Biochemistry B.S.

Explore the chemistry of life in a STEM-designated program built on hands-on research.

Biochemistry combines chemistry and biology to study the molecules that make life possible. In this STEM-designated major, you will investigate biological molecules and the chemistry that defines living organisms through rigorous coursework, hands-on laboratory experiences, and faculty-mentored research that prepares you for graduate study, medical school, or careers across the sciences.

Credit Hours
132
Time to Complete
4 Years
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This program is part of Chemistry & Biochemistry

What Set's Us Apart

The Manhattan University Difference

What Sets Us Apart

The Biochemistry major at Manhattan University prepares students to explore the molecular basis of life through a rigorous, STEM-designated curriculum that bridges chemistry and biology. Students gain hands-on experience in modern laboratories, conduct original research alongside faculty mentors, and graduate prepared for medical school, graduate study, or careers across the scientific workforce.

STEM-Designated Program

Biochemistry is a federally recognized STEM-designated program, reflecting the rigorous scientific and technical training that today's research and healthcare employers demand.

Courses Taught by Faculty

Every course is taught by faculty members, never graduate students, so you learn directly from the scientists who know your goals.

 

Research-Grade Instrumentation

Work hands-on with X-ray crystallography, NMR and FTIR spectroscopy, and high-performance liquid chromatography in laboratories equipped for serious scientific work.

Pre-Health and Graduate Advising

Advisors in the Center for Graduate School and Fellowship Advisement help you clarify career goals and prepare for medical or graduate school.

Small, Supportive Classes

Small class sizes mean your professors get to know you, how you learn, and how to best help you succeed.

 

ACS Certification Pathway

Through careful elective choices, you can meet American Chemical Society certification requirements and graduate with a nationally recognized professional credential.

Why Study Biochemistry
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The Manhattan Advantage

Why Study Biochemistry at Manhattan University?

Biochemistry is a unique discipline at the intersection of chemistry and biology, and one of the fastest-growing research fields in science. At Manhattan University, biochemistry majors study the molecules that define living organisms through rigorous coursework and hands-on laboratory work, guided by faculty who teach every course themselves. With access to funded research opportunities, modern instrumentation, and personalized mentorship, students build the scientific foundation to pursue medicine, dentistry, graduate study, or research careers across the pharmaceutical, biotech, food, and cosmetics industries.

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Curriculum & Courses

Academics

Curriculum & Courses

The Biochemistry B.S. builds from foundational chemistry and biology through advanced study of biochemical systems and the methods used to investigate them. Coursework pairs lecture with extensive laboratory work across the chemistry sequence, supported by required study in mathematics, physics, and biology. Students must maintain a minimum grade of C in all courses for the major.

To view the whole curriculum, please visit Manhattan University's academic catalog.

  • General Chemistry & Labs
  • Organic Chemistry & Labs
  • Physical Chemistry & Labs
  • Inorganic Chemistry
  • Biochemistry & Labs
  • General Biology & Labs
  • Calculus
  • Physics & Labs

A 14-credit sequence in organic chemistry and biochemistry, ideal for students in biology, chemistry, and related sciences who want to build expertise in the molecular basis of life. The minor pairs an organic chemistry foundation with core biochemistry coursework and hands-on laboratory experience, giving students a focused understanding of how biological molecules function and interact. It is a strong complement for those preparing for health professions, graduate study, or research careers where a working knowledge of biochemistry sets candidates apart.

Undergraduate Research
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Scientists research in a lab environment

Hands-On From Day One

Conduct Real Research as an Undergraduate

As a biochemistry major, you will have the opportunity to do hands-on research directly with a faculty member, an experience that students at larger institutions often wait until graduate school to access. You will work alongside faculty in laboratories equipped with research-grade instrumentation, contributing to active projects and developing the experimental skills that define a working scientist.

Recent research projects include:

  • Water remediation and applications of green synthetic technologies
  • Environmentally friendly synthesis of biofuels
  • Synthetic biology and unnatural amino acids
  • Biochemistry of DNA replication and repair

Thanks to expanded research funding, students can also apply to programs such as Jasper Research Scholars and Summer Fellows, gaining support to pursue independent work and present their findings. These experiences strengthen applications to medical school, graduate programs, and research positions across the sciences.

