Academic Overview
Along with general education requirements, undergraduate students in the Department of Genetics and Biochemistry pursue degrees in either genetics or biochemistry. Research is a key part of the department’s programs, and undergraduate students have the opportunity to work closely with a wide range of faculty researchers in their laboratories.
Graduate students may pursue a M.S. or Ph.D. in genetics or biochemistry and molecular biology. Master’s degrees in either genetics or biochemistry and molecular biology are offered. The master’s program combines classroom and experiential learning to prepare students for the workforce or professional or research doctorates. The doctoral program is focused on developing experience and expertise in research, demonstrated through the production and oral defense of a written dissertation.
By the Numbers
➧ 550+
Undergraduate
Students
➧ 40
Instructional
Faculty
➧ 20
Master’s
Students
➧ 40
Doctoral
Students
Diverse Curriculum
Majoring in genetics or biochemistry at Clemson is about the hands-on experience. Clemson’s state-of-the-art facilities and extensive research equipment provide you with a world outside the classroom and inside the world of intensive research and innovative experimentation. There are also opportunities that allow you to make connections beyond Clemson, be it research institutes, clubs or simply interacting with highly qualified faculty.
“The genetics and biochemistry faculty are so understanding and welcoming, and they have a genuine passion for what they teach. I knew I found my place the first time I met Dr. Starr-Moss. She’s been my adviser, a ‘mom’ and she’s put me on the right pathway for my future.”
Lauren SaverinoUndergraduateGenetics and Biochemistry
Top Careers
A degree from the Department of Genetics and Biochemistry can also open up a world of financial reward and security. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- The median yearly income for genetic counselors is $80,150.
- The median yearly income for biochemists is $102,270
- The median yearly income for pharmacists is $128,570.
- The median yearly income for computer and information research scientists is $131,490.
- The median yearly income for physicians and surgeons is $208,000.
Creating Opportunities
Seifert Scholars Supports Undergrad Genetics, Biochem Students
Sadie English studied the parasite that causes African sleeping sickness to find better drugs to treat the disease’s debilitating and even deadly effects. English was one of the first Seifert Scholars for Undergraduate Research, a program that allows up to three undergraduate researchers to spend six weeks of the summer researching in a Eukaryotic Pathogens Innovation Center lab. Watch the video to hear more of Sadie’s story.
Watch the VideoChart Your Future
Undergraduate
Undergraduate students in the department may pursue a degree in either genetics or biochemistry. In addition to coursework, all undergraduate students are encouraged to engage in active research during their studies. Undergraduate students have the opportunity to work closely with a wide range of faculty researchers in their laboratories.
Graduate
Graduate students in the department may work toward master’s or doctoral degrees in either genetics or biochemistry and molecular biology. The master’s program is focused on developing experience and expertise through a thesis or non-thesis program of study, and doctoral program is focused on academic and research excellence.
