successful scientists. In addition to technical skills and modern techniques, you'll also enhance your skills in communication, problem-solving, experimental design, data analysis and creative thinking.

Collaborative research and internship opportunities. Through our student-faculty collaborative research program, you will have opportunities to participate in fascinating research projects (some of which are paid experiences or can be done for credit) and work one-on-one with a professor in their field. These research experiences make UW-Eau Claire students competitive applicants for internships at Mayo Clinic and other prestigious facilities and often lead to full-time jobs after graduation.

230

acres of natural area right on campus

16

on-campus teaching laboratories

94% employed

or continuing education after graduation

2021-2022 Graduate Report

Blugolds Sebastian Torres (left) and Nathan Hau at Mayo Clinic Health System — Industry-changing research

When Sebastian Torres and Nathan Hau came to UW-Eau Claire, they didn't know they'd have an opportunity to study in Mayo Clinic Health System operating rooms. They were part of the Mayo Clinic Undergraduate Research Employment Program (UREP), a summer program that pairs physicians with high-achieving undergraduate student researchers — including those at UWEC.

Read more about Sebastian's and Nathan's research experience at UWEC.

Quick facts

Biochemistry and molecular biology program details

Program length: four years
Offered: in person
Campus: Eau Claire
This major does not require a minor.
Students majoring in this program may choose either a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) degree.

Student organizations

Biology Club
American Chemical Society - Student Affiliate
Women and Gender Minorities in STEM
Conservationists
Molecular Movement
Pre-Professional Health Club
Reef Team
Tri Beta Society

What can I do with a biochemistry and molecular biology degree from UWEC?

UW-Eau Claire will prepare you well for a career in the high-tech and groundbreaking field of biochemistry and molecular biology. Graduates find themselves ready for many different career paths and opportunities.

Where are biochemistry and molecular biology alumni now?

Laboratory technologist, Medical College of Wisconsin, Wisconsin
Assistant scientist, PDD, Inc., Wisconsin
Health care assistant, Hennepin County Medical Center, Minnesota
Scientist, Boston Scientific, Minnesota
Nephrologist/transplant physician, Mayo Clinic Health System, Wisconsin
Ph.D. student, Ohio State University, Ohio
Ph.D. student, Northwestern University, Illinois