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
Advancing Research Opportunities
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 department provided me with great support and prepared me for my future career. The instructors are so helpful even beyond academics. I am grateful to Drs. Paul and Morris, as they took their time to guide me through my Ph.D. application process. Our department is super supportive!”
Ruxi Xia ’25Biochemistry AlumGenetics 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 Program Encourages Research
Through the Seifert Scholars Program, Gunar Sekhon studies Aspergillus fumigatus, a common soil fungus that infects the lungs of people with weakened immune systems or chronic lung diseases like cystic fibrosis, causing coughing, shortness of breath and fever. The Seifert Scholars is a prestigious undergraduate research program funded by the Seifert family that provides summer stipends for students to pursue innovative research. Watch the video to hear more of Sekhon’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.
