Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry | St. Ambrose University
Source: http://www.sau.edu/academic-programs/bachelors/health-sciences/bs-biochemistry
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:11
Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry | St. Ambrose University
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Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry
Next semester starts 05/18/2026
Apply now
Request information
What is a BS in Biochemistry degree?
A BS in Biochemistry helps students
understand the chemical processes within living organisms and requires the understanding of chemistry and biology. Experience student-based research, a wide variety of hands-on labs, and an intersection of topics spanning multiple majors.
Reduce tuition by up to $24k
Get the details
Program at a glance
On-campus classes
120 credits
32 gen ed credits
33 chemistry credits
55 elective credits
1 capstone research sequence or internship is recommended
Reduce tuition by up to $24k
Get the details
Why earn a BS in Biochemistry?
Majoring in biochemistry offers a multidisciplinary approach to the sciences, allowing you to explore the molecular mechanisms that drive life processes. A degree in biochemistry can open pathways to advanced studies in medicine, pharmacy, or graduate research, enhancing your expertise and career prospects.
Research opportunities
Participate in research projects your first year, and as a junior and senior, you’ll lead individual projects.
Lab experience
Gain hands-on laboratory skills by working for the department as a laboratory prep worker.
Professional practice
Learn a variety of analysis techniques that are used in the industry.
Tailored programs
Tailor their studies to admission requirements of medical schools you're interested in by choosing from a wide variety of electives.
Career guidance
Explore health careers such as medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy.
Industry-standard equipment
Gain experience biotechnology, molecular genetics, pharmacology, toxicology, and more while working in modern labs.
What you’ll learn in your BS in Biochemistry program
Through both theoretical knowledge and laboratory skills, you'll learn to analyze complex biological systems and understand the molecular basis of health and disease. Along the way, you will gain interdisciplinary knowledge through our mathematics and biology courses as well.
Learn to design experiments and analyze complex data
Gain experience with industry-standard instrumentation
Develop reasoning and problem-solving skills
Collaborate with peers on lab projects and group assignments
Interpret research findings and connect them to broader biological concepts
Professors invested in your success
“The Chemistry Department at SAU is incredible. I transferred from a large university and quickly realized SAU is different: the professors are not in it for accolades or to work on research; they genuinely care about educating others, and they care about my success as a student.”
-Madeline Prestegaard '22
BS in Chemistry
Start my degree
Explore BS in Biochemistry courses
This degree requires you to complete a total of 120 credits.
You will complete 32 gen ed credits, 33
Chemistry credits, 55
elective credits, and
1 capstone research sequence or internship course.
Explore course sequence
View all courses
Sample courses
Class code
Class title
Credits
CHEM-105
+General Chemistry I
4 credits
CHEM-208
Organic Chemistry II
3 credits
CHEM 319
Biochemistry
3 credits
WI CHEM-419
Advanced Biochemistry
3 credits
How much does a BS in Biochemistry degree cost?
The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee.
You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses.
Explore the cost of attendance
.
Full-time student living on campus
Expense
By semester
By year
Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)*
$19,674
$39,348
Housing**
$4,313
$8,625
Food***
$3,135
$6,270
Technology fee
$150
$300
Total direct charges (billable)
$27,272
$54,543
*Based on 2026-2027 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections.
***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.
How much does campus housing cost?
When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there’s something for everyone. The cost of our housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose.
Explore campus housing
St. Ambrose University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Accreditation and recognitions provide the assurance we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.
See all of SAU’s accreditations
How does SAU support Biochemistry students?
Our Biochemistry faculty uses evidence-based practices in the classroom. They're active members of several professional organizations and attend workshops and conferences to keep up-to-date in the field.
Biochemistry faculty
Andrew Axup, PhD
Kelly Giddens, PhD
Ritu Gurung, PhD
Other support resources
Student Success Center
At St. Ambrose, we want you to thrive. Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our
Student Success Center
.
Explore academic support services
Accessibility Resource Center
Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our
Accessibility Resource Center
is here to help.
Learn about our resources
Career Services
Our
Academic and Career Planning Center
is ready to help you polish your resume and land the job or internship that will launch your career.
Discover career support
Are there scholarships available for BS in Biochemistry?
SAU believes that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to make college more affordable for our students, providing the resources they need to succeed academically and financially.
Ambrose Advantage Scholarship
Through the Ambrose Advantage scholarship program, a tuition-free St. Ambrose University education is available to any Pell Grant-eligible Iowans.
Learn more about the Ambrose Advantage
.
Merit-Based and Institutional Scholarships
St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics, or your community involvement.
Explore SAU scholarships
.
Transfer credits
At SAU, you may be able to transfer previous college credit toward your bachelor’s degree, saving you significant time and money.
Learn how to transfer credits
.
Focus on your career. Not debt.
"Cost is obviously a big thing for anybody going to college. When I found out about the Ambrose Advantage, it took the stress off me and my family. Now I can focus on my classes and getting a start on my career."
