Biochemistry is a sweeping term that encompasses a broad range of scientific disciplines in the field of biology. It resides at the intersection of chemistry and biology, providing a way to study life at the molecular level, which helps humankind take a closer look at the foundations that support life itself. Through this field, people are able to understand diverse topics ranging from DNA to evolution, from genetics to diseases of all kinds. Biochemistry is also responsible for the creation of lifesaving drugs, the development of food and agriculture, and can even help solve crimes forensically.
If any of these topics sound like an exciting way to spend your career as a scientist, you can consider getting your biochemistry degree. As a biochemistry major, you’ll be expected to take a number of compulsory classes that will give you a broader scope of knowledge to work with and a specialization in disciplines like immunology, virology, and more.
Taking a microbiology course will have you studying organisms at a microscopic level through microbiology, including viruses, fungi, and bacteria that makes it relevant to fields like medicine and disease. You may also be studying molecular and cellular biology, which will involve an understanding of complex chemical reactions and chemical properties inside of a cell or tissue. Usually, this comes with a focus on DNA and genetics. Biology is a rather hands-on degree, meaning you’ll likely do a lot of lab work while handling biological and chemical substances. A sizable research project is also typically expected during such courses.
To obtain your biochemistry degree, you will want to strive for an A-level chemistry degree as well as another science like physics or biology; at least an AS-level degree is preferable. The transferable skills that you learn on your way to this degree, paired with the sheer knowledge, will prepare you for your career. Biochemistry imparts plenty of soft skills as well, including strong analytical skills and data understanding, attention to detail, decision-making skills, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work both independently and as a team.
Once you have received your degree and all of the knowledge that comes with it, you can take it to any number of different fields. The most commonly entered disciplines of biochemistry include clinical industries, biological fields, environmental projects, toxicology, bioengineering, researching agriculture, drugs and food, or even production of synthetic medicine. Many times, biochemistry students will go on to become science teachers or lecturers while others continue on with their studies to achieve a PhD level in their field.
On top of being able to pursue a career surrounding your passions for biochemistry, you will also be securing yourself a commercially valuable degree that will present you with many well-paid employment options. Biochemists will always be needed for development of new drugs, helping at crime scenes, researching food and disease, and other important aspects of life. If you want to make a difference in the world at large and advance humankind’s understanding of life itself, consider a rewarding degree in biochemistry.
