Which Biochemistry program is right for you?
- Biochemistry (Honours and Major)
- Biochemistry and Biotechnology (Combined Honours)
- Computational Biochemistry (Honours)
- Co-op
Additional Resources:
- Current Undergraduate Calendar
- First Year Course Selection Guide
- Apply Online
- The Carleton Advantage
Biochemistry (Honours and Major)
The science of biochemistry seeks to understand how organisms function by investigating chemical reactions and cellular structures at the molecular level. It asks how animals, plants, and bacteria make use of energy to grow, work, and reproduce. Many of the biochemist’s findings are of direct relevance to humanity- to understand disease, improve food production, and find new techniques to produce valuable products like vitamins and antibiotics. The biochemistry programs are one of the best training options for entry into medicine and other health sciences professional programs.
Career Options
Medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, pharmaceutical sciences, medical research, teaching, science policy analysis, patent review, medical research technology, environmental and toxicology consulting, forensic sciences.
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Biochemistry and Biotechnology (Combined Honours)
The science of biotechnology applies the basic principles of biochemistry and biology to the study and manipulation of living organisms in relation to industrial, medical, agricultural, and environmental problems. Some of the topics of current interest include genetic engineering, metabolic modification, applied microbiology and fermentation techniques, biological control, and culture and modification of cells and tissues. For example, in the Ottawa area, some local companies are involved in biofuel production from agricultural waste, development of medical diagnostic screening devices and research into anti-cancer and anti-microbial therapies.
Career Options
Industrial research & development, biotechnology consulting, medicine, medical research, pharmaceutical research and development, agricultural research, teaching, pharmaceutical marketing representative, university lab technician, science writing, environmental consulting, forensic sciences.
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Computational Biochemistry (Honours)
Biochemistry is an integral aspect of our lives. Computational Biochemistry combines intensive training in computer science with a strong background in biochemistry. It gives students a strong background in core areas of biology and chemistry such as genetics, cell biology, organic chemistry, and analytical chemistry. You will take a variety of lecture and laboratory biochemistry courses, including bioinformatics. Optional courses allow you to focus on areas such as molecular genetics, pharmaceutical drug design, functional genomics, and protein structure and function.
Career Options
Biomedical research and development, intelligent drug and enzyme design, pharmaceutical research, biomedical and genetic data analysis, industrial research and development, teaching, technical sales for biotechnology companies, biochemist assistant, biotechnology research and development, medical illustration, biochemical analyst.
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Co-op
Carleton’s flexible and innovative co-operative education program offers you the opportunity to apply your classroom studies in a job placement. You can gain at least 12 months of practical work experience in many different settings across the Ottawa area, including private-sector biotechnology firms, government and university laboratories, or pharmaceutical companies.
In order to begin the co-op program, students must have completed at least two years of an Honours Bachelor of Science program. Co-op students complete at least three work terms during their degree program.
To learn more about Carleton’s Co-operative Education program, visit the undergraduate calendar.
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