Prospective Students
What is Biochemistry?
There are many subdisciplines and branches of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, to get a feel for the field look through our faculty research areas. Perhaps the best way to understand what Biochemistry is, is to engage in it through research. As an undergraduate student in Biochemistry at UBC, there are numerous opportunities to participate in research with our faculty through co-op, honours thesis work, directed studies, work learn and summer research projects.
While Biochemistry can be defined in many ways, it is much more then a mix of biology and chemistry. The heart of the discipline is the desire to understand life at the molecular level. An undergraduate degree in biochemistry is an excellent foundation for the many areas of life sciences, biotechnology, forensic sciences and medicine.
Program Highlights
- Join a research-intensive department where you can engage in research through work-learn, summer student positions and directed studies and Honours theses
- World-class teaching labs
- Theoretical foundational courses to prepare you for exciting future careers and graduate and professional programs
- Discussion and problem based learning centered classes
- Course work with practical hands on skill development
- Multiple specializations offered to cater to specific interests
Testimonials
“I graduated from the UBC Biochemistry Honours program in 2021 and am now doing my PhD in protein engineering at Oxford University. UBC Biochemistry provided me with an incredible breadth and depth of knowledge from across chemistry, biology, genetics and biochemistry. Overall the program was a perfect foundation for a future career in research.”
Lasya Vankayala
UBC Biochemistry Honours 2022 Graduate
“As a current MD/PhD student, I believe the
future of medicine is exciting, with an increasing emphasis on targeted and precision molecular therapeutics. Biochemistry is an excellent and essential foundation for anyone interested in harnessing the molecules of life to treat and cure disease.”
Dhiraj Mannar
UBC Biochemistry Class of 2019
“Word on the street is that Biochemistry can, at times, be challenging. I don’t think I would contend with that statement. That being said, I struggle to recall a time where I’ve felt detached or uncertain about my place in this program. Faculty are outstandingly accommodating and passionate about what they teach.”
Mohammed Alseragi
UBC Biochemistry Class of 2026
“I initially pursued Biochemistry at UBC due to my curiosity about natural systems and their molecular mechanisms, but I soon found myself excited about more than the lecture content. Third- and fourth-year biochemistry labs, along with upper year discussion-based courses combined theory with group-based problem solving, which fostered my love for research, instilled a sense of community among my cohort, and were the highlight of my undergraduate journey.”
Oliver Hong
UBC Biochemistry Class of 2024
“Having Biochemistry as my undergraduate degree has provided an excellent foundation for the Master of Public Health program. The rigour of the Biochemistry program prepares you for success in the master’s program and offers a unique perspective on public health. It equips you with the toolset to better understand diseases at the cellular and individual levels.”
Catalina Ionescu
UBC Biochemistry Class of 2023
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Biochemistry Programs