Biochemistry, Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Explore the chemistry of life

The Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry prepares you to understand life at the molecular level. You’ll build a strong foundation in chemistry, biology, mathematics, and physics while gaining extensive hands-on laboratory and research experience.

As an R1 university and a leading hub for life and health sciences, IU Indianapolis offers you direct access to research, clinical, and industrial environments that strengthen learning and support career readiness.

This rigorous, in-person program is ideal for students interested in biochemistry, biotechnology, research, and graduate or professional school.

This program may be a great fit if you:

Want a strong science foundation that combines chemistry, biology, and math
Are curious about how chemical processes drive life at the molecular level
Learn best through hands-on lab work and research
Are motivated by problem-solving, critical thinking, and data-driven discovery
Want a degree that is recognized for quality, including certification by the American Chemical Society (ACS)
Plan to pursue a career in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, or biochemical or biomedical research
Plan to apply to medical, dental, pharmacy, or graduate school

Biochemistry

Degree: Bachelor of Science
Credit hours: 120
Typical time to complete: 4 years
Delivery: On campus
Location: Indianapolis
Academic unit: Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology

Degree highlights »
Your learning experience »
After graduation »

Degree requirements

Search pathways.iu.edu to find:

Requirements for this degree
Academic pathway (how to complete this degree on time)

Find admission requirements and learn how to apply »

Trustees approve new biosciences degrees to strengthen IU’s and state’s impact in life sciences

Indiana University continues to build on recent investments in biosciences by creating three new degrees at IU Indianapolis, including a B.S. program in biochemistry. Read more »

Degree highlights

ACS-certified program — the curriculum meets standards set by the American Chemical Society.
Hands-on learning from day one — You'll spend significant time in labs and research settings, building practical skills employers and graduate programs value.
Urban research environment — Learn in the heart of Indiana's life sciences, biotech, and pharmaceutical corridor, with access to internships and industry connections.
Faculty mentorship — Work closely with research-active faculty who are committed to undergraduate teaching and mentoring.
Pathways for transfer students — Students at Ivy Tech can earn an associate's degree in chemistry and then transfer to IU Indianapolis with junior status to complete this bachelor's degree.

Your learning experience

You’ll develop a deep understanding of the chemical processes that drive biological systems while strengthening critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

You’ll also learn how to design experiments, use modern laboratory instrumentation, analyze data, and communicate scientific results clearly and professionally.

Core areas of study

Organic, inorganic, analytical, and physical chemistry
Biochemistry and molecular biology
Mathematics and physics supporting chemical sciences
Scientific communication, ethics, and data analysis

Learning beyond the classroom

Biochemistry at IU Indianapolis is built around experience.

You'll engage in:

Laboratory courses (conducting experiments, and reporting lab procedures and results)
Undergraduate research alongside faculty mentors
Internships in industry, healthcare, or research settings
A capstone experience that integrates your knowledge and skills

Be prepared for what's next

You will:

Think critically and solve complex scientific problems using evidence and data.
Work effectively as part of a laboratory or research team.
Design and conduct experiments, analyze results, and draw meaningful conclusions.
Use modern laboratory instrumentation and technology for analysis.
Integrate knowledge from biology, math, physics, and related fields to understand complex biochemical systems.

You will graduate ready to contribute as a skilled scientist, equipped with the technical expertise, analytical mindset, and skills today's employers and professional graduate programs expect.

Course preview
A sample of courses you will take:

Experimental Chemistry
Organic Chemistry (and corresponding lab course)
Analytical Chemistry (and corresponding lab course)
Mechanics
Multivariate Calculus
Biomolecules and Catabolism
Biosynthetic Pathways and Control of Metabolism
Biological Chemistry Lab

Search pathways.iu.edu to see all courses for the Biochemistry degree.

After graduation

With a B.S. in Biochemistry from IU Indianapolis, you'll be well prepared for a wide range of paths.

Common career and education outcomes include:

Biochemist or biotechnologist
Laboratory or research associate
Biomedical or pharmaceutical scientist
Medical, dental, pharmacy, or graduate school (M.D., D.D.S., PharmD, M.S., Ph.D.)

Strong demand for biochemistry-trained professionals exists in Indiana and nationwide, particularly in healthcare, biotechnology, and life sciences industries.

Department website

Visit the Chemistry & Chemical Biology website.

Academic programs in chemistry

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Take the next step

Learn how to apply