A masters in biochemistry can help you develop your existing science skills in this cutting-edge field.
Careers for biochemistry professionals are on a strong growth trajectory and often have above-average earning potential. There are numerous opportunities for professionals who have the skills to advance scientific research and help solve problems at a global level.
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Many graduates also use their masters in biochem to pursue advanced degrees in medicine.
Online Masters in Biochemistry Programs
Biochemists study the chemical process and transformations in living organisms and use molecular tools to solve biological problems.
Earning a master’s degree in biochemistry is strategic for students who want to advance research in this field and use their skills to make meaningful contributions to the world. Some programs offer various specialty tracks you may be able to choose from, including research tracks and coursework tracks.
Some programs also offer thesis and non-thesis options, letting you choose the option that best aligns with your goals.
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While biochemistry graduate programs attract a diverse population, here are some common traits and qualities of successful biochemistry graduates:
- Interested in scientific research
- Excellent problem-solving skills
- Ability to think critically and analytically
- Strong math skills
- Background in science
- Strong time management skills
- Good communication skills
Course topics you may study as part of your program include:
- Cell Biology
- Pharmacogenomics
- Immunology
- Histology
- Toxicology
Graduates may find employment in public or private institutions, with opportunities to participate in innovative research for biotech firms.
Graduates may also have opportunities to use their skills in a variety of fields, including medicine, healthcare, materials and nanoscience, chemical biology, and energy and sustainability. You may also choose to go to medical school, pursue a doctoral degree, or continue your research in universities or in a range of industries.
Working in the field of biochemistry might allow you to contribute to meaningful research for contemporary global issues.
Biochemistry Careers & Salaries
Graduates who have completed their online biochemistry masters program have various options as next steps, depending on their goals, interests, and skills. A masters can help you qualify for entry-level biochemist positions.
Students interested in research can pursue opportunities in universities in academic research, clinical research, or as research scientists. Graduates may also find employment opportunities in innovative fields like biomedical science, forensic science, pharmacology, nanotechnology, and biotechnology.
Based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are some potential careers related to biochemistry.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Natural Sciences Managers | $137,900 |
| Biochemists and Biophysicists | $102,270 |
| Materials Scientists | $100,090 |
| Medical Scientists | $95,310 |
| Postsecondary Teachers | $79,640 |
| Chemists | $79,430 |
| Microbiologists | $79,260 |
| Agricultural and Food Scientists | $74,160 |
| Forensic Science Technicians | $61,930 |
| Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians | $57,800 |
Careers in the biochemistry and biomedical fields tend to pay higher than average salaries. Those interested in careers as doctors or surgeons may pursue medical school as a next step.
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Graduates interested in becoming veterinarians may use their degrees to attend veterinary school. You might also pursue a doctoral or professional degree if you’re interested in becoming a medical scientist or a biochemist in research and development.
Master of Biochemistry Curriculum & Courses
While biochemistry courses will vary between programs, below are some common courses you may take as you pursue a master’s degree in biochemistry:
- Biochemistry: This course introduces you to the metabolism of biological molecules, including glucose metabolism.
- Cell Biology: In this course, you’ll focus on organisms’ cellular structure and function, with the application of data analysis.
- Endocrinology: You’ll study the major endocrine glands, their hormone products, and how the endocrine system works with the nervous and immune systems.
- Genomics: This course focuses on molecular genetic principles and how to use advanced technology and case studies to understand genes and genomes.
- Pharmacogenomics: In this course, you’ll discover the role genes play in the body’s response to medication.
- Immunology: In this course, you’ll study the immune system at the molecular level, focusing on the response to infection, tumors, and autoimmune diseases, among others.
- Intermediate Organic Chemistry: This course uses the basic concepts of organic chemistry to analyze reaction mechanisms and retrosynthesis.
- Research Responsibility and Ethics: In this course, you’ll learn the basics of research planning and explore common ethical research dilemmas.
- Histology: In this course, you’ll study the anatomy of cells, tissues, and organs at the microscopic level.
- Toxicology: This course introduces you to the fundamental principles of toxicology, including metabolism, risk assessment, types of toxicity, and diagnosis and treatment.
The courses in your program may also vary depending on your chosen concentration track if your university offers different specializations.
Biochem Masters Admissions Requirements
While admissions requirements can vary from program to program, some common requirements for admission to biochemistry graduate programs are listed below:
- Bachelor’s degree. Many programs will require a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field.
- Minimum GPA. Some programs may require you to have earned a minimum GPA in your undergraduate coursework.
