Biochemistry is a fundamental multidisciplinary science that explores the molecular aspects of life and is the basis for many other disciplines in life sciences, including cell and molecular biology, microbiology, genetics and molecular medicine.
Biotechnology is the application of biochemistry to develop technologies, materials and products that help improve, replenish and sustain the health of our planet.
ABOUT BIOCHEMISTRY / BIOTECHNOLOGY AT LAURIER
In our program, we emphasize the health and pharmaceutical sciences, which constitute more than 50% of the total activity in biochemical research and biotechnology in Canada.
You’ll take several courses in mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology and biochemistry, along with courses in applied biochemistry, and gain the practical skills and the academic knowledge you’ll need to succeed in a career in research, service, industry or academia.
You’ll benefit from a research-intensive environment. In your fourth year, you'll have an option to complete a senior thesis research project. The thesis option will provide you with hands-on experience using state-of-the-art equipment in a new and challenging area of biochemical research.
The Canadian Society for Chemistry has accredited the thesis option of this program.
BE CAREER READY OR PREPARED FOR FURTHER STUDY
This program will provide you with the practical and research skills needed to meet the demanding requirements of biotechnology, pharmaceutical and chemical companies, as well as biochemical and health science research and service laboratories.
Our program also provides a strong educational background for those interested in continuing their studies at the graduate level in chemistry, biochemistry, biotechnology, biophysics, medicine, pharmacy, dentistry or other health science-related programs.
Program Highlights
- In our program you’ll benefit from a research-intensive environment, especially in your fourth year when you can complete a senior thesis research project, which will provide you with hands-on experience.
- Our students are eligible to receive Summer Research Awards from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada.
Sample Courses
- Advanced Molecular Biochemistry
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Molecular Principles of Drug Design
- Bioenergetics and Catabolic Pathways
- Biochemistry in Diagnostics and Therapy
- Applied Enzymology
- Bioanalytical Chemistry
- Design Your Degree
These are a few popular academic opportunities which allow you to broaden your knowledge:
- Biology Minor
- minors in science, social science or humanities disciplines
SAMPLE CAREER OPTIONS
- biochemist/biotechnologist
- brewmaster
- crime scene analyst
- crop/agricultural scientist
- drug trial assistant/researcher
- environmental consultant
- epidemiology researcher
- forensic lab analyst
- hazardous waste expert
- health policy consultant
- immunologist
- industrial hygienist
- laboratory technician
- materials production tester
- natural resources manager
- pharmacist
- pharmacologist
- physician