Maddisyn Behney ’26 Named Goldwater Scholar
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
LVC's nationally recognized biochemistry molecular biology program combines chemistry and biology with an emphasis on real-world exploration through student-faculty research. This major gives you a strong background in the life sciences and the flexibility to customize your degree according to your career goals.
Building on this foundation, upper division course work in molecular and cellular biology allows students interested in health science and scientific research to explore biological systems at molecular levels. The major requirements within the biological sciences emphasize key areas such as biochemistry degree pathways and structural biology, preparing students for advanced biology programs and a wide range of professional opportunities.
Learn More About the Biochem Program
As a biochemistry and molecular biology major, you’ll have the opportunity to work with top researchers in the field and present your findings in peer-reviewed journals and conferences. When you graduate, you’ll be ahead of the pack and well on your way to a fulfilling and fascinating career in the life sciences. Need-based departmental scholarships are available.
7
LVC biochem/molecular bio graduates have received NIH fellowships in the last 14 years
80%
(8 of 10) Class of 2023 Medical School Acceptance Rate (National Average = 42% [Class of 2022])
100%
(3 of 3) Class of 2023 Dental School Acceptance Rate (National Average = 53.5% [American Dental Education Association])
6%
Projected employment growth for biochemists and biophysicists from 2024 to 2034 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
$130K
Annual median wage for biochemists and biophysicists in 2024 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
100%
(3 of 3) Class of 2023 Pharmacy School Acceptance Rate (National Average = 89% [March 2023])
90%
(9 of 10) Class of 2023 Veterinary School Acceptance Rate (National Average = 10-15%)
100%
(3 of 3) Class of 2023 Optometry School Acceptance Rate (National Average = 74%)
62.5%
(5 of 8) LVC Five-year Physician Assistant Acceptance Rate (National Average = 31%)
Career Opportunities
Biochemistry and molecular biology graduates are well-positioned for careers in medicine, life sciences research, pharmaceutical sciences, bioanalytical chemistry, and microbiology—fields that continue to show strong demand. For example, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, careers such as biochemists and biophysicists are projected to grow faster than the national average, with median annual earnings exceeding $100,000, reflecting the long-term value and versatility of this degree across science-driven industries.
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Physician
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Molecular Biologist
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Veterinarian
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Biotechnologist
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Epidemiologist
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Precision Medicine Researcher
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Molecular Diagnostics Specialist
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Biotechnology Research Scientist
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Professor
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Dentist
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Food and Drug Researcher
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Agricultural Scientist
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Bioinformatics Analyst
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Microbiologist (Clinical or Industrial)
In Their Words
My internship at Penn State University College of Medicine was an enlightening experience on what truly awaits me once I graduate. I gained hands-on participation in the field of substance abuse disorders and acquired a unique understanding of how in-depth research can open a world of opportunities.
Kyrsten Derr
’26,
biochemistry and molecular biology
LVC pushed me to think beyond the normal thought process. This not only challenged me, but also taught me to challenge my abilities in the real-world to do more and do better.
Heather Tran Smail
’14,
QC Project Specialist, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)
It is somewhat surreal to be where I am now with two degrees and a full-time position. I always thought that this level of success was achievable, and now that I have reached this point, I look back and see just how much LVC helped me reach my goals.
Amy Evans
’16,
Forensic Scientist and DNA Technician, Dover Air Force Base
Faculty Spotlight
