Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with Biochemistry Concentration

St. Francis Xavier University

Life ultimately boils down to a series of chemical reactions. Biochemistry is a scientific field that focuses on the chemical processes occurring at cellular and molecular levels. The field combines chemistry and biology for examining chemical reactions and chemical structures in living organisms, with an aim of understanding function and, where possible, to use such information to exert influence over these functions.This type of information could be used to understand the molecular mechanism of various diseases and/or health inequalities, to develop new vaccines and medical treatments, to genetically engineer crops to withstand changing climate conditions, or to produce sustainable fuels using biological reactions – just to name a few examples.You should consider biochemistry if you enjoyed your high school chemistry and biology courses and would like to combine these subjects together. Biochemistry is also a good option if you have an interest in medicine, pharmacology, or food science and would like to gain a better understanding of how our body works.Our small, primarily undergraduate university offers an intimate and student-centered learning environment. StFX faculty in Chemistry and Biology are actively engaged in research in a variety of fields – from identifying the molecular basis of inflammatory diseases to developing new biosensors for pathogenic bacteria. Opportunities exist for students (particularly B.Sc. Honours students) to become involved in research projects, providing experiential learning in leading-edge research areas of Biochemistry.The B.Sc. (Chemistry, Biochemistry Concentration) prepares students well for careers in Health Sciences, Industrial, and Environmental professions, particularly:Medical professions (medicine, dentistry, pharmacy)Veterinary studiesForensic scienceMedical discovery/researchPharmaceutical researchGovernment/regulatory agenciesBiotechnology