Biochemistry Major

    Biochemistry is the chemistry of life

    Biochemistry is a broad science that studies the molecules and chemistry of life. It focuses on the structure, properties, and interactions of molecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, sugars, and lipids.

    As a Biochemistry major you will:

    • Explore how life works at the molecular level using quantitative approaches grounded in chemistry, physics, and math
    • Analyze how the various functions of living cells and biological processes operate at the molecular level
    • Discover the connections between biochemistry and current issues, such as understanding disease and finding cures or improving agriculture and the production of food and biofuels

    Career Paths

    Biochemistry graduates are prepared for careers in science and science-related fields, such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, academia, science communications, policy, and more.

    Here are just a few examples of what our biochemistry graduates are doing with their careers:

    What CALS alumni do:

    Pharmacist

    Physician

    Dentist

    Cardiologist

    Where CALS alumni work:

    National Institute of Health

    UW Health

    Medical College of Wisconsin

    SSM Health

    What CALS alumni do:

    Production Scientist

    Clinical Researcher

    Analytical Coordinator

    Chemist

    Research Specialist

    Scientist

    Where CALS alumni work:

    Abbvie

    Lapcorp

    Promega

    Exact Sciences

    Thermo Fisher

    Catalent

    What CALS alumni do:

    Research Associate

    Production Scientist

    Production Scientist

    Clinical Researcher

    Professor

    Chemist

    Where CALS alumni work:

    National Institute of Health

    Epic

    GE

    Covance

    Promega

    Medical College of Wisconsin

    What can CALS offer you?

    CALS students are curious to discover how our living world works and are passionate about using science to improve it.

    Our programs span five areas of study and encourage students to pursue their passions in the classroom and beyond. Learn more about how our students are set up for success:

    Want to learn more about biochemistry?
    Explore admission requirements, course offerings, 4-year plans, and more on UW–Madison’s undergraduate Guide.

    Why get a biochemistry degree in CALS?

    A degree in biochemistry is offered in both the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) and the College of Letters & Science (L&S). The major requirements are the same in both colleges, but the college requirements are different.

    Students in CALS earn a bachelors of science degree in biochemistry. College requirements include a first-year seminar, an international studies course to develop global perspectives and coursework in physical, biological, natural, and social sciences. Additionally, students complete a capstone course that helps integrate concepts they’ve learned in the major. 

    For a complete breakdown of the degree requirements across the programs, check out the UW–Madison undergraduate Guide.

    Your CALS Experience

    Students who participate in research

    Graduates who say they gained important scientific and communication skills in the program

    Students who take an Honors course

    Advisor & Contact Information

    Advisors can answer your questions, help you create a degree plan that meets your personal and professional goals, and connect you to resources across the UW–Madison campus.

    Incoming students should reach out to CALS Academic Affairs to direct your questions. Current UW–Madison students should schedule with their assigned advisor using Starfish.

    CALS Academic Affairs

    116 Agricultural Hall
    1450 Linden Dr., Madison, WI 53706

    academicaffairs@cals.wisc.edu
    (608) 262-3003

    Biochemistry Undergraduate Advising

    1315 Biochemical Sciences Building
    440 Henry Mall, Madison, WI 53706

    biochemmicrobio-advisor@wisc.edu