Biochemistry (BSc)
Explore the chemical foundations of living organisms.
Why choose this program?
Pursuing a degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Dal gives you the opportunity to study the building blocks of life. Learn from professors who are conducting exciting research in evolutionary and genome biology and the metabolic basis of disease and cancer. At Dal, you’ll set yourself up for a career in an emerging field at the forefront of discovery in medicine and biotechnology.
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
Minimum overall average: 75%
Academic English 12
Pre-calculus Math 12
Three additional academic subjects
Financial information
A university education is a significant financial investment. Every student is unique, and so are their financial circumstances. We offer competitive tuition, a robust scholarship and bursary program, and resources and support to help you explore financial options and develop a plan that works for you.
Program options
Dal Science offers a host of opportunities for you to explore interests and customize your degree. If you prefer smaller class sizes, some of our programs have the option of completing your first year on our Truro Campus. Whether you decide to enroll in the Integrated Science Program, get an honours degree, or pursue a combination of disciplines, our team of advisors will help you figure out how to tailor your degree to fit you perfectly.
From summer research awards, internships, working as a teaching assistant, or getting involved with SuperNOVA summer camps, there are many ways to gain hands-on experience during your degree. Many of our programs offer a co-op option that gives you real-world, paid experience in your field while making the connections you need to kick start your career. Science co-op students apply the latest theories to fields including biotechnology, conservation, agriculture, medicine, meteorology, and economics, and many more.
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:
BSc (120 credit hour) Honours (Concentrated)*
BSc (120 credit hour) Combined Honours*
BSc (120 credit hour) Major*
BSc (120 credit hour) Double Major*
BSc (90 credit hour) Minor in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Minor in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
What you will learn
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology are the molecular basis of life. You’ll get a deeper understanding of the biological function of large molecules such as proteins and DNA and interpret complex processes that define all living organisms.
Sample courses may include:
Introductory Biochemistry
Writing for the Sciences
Integrated Science I
Introductory Biochemistry Lab
Introduction to Biochemistry
Becoming a Scientist
Introduction to the History of Science I
Intermediary Metabolism
Nucleic Acid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Laboratory Research Techniques in Biomedical Sciences
Biomolecular Chemistry
Biochemistry of Lipids
Genes and Genomes
Mechanisms of Signal Transduction
Gene Expression
You'll begin with foundation courses in biology and chemistry. Then, after an introduction to biochemistry theory and laboratory skills, you'll begin specialization in areas of biochemistry and molecular biology. In your fourth year, you'll have the opportunity to complete an honours project, gaining experience in hands-on laboratory research.
Careers
Dalhousie offers the only undergraduate (B.Sc.) and graduate (M.Sc. and Ph.D.) degree programs in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology in the Maritime provinces. Graduates can be found working in government, private sector, academic and health-care environments. Your degree qualifies you for many jobs straight out of school at the technical or research assistant level, and could lead to exciting career opportunities.
Future studies may include programs at the graduate level such as a Master of Science (MSc) or PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. A BSc in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is also one of the best undergraduate foundations for professional programs such as medicine.
