Karen Glover, Ph.D.
Chair and Associate Professor of Chemistry
The technology-rich environment at Clarke provides students with great hands-on opportunities.
Biochemistry
Bachelor of Science
Biochemistry is the study of how living organisms work. Professionals in the field are interested in:
- The molecular changes that occur within organisms.
- The conversion of food to cellular components.
- The provision of energy to drive bodily processes.
- The chemical nature of genes and the way in which these specify and control biological processes.
One of the most stimulating aspects of biochemistry is its increasing interaction with medicine. Biochemists study the molecular basis of diseases such as diabetes, cancer, cystic fibrosis, and AIDS, and this enables definitive diagnosis and development of cures. This makes biochemistry a choice major for students wishing to attend medical school.
Program Details
Biochemistry includes the study of chemistry and biology with additional support from physics and mathematics. You’ll study the nature of diseases and undertake the design of drugs and production of vaccines and human hormones. You’ll study the molecular basis of diseases such as diabetes, cancer, cystic fibrosis, and AIDS, and this enables definitive diagnosis and development of cures. You will also become skilled at analyzing the bioethical issues challenging the scientific community. Your learning will be hands-on and visual. You will see and do, not just listen.
Admission to Clarke University
Applicants are considered on an individual basis. Apply to Clarke today to begin your journey.
Program in Pictures
Clarke student experiment
Tony Breitbach, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Chemistry
My goal as an instructor is to facilitate students in realizing their educational goals, and to foster a deeper understanding, appreciation, and enjoyment for the subject.
Sunil Malapati, Ph.D.
Professor of Chemistry
When an alumna at a medical school tells me that she is the go-to person for biochemistry first-year students and credits my course for her preparedness, I know I made an impact.
Jason Stecklein, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Physics
I believe I push for each student to develop and think deeply about their knowledge of science and not simply give ‘understanding’ to them. We do lots of talking, arguing, laughing, and negotiating our understandings, together as a class group.
Necla Demir, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Chemistry/Food Science
I am passionate about teaching and learning from challenging students. It has been so rewarding helping a new program come to fruition.
There’s more to college than going to class.
The Classroom and Beyond
Facilities & Equipment
Clarke’s modern science building and 10-table cadaver lab provide a unique and hands-on learning environment.
Internships
You will learn by observation and participation at off-campus laboratories or field settings through internships and experiential education ventures. Internships often facilitate entrance into the job market and are highly recommended for acceptance into some graduate programs.
Careers in Biochemistry
What can I do with a degree in this major?
Clubs & Organizations
HIPPO Society holds a reception each fall for local physicians, dentists, and veterinarians, allowing students to make professional connections. In the Biology Club, experience fun things like the Phylum Feast, where you can sample mealworm pizza, dirt cups, and chocolate-covered crickets – if you dare!
The Clarke Compass
Through your Clarke experience, you will be involved in many different activities that will guide you on your college journey. By your senior year, you will have a résumé of all your awesome involvements packaged and ready for your first interview.
Study Abroad
Clarke University offers several faculty-sponsored study abroad experiences to destinations such as Spain, Scotland, Ireland, and Japan. Study abroad trips encourage you to experience different cultures, broaden your mind, and discover your own passions.
But don’t take our word for it…
Our Students & Alumni
Josh Prindle
Biochemistry and English '18
Liberal arts allows me to pick more than one area of focus. If I want to study English and biochemistry, I can do that, and Clarke will help me.
Courtney Traser
Biology '13
The ability to learn using human cadavers is a rarity that most undergraduate students do not get. Dr. Slover’s passion for what she taught was evident and infectious, and my experiences with her and her encouragement motivated me.
Brad Weimerskirch
Biochemistry '13
After Clarke, I earned my Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Iowa in 2018. Clarke really was the foundation for my success.
11
%
Job growth
Percent the biochemistry workforce will grow by 2026, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
100
%
Job placement
Percent of Clarke biochemistry graduates who secured a job in their chosen field or enrolled in graduate school by August.
85.2
%
Happy people
Chemistry majors rate among the highest in job satisfaction after graduation – 85.2% – according to studentsreview.com.
Other Programs to Explore
Experience Clarke Biochemistry for Yourself