Biochemistry (BSc)
Explore the chemical foundations of life.
Why choose this program?
Set yourself apart with the only combined Biochemistry and Molecular Biology degree in the Maritimes. You will be at the forefront of discovery in medicine and biotechnology, learning from professors conducting groundbreaking research in areas like molecular evolution, genome biology, biomolecular structure and engineering, and the metabolic basis of diseases.
By studying features and functionality of biological molecules in contexts from the lab bench to simple organisms to humans, you’ll uncover common patterns in how cells function and how molecules shape and enable life. This knowledge has real impact, supporting the development of new medicines, improving food and biotech products, and helping to understand, diagnose, prevent, and treat diseases.
If you’re curious about how science connects to both health and innovation, this program will empower you with the tools to understand molecular-level functions that are critical to life. You will delve into the nuances of what’s happening in living organisms, giving you the perspective needed to make a difference.
Careers
Dalhousie offers the only degree programs in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology in the Maritimes. Grads can be found working in government, private sector, academic, and health-care environments. Your degree qualifies you for many technical and research assistant-level jobs straight out of school and can lead to exciting career opportunities.
What you will learn
In your first year, you'll study chemistry, biology, and mathematics. Second year features courses in biochemistry, analytical and organic chemistry, cell biology, and genetics. In your third and fourth years, you'll take advanced level courses focused on areas such as bioinformatics, biotechnology, enzymes, genomics, metabolism, nucleic acids, and proteins.
Sample courses
- Principles of Biology
- Concepts in Chemistry: Structure and Reactivity
- Life Science Calculus & Statistics
- Writing for the Sciences
- Biochemistry Laboratory Methods & Techniques
- Introduction to Biochemistry
- Cell Biology, Genetics and Molecular Biology
- Organic Chemistry
- Biomolecular Chemistry
- Cellular and Integrated Metabolism
- Nucleic Acid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
- Introduction to Biotechnology
- Bioinformatics
- Genes and Genomes
- Mechanisms of Signal Transduction
- Proteins: Form and Function
Gain experience outside the classroom
Enroll in a first-year interest group (FIGS)
Be mentored by an upper-year student
Serve as a peer mentor
Enroll in co-op
Apply for one of the numerous summer research awards available each year
Gain teaching and communication skills as a teaching assistant or working with a science outreach organization
Attend career prep workshops
Other opportunities include science communication internships, and student society leadership roles.
Customize your degree
The following Biochemistry and Molecular Biology program options are offered by Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Science. Connect with an academic advisor after you start your studies to explore options such as:
Concentrated Honours Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Combined Honours Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Bachelor of Science with Major in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Bachelor of Science with Double Major Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Minor in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Add a minor to your BSc in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology to expand your skill set and perspective with a second discipline, allowing you to study everything you’re passionate about at Dal.
Visit the Academic Calendar to browse the minors you can take with this degree.
Complete a certificate alongside your regular degree requirements and graduate with additional skills in specialized areas. Options include:
- Genetics
- Bioinformatics
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Science Communication & Leadership
As a Science Co-op student, you’ll undertake three work terms interspersed with your academic study terms. Science Co-op degree programs allow you to apply your growing knowledge directly while providing paid career-related experience helping to offset academic costs while arming you with the information you need to make educated career choices.
Students in our program conduct research and gain scientific skills by working in academic research labs, industry, and/or government. Learn more about the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Co-op Program.
The Dalhousie Integrated Science Program (DISP) is a unique, immersive first-year option for motivated students looking to complete their first year of a science degree. You’ll work effectively in teams, explore connections across scientific disciplines, and complete a hands-on research project while building critical skills in data analysis, tech, and scientific communication.
You'll gain the background needed to understand the chemistry occurring in cells and living organisms and the biological function of large molecules like proteins and DNA. This skillset enables advances in biotechnology, human health, disease treatment, and more.
Admission requirements
Minimum admission requirements
To be considered for admission to this program, you must meet minimum academic criteria:
- Completion of secondary school (Grade 12)
- Achievement of the minimum average for your program of choice.
- Completion of Grade 12 English (or equivalent course).
Admission to many Dalhousie programs is competitive. This means that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
Program-specific admission requirements
To enter the Bachelor of Science program in your first year, you must meet the following high school course requirements:
Minimum overall average: 75%
Academic English 12
Pre-calculus Math 12
Three additional academic subjects
Note: All Bachelor of Science students enter the Faculty of Science as undeclared majors. This gives you the freedom to explore your scientific interests during your first year.
You will officially declare your Biochemistry & Molecular Biology major, minor, or specialized options at the end of your first year using your first-year science and math prerequisites.
Need Pre-Calculus, Chemistry, Physics, or another admission requirement? Our online, self-paced UPrep courses can help you earn the prerequisite you need, upgrade your marks, and build confidence before starting your degree at Dal. Explore UPrep courses.
