The goal of the biochemistry curriculum is to give students a solid background in this unique discipline that combines chemistry and biology. Biochemistry is defined as the chemistry of living systems; it is the science that tries to explain how "lifeless" molecules work together to make "living" organisms. Understanding the macromolecules — proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates and lipids — is the foundation for understanding the living world. The goal of the program is to give students an understanding of the chemistry of life. The biochemistry curriculum at Manhattan College is designed exclusively for the undergraduate student. We have 10 full-time faculty of professorial rank with doctorates with a wide variety of specializations, as well as adjunct faculty and lab assistants. These faculty members are first and foremost teachers interested in and capable of teaching undergraduate students. They also recognize the necessity of research to keep abreast of and to be part of the changes taking place in their area of specialization. Their research work is carried out with the help of their undergraduate students. Our history of teaching excellence has always included introducing our students to sound scientific research. The Biochemistry program at Manhattan College is approved by the American Chemical Society (ACS), the national organization that measures programs for their standards of excellence. Our program features a hands-on laboratory component that prepares students for work in industry or graduate school. Our students have gone onto to graduate school at some of the nation’s top universities including Brown, Princeton, NYU, Georgetown, Columbia, U.C. Berkeley and Yale.

Because biochemistry is such a broad science, it is excellent preparation for many different careers. Biochemistry is an excellent major for students who plan to enter medical or dental school or any of the health professions, where biochemistry is a required part of the post-graduate curriculum. Biochemistry is also an excellent major for students who are considering careers in the pharmaceutical, food, cosmetics or biotech industries. Students who are thinking about research careers will find that biochemistry is one of the fastest growing fields today. There are many possibilities, so the biochemistry degree gives students a great deal of flexibility in their career choices. The biochemistry faculty are always available to discuss career decisions and graduate school choices. Some careers of interest for biochemistry majors include: Agriculture industries Anesthesiologist Biochemist Biomedical engineer Chemist Clinical research specialist Cytologist Dairy technologist Dentist Drug manufacture and design Forensic science Geneticist Laboratory supervisor Medicine and health Perfumer Pharmaceutical sales Pharmacist Physician Process development specialist Product development manager Quality control inspector Regulatory affairs specialist Research associate Technical writer Toxicologist