BA/BS in Biochemistry

This program leads to a Bachelor of Science with a focus on biochemistry and molecular biology at Dalhousie University, delivered by the Faculty of Science at the Halifax campus, with certain years also available at the Truro and Bible Hill campuses, and admitting students in September and January. The curriculum examines the chemical basis of life, covering the structure and function of biological molecules alongside cell biology, genetics, and applications in biotechnology and medicine. Students can pursue the subject as a concentrated or combined honours degree, as a major (including a double major), or as a minor, and may add a co-op option consisting of three work terms integrated with academic study. Additional certificates are available in areas such as genetics, bioinformatics, medicinal chemistry, and science communication and leadership, and an integrated science program offers an alternative first-year route for motivated students. Coursework begins with foundational biology, chemistry, and mathematics before moving into laboratory-based biochemistry, cell biology, and genetics, and then upper-year study of bioinformatics, genomics, metabolism, and signal transduction. First-year students enter the Faculty of Science as undeclared majors and formally declare biochemistry and molecular biology after their first year. The program suits students aiming at biomedical research, biotechnology, or further health-professional training, including graduate study, dentistry, or medicine.