Biochemistry is the integration of knowledge from the biological and chemical sciences, among others, leading to the study and application of chemical interactions in living systems.
In addition to building conceptual scientific knowledge, Doane biochemistry students will also develop their quantitative reasoning and communication skills. We put you in the lab, giving you significant experience with equipment, practices, and research. There's also a strong emphasis on professional conduct and ethical decision-making. As a biochemistry major at Doane, you'll graduate with the skills necessary to land your first job or excel in graduate school.
Biochemistry isn't just an excellent path to a profession in medicine. It can also lead you to a career in biotechnology, pharmacology, industry, or government. At Doane, you'll gain the soft and hard skills necessary to excel, no matter what career path you choose.
A biochemistry degree will provide you a generous mixture of biology and chemistry courses designed to help you hit the ground running in your first job or graduate school. Biochemistry majors have gone on to successful careers in healthcare, biotechnology, government, law, and more.
Medical laboratory technologists (commonly known as medical laborator yscientists) collect samples and perform tests to analyze body fluids, tissue, and other substances. Clinical chemistry technologists prepare specimines and analyze the chemical and hormonal contents of body fluids.
Food scientists use chemistry, biology, and other sciences to study the basic elements of food. They analyze the nutritional content of food, discover new food sources, and research ways to make processed foods safe and healthy.
Forensic science technicians aid criminal investigations by collecting and analyzing evidence. Many technicians specialize in various types of laboratory analysis. Forensic chemists typically use chemicals and laboratory equipment and computers to examin DNA, substances, and other evidence collected at crime scenes. They often work to match evidence to people or other known elements, such as vehicles or weapons.
Physicians and surgeons diagnose and treat injuries or illnesses. Physicians examine patients; take medical histories; prescribe medications; and order, perform, and interpret diagnostic tests. They counsel patients on diet, hygiene, and preventative healthcare. Surgeons operate on patients to treat injuries, such as broken bones; diseases, such as cancerous tumors; and deformaties, such as cleft palates.
Dentists diagnose and treat problems with patients' teeth, gums, and related parts of the mouth. They provide advice and instruction on taking care of teeth and gums and on diet choices that affect oral health.
Lawyers advise and represent individuals, businesses, and government agencies on legal issues and disputes. Intellectual property lawyers deal with the laws related to inventions, patents, trademarks, and creative works.
A good portion of Doane biochemistry majors plan to pursue a health career. Preparation is very important and involves many areas of campus—students need a strong education in the sciences, excellent communication skills, and a demonstrated interest in service. Advisors in the Health Professions Advisory Committee work with you (in addition to your academic advisor) to help plan your coursework, find shadowing and internship experiences, develop skills for taking entrance exams, and find information on the best professional programs for you.
Studying at Doane has been one of the best experiences—I've been able to conduct research, present at conferences, and have my work published.
Doane has been awesome about helping me with my schedule so I can focus my energy on all of my interests.
Recent Doane graduate Michael Shavlik ’18 is pursuing a Doctorate of Molecular Biology at the University of Oregon.
Former Doane biology major and women's basketball player Morgan Hill ’17 is in the second year of her Doctorate of Physical Therapy program at UNMC and has had tremendous success in the program so far.