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Scientists research in a lab environment
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Why Study in New York City

New York City is one of the world's leading centers for science, medicine, and research, giving biochemistry students access to opportunities that few locations can match. The region is home to major academic medical centers, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, and world-class research institutions, creating a dense network of internships, laboratory placements, and professional connections. From hospitals and clinical laboratories to biotech firms developing the next generation of therapies, students are surrounded by the organizations driving discovery in the life sciences. At Manhattan University, you gain the scientific foundation and real-world exposure to launch a career or advanced study in one of the most competitive and innovative research markets in the country.

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Biochemistry: Turn Molecules Into Meaning.

At Manhattan University, biochemistry students gain the scientific knowledge, laboratory skill, and analytical judgment needed to investigate the molecular basis of life. Our program pairs rigorous coursework with hands-on research, preparing graduates to contribute with precision, integrity, and impact.

Experimental Design

Plan and conduct scientific experiments, building the methodical approach that drives discovery in the laboratory.

Data Analysis and Interpretation

Analyze and interpret experimental results, turning raw data into evidence-based scientific

Independent Analytical Thinking

Think analytically and independently, approaching complex scientific problems with rigor and confidence.

Scientific Ethics and Responsibility

Understand your professional and ethical responsibilities as a scientist, and the impact of discovery on society.

Laboratory Technique Mastery

Develop hands-on proficiency across the chemistry and biochemistry sequence, from synthesis to spectroscopy.

Scientific Communication Skills

Present findings clearly to scientific audiences, conveying the significance of your work and its broader implications.

Department Faculty

Learn From Scientists Who Know Your Name

At Manhattan University, every biochemistry course is taught by faculty members, never graduate students. In small classes and research labs, our professors get to know you, how you learn, and how to best support your goals, mentoring you from your first experiment through your applications to graduate or professional school.

Meet Our Faculty

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The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences

The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences is the largest of Manhattan University's three schools, offering 33 undergraduate majors, six graduate programs, and six combined degrees across the humanities, natural and social sciences, and professional fields. Grounded in the University's Lasallian Catholic mission and located near the heart of New York City, the School pairs rigorous academics with small classes, close faculty mentorship, and real-world experience throughout the five boroughs and beyond. That foundation delivers: Manhattan University ranks in the top 3% nationally for salary impact (Wall Street Journal, 2026), a measure of how strongly a degree here translates into graduates' career earnings.

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Careers & Outcomes

Potential Careers

Biochemistry is one of the fastest-growing research fields, with opportunities across medicine, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, food science, environmental science, and forensics. Graduates are also exceptionally well prepared for medical, dental, and other health professional programs, where biochemistry is a required part of the curriculum. The median annual wage for biochemists and biophysicists was $103,650 in May 2024, and employment in the field is projected to grow 6 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. 

  • Biochemist
  • Biophysicist
  • Forensic Chemist
  • Clinical Laboratory Technologist
  • Regulatory Affairs Specialist
  • Research Associate
  • Agricultural Scientist
  • Pharmacologist
  • Epidemiologist
  • Geneticist
  • Physician
Costs & Aid

Program Costs & Financial Aid

Manhattan University is committed to making a high-quality, career-focused education accessible and affordable. Through a combination of competitive tuition, robust financial aid, and our Jasper Guarantee, students and families can plan their education with confidence. The Jasper Guarantee locks your tuition rate for all four years—ensuring financial stability and eliminating unexpected increases as you work toward your degree.

More than 90% of Manhattan University students receive some form of financial assistance, including merit scholarships, grants, and need-based aid, significantly reducing the overall cost of attendance.

A Manhattan University education is an investment in your future, and we are dedicated to helping you access the resources that make it possible.

Learn More About Costs and Financial Aid

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A Smarter Investment in Your Future

Jasper Guarantee

At Manhattan University, every undergraduate student is protected by the Jasper Guarantee, which locks your tuition rate for all four years, ensuring clarity, stability, and peace of mind as you plan your education. This promise reflects our commitment to affordability and to supporting students and families throughout their academic journey.

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Admission Information

Admissions Information for Manhattan University

Start Your Journey in Biochemistry
Applying to Manhattan University is designed to be clear and accessible. Review the requirements below to take the next step toward your degree.

Requirements:

  • Application & transcript
  • SAT/ACT optional
  • Personal statement
  • Letter(s) of recommendation

Deadlines:

  • Early Action: November 15
  • Regular Decision: February 1

Admission and Application Process

International Students:

Support available for visas, documentation, and English-language assessments.

Learn More about International Financial Aid

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Prepare for the Real World

At Manhattan University, your education is built around who you are and where you want to go. Whether you’re ready to apply or just starting to explore, take the next step when you’re ready — we’re here to help.

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