Biochemistry
Apply Chemistry to Everyday Life. Our Biochemistry major weaves biology and chemistry courses to provide an understanding of biological systems at the molecular level. Coursework emphasizes data analysis and problem solving along with broad scientific literacy, basic laboratory techniques and relevant computer applications. Laboratories that prioritize hands-on experience are an integral part of biochemistry courses. Our challenging and explorative curriculum prepares you for a successful career in healthcare, research, writing, education, public health or management.
Students who are interested in exploring how biochemistry intersects with the science of food and are interested in a career in food science are strongly encouraged to enroll in the Food Science sequence. This pathway offers a unique opportunity to apply molecular science to real-world challenges in nutrition, sustainability, and innovation within the food industry.
View a sample program plan to see what courses you'll take in our Biochemistry program.
Learn MoreBiochemistry
Apply Chemistry to Everyday Life. Our Biochemistry major weaves biology and chemistry courses to provide an understanding of biological systems at the molecular level. Coursework emphasizes data analysis and problem solving along with broad scientific literacy, basic laboratory techniques and relevant computer applications. Laboratories that prioritize hands-on experience are an integral part of biochemistry courses. Our challenging and explorative curriculum prepares you for a successful career in healthcare, research, writing, education, public health or management.
Students who are interested in exploring how biochemistry intersects with the science of food and are interested in a career in food science are strongly encouraged to enroll in the Food Science sequence. This pathway offers a unique opportunity to apply molecular science to real-world challenges in nutrition, sustainability, and innovation within the food industry.
View a sample program plan to see what courses you'll take in our Biochemistry program.
Mount Mary faculty can help you find off-campus summer research opportunities and internships, as well as guide you through student-designed research projects on campus. Internships are not required for Biochemistry majors, but they are encouraged to allow you the opportunity to find out more about careers you’re interested in and make connections with industry professionals.
Mount Mary students have interned at:
- Food technology laboratories
- Food manufacturing companies
- Milwaukee County Zoo
- Milwaukee Public Museum
- Research and development microbiology laboratories
- Veterinary clinics
Kathleen Boyle, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Biology
Phone: (414) 930-3528
Email: boylek@mtmary.edu
Expertise: Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Genetics, Virology
Jeremy Edison, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Division Chair and Director, Mathematics
Email: edisonj@mtmary.edu
Phone: (414) 930-3463
Office: Fidelis Hall 223
Christine Hoffmann, DC, MHA
Assistant Professor of Sciences
Phone: (414) 930-3361
Email: hoffmanc@mtmary.edu
Expertise: Anatomy, Physiology, Exercise Physiology, Neurobiology
Victoria Fisher-Keough
Assistant Professor of Biochemistry
Phone: (414) 930-3550
Email: fisherv@mtmary.edu
Expertise: Biochemistry, Chemical Education, Environmental Science, Criminalistics
Rachel Jones Lipinski, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Biochemistry
Phone: (414) 930-3353
Email: joneslr@mtmary.edu
Expertise: Biochemistry, Glycochemistry, Chemical Biology, Organic Chemistry
Louise C. Kessler, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Biology
Phone: (414) 930-3301
Email: kesslerl@mtmary.edu
Expertise: Microbiology, Prokaryotic Gene Regulation, Cell Biology, Molecular Techniques
Rita M. Quinones de Magalhaes, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Biology
Phone: (414) 930-3365
Email: magalhar@mtmary.edu
Expertise: Fire Ecology, Plant Ecology, Intro Bio, Metacognition, Inclusive Practices
Anne E. Vravick, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Food Science
Phone: (414) 930-3497
Email: vravicka@mtmary.edu
Expertise: Food Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Toxicology
The career and professional outlook for biochemistry majors is strong and diverse, offering opportunities across science, healthcare, industry, public service—and even unexpected fields. A degree in biochemistry allows you to pursue entry-level positions such as research assistant, laboratory technician, clinial lab assistant, quality control analyst, pharmaceutical sales representaive and development technician. Graduates are equipped with strong analytical, laboratory and problem-solving skills that are highly valued across sectors. Many Biochemistry graduates choose to pursue advanced degrees to deepen their expertise or expand their career options, such as medical school, dental school, pharmacy school, Ph.D. programs, biomedical engineering and law school. With advanced study, you could become a dentist, pharmacist, doctor or veterinarian.
With a concentration or minor in food science you could pursue a career developing and improving food products as a food technician, food safety auditor, quality control analyst, or nutrition research assistant. Many students with a bBiochemistry degree with a concentration in food science go on to graduate school to become a food scientist, lawyer, doctor or dietitian.
According to 2023 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics the median annual salary for biochemistry/biophysics jobs is $86,620. An undergraduate biochemistry degree lets you can pursue entry-level positions in research and laboratory work. With advanced study, you could work in positions such as pharmeceuticals, biotechnology and research.
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