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Biochemistry (B.S.) Outcomes & Career Options

Outcomes & Career Options

Biochemists and biophysicists use advanced technologies, such as lasers and fluorescent microscopes, to conduct scientific experiments and analysis. They also use x rays and computer modeling software to determine the three-dimensional structures of proteins and other molecules. Biochemists and biophysicists involved in biotechnology research use chemical enzymes to synthesize recombinant DNA. Career opportunities may also involve work as an oceanographer, soil conservationist, agricultural scientist, biological scientist, life science technician, in the fields of nutrition, dietetics, molecular biology, health science, microbiology and pharmacology. 

Educational Qualifications

A degree in Biochemistry is the entry level for technical positions in the industry. For more advanced research and management positions, Masters and Ph.D. degrees are eventually needed.

Chemists and materials scientists with advanced degrees, particularly those with a Ph.D. and work experience, are expected to experience better opportunities. Large pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms provide openings for these workers at research laboratories, and many others work in colleges and universities. Furthermore, chemists with advanced degrees will continue to fill most senior research and upper-management positions.

Students interested in secondary teaching must complete applicable licensure for the secondary teaching credential. For more information, contact the School of Education.

Job Outlook

Employment of biochemists and biophysicists is projected to grow 8 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations. 

Entering Salary

The median annual wage for chemists was $71,260 in May 2015. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $41,110, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $125,450. The median annual wage for high school teachers was $57,200 in May 2015. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $37,800, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $91,190. 
The median annual wage for chemists was $71,260 in May 2015. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $41,110, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $125,450. The median annual wage for high school teachers was $57,200 in May 2015. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $37,800, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $91,190. 
The median annual wage for biochemists and biophysicists was $82,150 in May 2015. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $44,640, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $153,810. In May 2015, the median annual wages for biochemists and biophysicists in the top industries in which they worked were as follows:
Management, scientific, and technical consulting services$105,430
Research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences$87,650
Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing$77,960
Basic chemical manufacturing$74,840
Education Sector$55,560
The median annual wage for high school teachers was $57,200 in May 2015. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $37,800, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $91,190.

Sources:

Academic program information adapted from:
La Sierra University. (2016-2017). Undergraduate Academic Bulletin. Retrieved from http://www.lasierra.edu/bulletinCareer information adapted from:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2016-17 Edition, Biochemists and Biophysicists on the Internet at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/biochemists-and-biophysicists.htm (visited May 20, 2016).

Degree Programs

Chemistry
Biochemistry

Contact and Location

chemistry@lasierra.edu
(951) 785-2148
Palmer Hall 205

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