Biochemistry combines biology and chemistry to study living organisms at the cellular and molecular levels. Biochemists investigate how cells function, how diseases develop and how medicines interact with the body.
Biochemistry is central to medicine, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, food science, environmental science and forensics.
The University of Toledo offers a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry.
The B.S. Degree in Biochemistry:
- Prepares students for scientific careers and graduate study
- Provides excellent preparation for medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, optometry and veterinary medicine
- Includes hands-on laboratory training and undergraduate research opportunities
- Is certified by the American Chemical Society’s Committee on Professional Training
- Offers a combined B.S.-to-M.S. pathway for qualified students
Top Reasons to Study Biochemistry at UToledo
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Research with award-winning faculty mentors.
UToledo faculty conduct research in drug discovery, bioanalytical chemistry, protein science, medicinal chemistry, computational chemistry and related fields.
Undergraduates can join faculty research groups, present at conferences and contribute to scientific publications. Paid research positions may also be available.
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Develop essential laboratory skills.
Biochemistry students gain hands-on experience studying proteins, nucleic acids, enzymes and other biological molecules. Laboratory training includes techniques such as:
- Chromatography and centrifugation
- DNA and RNA isolation
- Enzyme assays and kinetic analysis
- Gel electrophoresis
- High-performance liquid chromatography
- Mass spectrometry
- Molecular-biology methods
- Protein isolation and purification
- Scientific data analysis and bioinformatics
- UV-visible and fluorescence spectroscopy
Students involved in faculty research may receive additional training in specialized techniques. -
Prepare for professional school.
Biochemistry is an excellent major for students interested in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, optometry or veterinary medicine.
UToledo’s Pre-Health Advising Center helps students plan coursework and prepare for professional-school applications. Students may also explore UToledo’s BACC2MD pathway.
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Accelerate your graduate education.
Qualified students may begin graduate coursework while completing their bachelor’s degree through the combined B.S. in Biochemistry and M.S. in Chemistry pathway. This means you’ll start taking graduate classes while still an undergraduate student and can earn both your undergraduate and graduate degrees more quickly. Launch your career sooner in the B.S. + M.S. Degree Program.
Meet Meet Victoria Ho
UToledo biochemistry student, 2026 Barry Goldwater Scholar—one of the nation’s most prestigious awards for undergraduate researchers.
Victoria began conducting research early in her undergraduate career in Dr. Michael Young’s laboratory. Her work focuses on developing potential alternatives to opioids and safer approaches to pain management. “At UToledo, it was, ‘This is where we can take you with what you bring to the table.’”
Read MoreWhat jobs can I get with a Biochemistry degree?
Biochemistry graduates work in:
- Biotechnology
- Chemical and biological research
- Clinical and diagnostic laboratories
- Environmental testing
- Food and agricultural science
- Forensic science
- Government laboratories
- Healthcare and medicine
- Pharmaceutical development
They work as:
- Biochemists
- Biotechnology specialists
- Clinical research coordinators
- Forensic scientists
- Laboratory analysts
- Laboratory managers
- Medical scientists
- Quality-control scientists
- Research scientists
- Science technicians
Many graduates continue into medical, dental, pharmacy, veterinary or graduate programs.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities
At UToledo, we take you beyond the textbooks and the four walls of a classroom. These real-world experiences are what help our graduates gain professional skills and land jobs.
Internships
Finding an internship is easy thanks to UToledo’s robust community partnerships with companies and organizations around the region. Dive into unique opportunities that prepare you to launch your career.
Internships help you:
- Gain practical experience
- Build your resume
- Refine your skills
- Cultivate contacts
Internships often lead to full-time jobs after graduation!
The Rocket Career Center can help you track down job opportunities. You also might be able to receive academic credit for your internship or job.
Research
Biochemistry students may begin research as early as their first year and work directly with faculty mentors. The Office of Undergraduate Research helps students find projects, funding and opportunities to present their work.
Study Abroad
Biochemistry students may study at the University of Salford in Manchester, England, through UToledo’s long-standing exchange program.
Rocket Kids Semester
The Rocket Kids program offers University students a fall, spring or summer semester internship providing recreational programming to U.S. military youth while experiencing the world in locations such as Germany, Italy, Belgium and The Netherlands.
Rocket Kids interns will gain practical experience in programming, leadership, health and wellness, creative arts, performing arts, cultural and literary arts, team and individual sports, adventure and outdoor recreation and STEM education.
On-campus and Part-time Jobs
- Learn skills that prepare you for a career after graduation.
- Build your resume.
- Earn money.
If you want to work, there are plenty of opportunities on campus and at businesses near campus. If you demonstrate financial need, you may qualify for the federal work-study program.
Student Organizations
Students can participate in the UToledo student chapter of the American Chemical Society, pre-health organizations, research programs and science-outreach activities.
Our most successful students get involved.
UToledo has 400+ student organizations that will help you:
- Make friends.
- Build your resume.
- Network.
- Be a leader.
- Serve your community.
- Have fun!
Tuition and Scholarships
Most new students don't pay full price. 94% of new UToledo students receive scholarships or other state and federal aid.
Keep in mind: Your cost will vary by college, program and a host of other options. This is the average amount full-time students pay per year.
Tuition and Fees
Living Expenses (Housing & Food)
per year
How to pay for collegeInternational Student - How to Pay for College
Choose Ohio First scholarship
Ohio residents who have been accepted into this STEM program are eligible for the Choose Ohio First scholarship — a four-year, renewable scholarship.
Honors College
The Jesup Scott Honors College at The University of Toledo offer our best and brightest the resources and opportunities needed to unlock your fullest potential. Whether you aspire following graduation to cure disease, innovate technology, advance statecraft, redefine markets, or express creatively, together we can fuel vibrant and promising tomorrows.
Honors students come from a variety of countries, backgrounds and cultures. While we may bond over a tough class, our differences make us blossom.
Benefits of Honors
The Honors College is a community of academically gifted students from all majors on campus. Students take unique Honors classes taught by dedicated Honors faculty and complete an Honors thesis or capstone project in their major, earning the Honors medallion at graduation within their normal program of study. Honors students are challenged to think more deeply and broadly about what they learn. With special academic, cultural, and professional development opportunities, their education extends beyond the classroom.
Honors students can also choose exclusive housing in the Honors Academic Village or President's Hall.
Explore more about what the Honors College can offer you as a budding professional, inquisitive scholar, and engaged person.
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