The biochemistry program at West Virginia University prepares students for careers requiring a strong background in basic principles of the physical and life sciences. Students completing the bachelor of arts or the bachelor of science in biochemistry will be prepared for professional employment in the expanding fields of agricultural and environmental sciences, the chemical industry, the health-care industry, and in biotechnology.

Faculty members provide students with an interdisciplinary education - in biochemistry, biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics, and molecular biology - necessary for employment in industry or government laboratories, entrance into graduate programs in a variety of fields in agriculture, biology, biotechnology, chemistry, nutrition, and physiology, or for acceptance to professional degree programs in dentistry, human or veterinary medicine, optometry, and pharmacy.

Biochemistry majors have the option of pursuing a bachelor of science through the Division of Animal and Veterinary Sciences in the Davis College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Consumer Sciences or a bachelor of arts in molecular biology or chemistry through an interdepartmental program in the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences. The Senior Seminar at the end of the program in each emphasis assists students in making the transition from college to a career in biochemistry or graduate/professional education by leading students through individual research projects.

Admission
Students who meet University admission requirements are accepted directly into either college as biochemistry majors.

Curriculum
The biochemistry curriculum meets the requirements of the American Chemical Society and the recommendations of the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology for undergraduate degrees in biochemistry. Opportunities for hands-on research are available through both colleges as well as the School of Medicine.

All biochemistry students take a common core of 48 credit hours. Beyond the core curriculum, biochemistry majors complete 30 hours in an emphasis area. Students may choose between earning a bachelor of science in biochemistry or a bachelor of arts in either chemistry or molecular biology. Students also take a liberal studies core of courses and a variety of electives to complete the 128 credit hours required to earn a bachelor's degree in biochemistry.

Accreditation
West Virginia University is fully accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The Agricultural and Environmental Education program is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education..

Career Opportunities
Students completing a major in biochemistry are prepared for employment in the expanding fields of agricultural and environmental sciences, the chemical industry, health care, and biotechnology.

Graduate School Opportunities
The biochemistry program provides students with an outstanding background in preparation for professional programs in dentistry, human or veterinary medicine, optometry, and pharmacy, and well as graduate programs in biochemistry, biology, biotechnology, chemistry, food science, nutrition, and physiology. WVU offers a master's and Ph.D. program in biochemistry through the School of Medicine.

Salary Ranges
Biological and life scientists with a bachelor's degree working in private industry earn average starting salaries of $29,450, while master's degree holders average $38,000, and Ph.D. holders average $57,000.

For more information, Dr. Paul E. Lewis at (304)293-2231 x 4420, Paul.Lewis@mail.wvu.edu, or visit http://www.caf.wvu.edu/avs/.