Biochemistry Major

Biochemistry

Why Study Biochemistry at U of G?

Biochemistry studies the molecules and processes that underpin life by working at the interface between biology and chemistry, explaining biological processes at the molecular level and beyond to understand the world around us.

 Engage in Interdisciplinary Studies

Combine practical laboratory training in biochemistry, molecular biology and microbiology with courses in areas such as immunology, enzymology or physiology.

 Gain Hands-on Experience

Gain real-world experience from Biochemistry co-op work terms and complete an undergraduate research project.

 A Foundation for Career and Further Studies

Graduates are also positioned to be successful in obtaining entrance to several professional programs, as well as employment in industry and government.

To see all courses offered in the Biochemistry program, visit our Academic Calendar.

Top 5 Comprehensive University
in Canada (Macleans 2024)
Top 150 in the World
for Life Sciences (Times Higher Education 2024)
Top 20% in the World
for Biological Sciences (QS Top Universities 2024)
Top 12 in Canada
for Biochemistry (EduRank 2024)

Gain Valuable Experience Through Co-op

The Biochemistry co-op is a four-and-a-half-year program that includes four paid work terms. Apply what you’ve learned in the classroom to the real world, with hands-on work experiences available in private, non-profit, and governmental organizations. Benefits of co-op include:

  • Up to 16 months of relevant work experience
  • Earn money while you learn
  • Career exploration
  • Professional networking

Students can apply for the co-op program directly from high school or later for in-course admission. Learn more about the Biochemistry Co-op program.

  • Assistant Sampling Technician
  • Environmental Technician
  • Food Innovation Center Technician
  • Food Technologist
  • Pharmacy Assistant
  • Product Development Technician
  • Quality Assurance Assistant
  • Regulatory Affairs Co-op Student
  • Research & Development Assistant
  • Research Assistant
  • Technical Marketing Analyst

Careers in Biochemistry

Enjoy challenging careers in medicine and pharmacy, academic research, governmental regulatory work, veterinary sciences, optometry, physiotherapy, non-and-for-profit organizations, or in related business fields. Our biochemistry program provides you with a degree that is truly interdisciplinary, ensuring that upon graduation you have acquired an expertise and proficiency in great demand by employers.

Here are just a few careers our graduates have successfully pursued:

  • Research biochemist
  • Forensic scientist
  • Sales and marketing
  • Scientific writing and publishing
  • Laboratory technician
  • Analytical chemist
  • Ecologist
  • Pharmacologist
  • Nanotechnologist
  • Data scientist
Kritika Kanjilal BIOC student standing outside
From a young age, I have been fascinated by the intricate ways chemistry and biology work together. Upon receiving an offer from the University of Guelph to pursue my dream of studying Biochemistry, I immediately realized how fulfilling this experience would be. The way courses are structured, and professors go above and beyond at U of G mesmerizes me. The most important experience that U of G has provided me is the co-op experience. I gained firsthand practical exposure to how different each industry is and how biochemistry is the binding element that ties them all together. With immersive lectures, interactive laboratory sessions and hands-on experience, a biochemistry degree from U of G opens many doors for my future.

Kritika Kanjilal, Undergraduate Student
Biochemistry (BSc '25)

Natalie
As an international student from Qatar, I chose the University of Guelph for its highly ranked biological science programs, the good professor ratings, and the co-op option to gain experience in my field. At my last co-op placement with Sanofi Pasteur, I worked on a project in collaboration with NASA. The project had a tight deadline and a few months into my co-op, we began to see some problems due to some problems with a genetically modified virus we were working with. I took the initiative to look into all the reagents we were using and discovered a mistake in the dilution calculations. My work was able to get the project back on track! The hands-on experience in my program helped me find a job immediately after graduation. I now work as a research associate at STEMCELL Technologies, where I continue to pursue my passion for science.

Natalie Pagdiwala, Alumni
Research Associate, STEMCELL Technologies, Biochemistry Graduate (BSc '21)

Discover More Options

Students considering Biochemistry may also be interested in Biological and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Biomedical Toxicology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Genetics, or other majors.

Admission Requirements

Explore admission requirements for Canadian, international, transfer, and mature students. Start your journey today!

Scholarships & Bursaries

We offer a wide range of financial aid programs to assist with funding your education at the University of Guelph.

Explore Scholarships & Financial Aid

Tour Our Campus

Through virtual tours, presentations, webinars and in-person tours, get familiar with the University of Guelph campus.

Book a Tour

Have Questions?

Learn more about how to connect, discover, and engage with programs, facilities and life at the University of Guelph.

Request More Info

Get Future Ready