Bailey Hird, Fairfield, IA
Explore Ambrose Advantage
What’s on campus for Biochemistry students?
Join our active chapter of the American Chemical Society (ACS) here on campus. We meet monthly for activities and speakers, and through community outreach activities, we work to inspire the next generation of chemists.
Friendly atmosphere to help you grow
"The Chemistry Club is one of the closest groups on campus, and one of the best. All of the members are super friendly,"
-Nick Schaffner, BS in Chemistry, 2021
Visit campus
What are the general admission requirements for a BS in Biochemistry?
Ready to become a Bee? Here are the admissions requirements for our Biochemistry program.
You must have graduated from an accredited high school or earned a GED.
You must have a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 2.5.
You must provide an official high school transcript.
Apply now
International student requirements
If you live outside of the U.S. there are different admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
Official transcripts from secondary education
A minimum 2.5 CGPA out of a 4.0 scale or equivalent
Proof of English language proficiency (minimum scores: TOEFL - 79, IELTS - 6.0)
Copy of your passport and other documentation
What can I do with a BS in Biochemistry degree?
Your degree can help you reach your professional goals. SAU can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. Here are potential job titles, traits and settings a graduate in our BS in Biochemistry program could achieve.
Potential Job Titles
Medical Doctor / Physician
Dentist
Agricultural and Food Science Technician
Pharmacist
Medical Scientist
Chemical Technician
Biochemist
Potential employment settings
Research laboratories
Higher education
Pharmacies
Hospitals and medical care facilities
Government agencies
Forensic laboratories
Traits of a biochemist
Analytical thinking
Detail-oriented
Curiosity
Problem-solving skills
Communicative
Resilient
Industry facts
From May 2023, biochemists have a mean annual wage of $120,310.
Employment for biochemists and biophysicists has also increased 3.2%.
For more information on Chemistry employment and wages, visit the
Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook
.
News and events at SAU
From A(mbrose) to (Gen) Z
St. Ambrose University is proud to the host International Conference on Faith, Hope, and Renewal in the Catholic Church on April 24–26, 2026.
Read more
Sport management degree leads Ambrose grad to MiLB
Bailey Conner ’21 became who she was meant to be by being open to any number of unanticipated opportunities, both after enrolling at SAU.
Read more
Two St. Ambrose alumni named 2026 Great Iowa Nurses
St. Ambrose University is excited to announce two nursing alumni were named to the Great Iowa Nurses list.
Read more
View all news and events
Become who you are meant to be
With more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
Call: 563-333-6000
Request Information
Apply Now
Skip to main content
Apply Now
Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry
Next semester starts 05/18/2026
Apply now
Request information
What is a BS in Biochemistry degree?
A BS in Biochemistry helps students
understand the chemical processes within living organisms and requires the understanding of chemistry and biology. Experience student-based research, a wide variety of hands-on labs, and an intersection of topics spanning multiple majors.
Reduce tuition by up to $24k
Get the details
Program at a glance
On-campus classes
120 credits
32 gen ed credits
33 chemistry credits
55 elective credits
1 capstone research sequence or internship is recommended
Reduce tuition by up to $24k
Get the details
Why earn a BS in Biochemistry?
Majoring in biochemistry offers a multidisciplinary approach to the sciences, allowing you to explore the molecular mechanisms that drive life processes. A degree in biochemistry can open pathways to advanced studies in medicine, pharmacy, or graduate research, enhancing your expertise and career prospects.
Research opportunities
Participate in research projects your first year, and as a junior and senior, you’ll lead individual projects.
Lab experience
Gain hands-on laboratory skills by working for the department as a laboratory prep worker.
Professional practice
Learn a variety of analysis techniques that are used in the industry.
Tailored programs
Tailor their studies to admission requirements of medical schools you're interested in by choosing from a wide variety of electives.
Career guidance
Explore health careers such as medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy.
Industry-standard equipment
Gain experience biotechnology, molecular genetics, pharmacology, toxicology, and more while working in modern labs.
What you’ll learn in your BS in Biochemistry program
Through both theoretical knowledge and laboratory skills, you'll learn to analyze complex biological systems and understand the molecular basis of health and disease. Along the way, you will gain interdisciplinary knowledge through our mathematics and biology courses as well.
Learn to design experiments and analyze complex data
Gain experience with industry-standard instrumentation
Develop reasoning and problem-solving skills
Collaborate with peers on lab projects and group assignments
Interpret research findings and connect them to broader biological concepts
Professors invested in your success
“The Chemistry Department at SAU is incredible. I transferred from a large university and quickly realized SAU is different: the professors are not in it for accolades or to work on research; they genuinely care about educating others, and they care about my success as a student.”
-Madeline Prestegaard '22
BS in Chemistry
Start my degree
Explore BS in Biochemistry courses
This degree requires you to complete a total of 120 credits.
You will complete 32 gen ed credits, 33
Chemistry credits, 55
elective credits, and
1 capstone research sequence or internship course.
