Biochem vs Chem degree?

[SpaceHamsterBoo]

I've been reviewing the AAMC data on matriculants from 2011 (https://www.aamc.org/download/161692/data/table18.pdf) and it seems a high percentage of physical sciences applicants matriculate compared to biological sciences applicants.

Based on what I've read on SDN, a chem degree is infinitely more useful than a bio degree. What about a biochem degree? How does biochem compare to chemistry, in terms of employ-ability if I'm not accepted?

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[ROZAY]

I've been reviewing the AAMC data on matriculants from 2011 (https://www.aamc.org/download/161692/data/table18.pdf) and it seems a high percentage of physical sciences applicants matriculate compared to biological sciences applicants.

Based on what I've read on SDN, a chem degree is infinitely more useful than a bio degree. What about a biochem degree? How does biochem compare to chemistry, in terms of employ-ability if I'm not accepted?

hahahah **** biochem

 

[Galatasaray]

no one cares about the major of the degree you got if you're a competitive applicant gpa and mcat wise....
from what i see, there is a difference in mcat scores. this might have something to do with the fact that chemistry and physics majors on average tend to be better at PS and the organic chem part of the BS. the reason for this could be better preparation with that major or that major is selective for students who are good at those things.

in terms of employability, i would imagine that chemistry is slightly more versatile since the chemistry major usually includes biochemistry courses, nmr courses, synthesis courses, all things which could be useful in industry. the bio major at my school is a much narrower major and only requires only one upper level lab course.

 

[Galatasaray]

really it's more about the skills you get as an undergrad in the lab courses and by doing summer research. those are what would help you to get a job in industry or research (although it's difficult without an MA)

 

[Dave89]

I've been reviewing the AAMC data on matriculants from 2011 (https://www.aamc.org/download/161692/data/table18.pdf) and it seems a high percentage of physical sciences applicants matriculate compared to biological sciences applicants.

Based on what I've read on SDN, a chem degree is infinitely more useful than a bio degree. What about a biochem degree? How does biochem compare to chemistry, in terms of employ-ability if I'm not accepted?

I would go with biochem

1) Both have great opportunity - but I think the pharmaceutical industry is looking like a very lucrative field right now, so biochem is slightly better on this front. It's all about specialization, and biochem is specialized chemistry.

2) Biochem will be incredibly helpful for the MCAT and med school

3) If you're interested in biological/life sciences, why go into chemistry?

4) The pre-reqs are likely the same, so there's time to change your mind whichever you choose.

 

[SpaceHamsterBoo]

I would go with biochem

1) Both have great opportunity - but I think the pharmaceutical industry is looking like a very lucrative field right now, so biochem is slightly better on this front. It's all about specialization, and biochem is specialized chemistry.

2) Biochem will be incredibly helpful for the MCAT and med school

3) If you're interested in biological/life sciences, why go into chemistry?

4) The pre-reqs are likely the same, so there's time to change your mind whichever you choose.

I've not had much exposure to biology but from what I've seen, I've decided that I hate plants and animals.

I think Biochem will definitely be an easier degree than chem; a higher gpa is always better. I also agree with your sentiments that Biochem is specialized chemistry and is infinitely more applicable to med school. I'm going to stick with my gut feelings and stay with Biochem.

 

[cuculici1]

Both are pretty similar. If you are pre-med, you have to take Intro Bio anyway so Biochem would probably be the better choice. Pure Chem majors often have to take higher level math as well as calculus based physics. If you are pre-med, you will have to take your Bio classes on top of those extra requirements. There is more overlap with pre-med and Biochem, so I would probably go that route. Both Chemistry and Biochemistry are very similar in terms of their requirements, however.

 

[PreMedOrDead]

The only reason for majors having better test averages would be self selection. Most 'average' students don't go into harder physical science majors because their GPA would tank. Biochem and Chemistry alike. The MCAT doesn't test upper level material.