- Letters of recommendation. Some programs may require at least one letter of recommendation.
- Official transcripts. Most programs require copies of your undergraduate and/or graduate transcripts.
In addition to the above requirements, most programs have you complete an online application and pay an application fee.
Biochemistry Master’s Programs Accreditation
Accreditation is the process of ensuring that educational institutions meet a predetermined standard of quality. Universities that are regionally accredited are the most widely accepted.
Accreditation may factor into your admissions process, as some master’s programs only recognize bachelor’s degrees from regionally accredited institutions. Similarly, if you want to pursue more advanced degrees, some programs may only accept master’s degrees that were earned at a regionally accredited school.
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Accreditation can also affect your job opportunities after graduation, as some employers look more favorably upon degrees earned from accredited institutions. You can find additional school accreditation information on the US Department of Education’s website.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
As you look into biochemistry graduate programs, you might also explore the various opportunities for financial aid. If you are currently employed in a related field, your employer may offer financial assistance, reimbursement plans, or reduced tuition with some cooperating institutions.
You can also explore various scholarship opportunities that are available through public, private, and non-profit institutions. Funding could also be available through federal or state loans and grants. You can also explore federal work-study programs, which allow you to work part-time to help pay for your program.
You can visit the Federal Student Aid website to learn more about various opportunities that might be available to you.
What Is a Biochemistry Master’s Degree?
A biochemistry master’s degree is a graduate program that builds on your existing knowledge in biology and chemistry to study living organisms at the molecular level.
The skills and knowledge gained can help prepare students to advance their careers or pursue advanced education in a doctoral program or medical school. Graduates who pursue research opportunities can further their studies in a wide range of fields, from drug development to climate change and sustainability.
Courses in this program focus on studies at the molecular level, including histology, immunology, genomics, and pharmacogenomics.
What Degree Do You Need to Be a Biochemist?
While there are various paths to becoming a biochemist, many students begin with a bachelors degree in a related field, such as biology, chemistry, physical science, or engineering.
Some universities offer bachelor’s degrees in biochemistry, which allow you to begin learning specific biochemistry skills early on. You may qualify for an entry-level biochemist position with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in biochemistry.
A PhD is typically required for biochemists who work in independent research-and-development roles. Doctoral studies could help you qualify for more senior positions as well.
What Can You Do with a Masters in Biochemistry?
Graduates with a masters in biochem have numerous options they can pursue upon earning their degree. If you are interested in medicine, you can choose to further your education in medical or veterinary school.
If you are interested in research, you may apply your skills in a wide range of fields, including medical, academic, and clinical research. A masters can help you qualify for entry-level biochemist roles, while a PhD is required for independent research-and-development roles.
If you’re interested in education, you may pursue teaching licensure to teach at the high school level or consider opportunities at the college level.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Biochemistry Masters Online?
Most masters programs take 1 to 2 years to finish with full-time study. Much like with a degree in biology online program, the length of time needed to complete an online biochemistry masters program will depend on several factors.
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These factors include the exact number of credits in your chosen on-campus or online biochemistry degree program, thesis requirements, and your course schedule. For a 36-credit hour masters program with no thesis, you may be able to complete it in 1 year of full-time courses, including summer enrollment. If your program requires a thesis, it may take longer to complete.
What’s the Difference Between a Master in Biochemistry vs. Chemistry?
While chemistry and biochemistry are similar, there are some key distinctions between the programs.
| Masters in Biochemistry | Masters in Chemistry |
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While there are similarities between the two programs, biochemistry is a sub-discipline of both biology and chemistry.
What’s the Difference Between Molecular Biology vs. Biochemistry Masters Programs?
While there is some overlap between molecular biology and biochemistry, they each have their specialized area of study.
| Masters in Molecular Biology | Masters in Biochemistry |
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Graduates in both programs may find employment opportunities in areas like medical science and microbiology.
Is a Masters Degree in Biochemistry Worth It?
Yes, a masters degree in biochemistry is worth it for many students. There are diverse career options open to graduates with this degree.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for biochemists and biophysicists is projected to grow 15% over the next ten years. This projected growth is much faster than the average for all occupations. There is a high demand for individuals with biochemistry skills in this ever-evolving and innovative field.
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Whether you are looking to advance your career in this field or pursue an advanced degree, a master’s degree in biochemistry can help you grow your skills and qualifications.
Universities Offering Online Masters in Biochemistry Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
Drexel University offers an online program for an MS in Molecular Medicine. Full-time and part-time enrollment is available, and it can typically be completed in 4 years with part-time attendance. The program does not require a thesis, but does require an experiential research internship, which may be completed in a corporate or an academic setting.
Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Eastern Illinois University offers a Master of Science in Biological Sciences. Classes are available online and on campus, and there are thesis and non-thesis options. Class sizes are small, and opportunities are provided to work on research with faculty. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning and field-based experiences.
Eastern Illinois University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Harvard University offers an online Master’s in Biotechnology through its online extension school. The program requires the completion of 12 courses, and typically just one course is taken at a time. Most students work full-time and already have professional experience in the field. Online classes feature weekly discussions.
Harvard University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Indiana State University offers a non-thesis, online program for an MS in Biology. The program requires the completion of 32 credits and can typically be finished in 3 to 5 years of part-time study. The program can potentially be finished in 2 years if some classes are taken on campus. The curriculum is highly customizable through a wide range of elective options.
Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Johns Hopkins University offers an MS in Biotechnology. The program requires the completion of 10 courses and can typically be finished in 1 to 3 years. Courses are available both online and on campus, with on-campus classes scheduled during evenings or weekends. The program provides opportunities to study under leading researchers.
Johns Hopkins University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Lehigh University offers an online program for a Master of Science in Biological Chemical Engineering. The program features a broad curriculum and an emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving. Prospective students typically already hold a degree in chemical engineering, but other students may take bridge courses before enrolling.
Lehigh University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Liberty University’s MS in Biology program consists of 100% online, 8 week courses. It requires the completion of 34 credit hours and can usually be finished in 1.5 years. The program offers several opportunities to come to campus for optional intensives, which provide hands-on learning experiences.
Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Ohio University offers a non-thesis, online program for an MS in Chemistry. The program requires the completion of 30 credits and can potentially be finished in just 3 semesters. Potential courses include Science Research Literature and Writing, Advanced Organic Synthesis: Reactions and Mechanisms, Basic Biochemistry, and Modern Inorganic Chemistry.
Ohio University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
South Dakota State University offers an MS in Chemistry with a specialization in Chemical Education. This program is designed for working K-12 science teachers.
The program requires the completion of 32 credits, 22 of which may be completed online. On-campus classes are taken during the summer. Potential courses include Atomic Theory and Bonding, Organic and Biochemistry, and Thermodynamics.
SDSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Florida offers a Master of Science in Microbiology and Cell Science. The program is entirely online, and new students may start in the spring, summer, or fall. No in-person labs or campus visits are required. Most students work while earning their degrees and can finish in just 1 year.
The University of Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Maryland Global Campus offers a Master of Science in Biotechnology with a specialization in Biotechnology Management. The program requires 36 credits of coursework, all of which may be completed online. Select courses are also available in a hybrid format. Potential courses include Societal Issues in Biotechnology, Introduction to Bioinformatics, and Marketing Management.
UMGC is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The University of North Carolina—Wilmington offers a Master of Science in Chemistry that can be earned online. With no set class times or on-campus requirements, the program is designed to allow students to study while maintaining full-time employment. Potential courses include Advanced Biochemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, and Molecular Modeling. Clinical research options are also available.
The University of North Carolina Wilmington is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Northern Colorado’s extended campus offers a non-thesis, online program for an MS in Biological Sciences. The program requires the completion of 30 credits and can usually be finished in 2 to 3 years. A typical course load consists of 5 to 8 credit hours each semester. Potential courses include Pathogenic Microbiology, Molecular Genetics, and Developmental Biology.
The University of Northern Colorado is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Saint Joseph’s online MS in Biochemistry program features flexible course offerings and thesis and non-thesis options. Non-thesis students must pass a comprehensive exam. Potential courses include Biosynthesis of Nucleotides, Advanced Organic Chemistry Mechanisms, Introduction to the Biochemistry of Cancer, and Forensic Chemical Analysis.
The University of Saint Joseph is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Villanova University offers a Master of Science in Biochemical Engineering. Classes meet in the evenings, and most students study part-time. Synchronous and asynchronous online options are also available. Classes are taught by instructors with a wide range of research interests, and there are thesis and non-thesis track options.
Villanova University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Getting Your Masters in Biochemistry Online
Whether you’re interested in pursuing a doctoral degree or expanding your career opportunities, earning a masters in biochem may be the next step in your educational and professional journey.
You could explore opportunities in research, healthcare and medicine, academia, management, and writing, among others. If you are interested in innovation and cutting-edge technology, you may even pursue work in areas like nanotechnology and biotech.
You can start exploring online biochemistry masters programs from accredited universities to discover which one best aligns with your schedule, interests, and professional goals.