Explore course sequence
View all courses
Sample courses
Class code
Class title
Credits
CHEM-105
+General Chemistry I
4 credits
CHEM-208
Organic Chemistry II
3 credits
CHEM 319
Biochemistry
3 credits
WI CHEM-419
Advanced Biochemistry
3 credits
How much does a BS in Biochemistry degree cost?
The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee.
You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses.
Explore the cost of attendance
.
Full-time student living on campus
Expense
By semester
By year
Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)*
$19,674
$39,348
Housing**
$4,313
$8,625
Food***
$3,135
$6,270
Technology fee
$150
$300
Total direct charges (billable)
$27,272
$54,543
*Based on 2026-2027 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections.
***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.
How much does campus housing cost?
When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there’s something for everyone. The cost of our housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose.
Explore campus housing
St. Ambrose University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Accreditation and recognitions provide the assurance we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.
See all of SAU’s accreditations
How does SAU support Biochemistry students?
Our Biochemistry faculty uses evidence-based practices in the classroom. They're active members of several professional organizations and attend workshops and conferences to keep up-to-date in the field.
Biochemistry faculty
Andrew Axup, PhD
Kelly Giddens, PhD
Ritu Gurung, PhD
Other support resources
Student Success Center
At St. Ambrose, we want you to thrive. Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our
Student Success Center
.
Explore academic support services
Accessibility Resource Center
Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our
Accessibility Resource Center
is here to help.
Learn about our resources
Career Services
Our
Academic and Career Planning Center
is ready to help you polish your resume and land the job or internship that will launch your career.
Discover career support
Are there scholarships available for BS in Biochemistry?
SAU believes that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to make college more affordable for our students, providing the resources they need to succeed academically and financially.
Ambrose Advantage Scholarship
Through the Ambrose Advantage scholarship program, a tuition-free St. Ambrose University education is available to any Pell Grant-eligible Iowans.
Learn more about the Ambrose Advantage
.
Merit-Based and Institutional Scholarships
St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics, or your community involvement.
Explore SAU scholarships
.
Transfer credits
At SAU, you may be able to transfer previous college credit toward your bachelor’s degree, saving you significant time and money.
Learn how to transfer credits
.
Focus on your career. Not debt.
"Cost is obviously a big thing for anybody going to college. When I found out about the Ambrose Advantage, it took the stress off me and my family. Now I can focus on my classes and getting a start on my career."
Bailey Hird, Fairfield, IA
Explore Ambrose Advantage
What’s on campus for Biochemistry students?
Join our active chapter of the American Chemical Society (ACS) here on campus. We meet monthly for activities and speakers, and through community outreach activities, we work to inspire the next generation of chemists.
Friendly atmosphere to help you grow
"The Chemistry Club is one of the closest groups on campus, and one of the best. All of the members are super friendly,"
-Nick Schaffner, BS in Chemistry, 2021
Visit campus
What are the general admission requirements for a BS in Biochemistry?
Ready to become a Bee? Here are the admissions requirements for our Biochemistry program.
You must have graduated from an accredited high school or earned a GED.
You must have a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 2.5.
You must provide an official high school transcript.
Apply now
International student requirements
If you live outside of the U.S. there are different admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
Official transcripts from secondary education
A minimum 2.5 CGPA out of a 4.0 scale or equivalent
Proof of English language proficiency (minimum scores: TOEFL - 79, IELTS - 6.0)
Copy of your passport and other documentation
What can I do with a BS in Biochemistry degree?
Your degree can help you reach your professional goals. SAU can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. Here are potential job titles, traits and settings a graduate in our BS in Biochemistry program could achieve.
Potential Job Titles
Medical Doctor / Physician
Dentist
Agricultural and Food Science Technician
Pharmacist
Medical Scientist
Chemical Technician
Biochemist
Potential employment settings
Research laboratories
Higher education
Pharmacies
Hospitals and medical care facilities
Government agencies
Forensic laboratories
Traits of a biochemist
Analytical thinking
Detail-oriented
Curiosity
Problem-solving skills
Communicative
Resilient
Industry facts
From May 2023, biochemists have a mean annual wage of $120,310.
Employment for biochemists and biophysicists has also increased 3.2%.
For more information on Chemistry employment and wages, visit the
Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook
.
News and events at SAU
From A(mbrose) to (Gen) Z
St. Ambrose University is proud to the host International Conference on Faith, Hope, and Renewal in the Catholic Church on April 24–26, 2026.
Read more
Sport management degree leads Ambrose grad to MiLB
Bailey Conner ’21 became who she was meant to be by being open to any number of unanticipated opportunities, both after enrolling at SAU.
Read more
Two St. Ambrose alumni named 2026 Great Iowa Nurses
St. Ambrose University is excited to announce two nursing alumni were named to the Great Iowa Nurses list.
Read more
View all news and events
Become who you are meant to be
With more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
Call: 563-333-6000
Request Information
Apply Now