The mysteries of the world are waiting to be discovered. And you can have a front-row seat. Whether it’s advancements in human health or environmental sustainability, the study of life sciences has endless possibilities.
When you major in biochemistry and molecular biology at Nebraska Wesleyan, you will explore the molecular structure of living organisms and how they interact with our environment.
Biochemistry combines the study of biology and chemistry to investigate the structure, composition and chemical reactions of substances in complex living systems.
Molecular biology is the study of genes, variation in the genes, and expressions in the genes for people, animals and plants, as well as viruses and bacteria. This field overlaps particularly with genetics and biochemistry.
Students in this program join a long tradition of scientific research at NWU. You will get hands-on laboratory experience through coursework, research, internships and work studies that most students don’t see until graduate school.
Biochemistry majors may also take advantage of NWU's engineering dual degree program.
86% of our students are admitted to medical school compared to the national average of 41%. Other graduates continue to pharmacy or graduate study at prestigious research institutions like Northwestern, Iowa State, the University of Michigan and the Mayo Clinic School of Medicine. Others find lucrative careers in the bio-tech industry.
The NWU Chemistry Department has four doctorate professors with expertise in organic, inorganic, analytical and biomedical chemistry. They have earned degrees from Northwestern University, Cornell University and the University of Michigan, and they are willing and eager to share their experience and expertise to help you reach your goals.
100%
Opportunities to do research
86%
Acceptance rate into medical school
100%
of classes taught by doctorate professors
A new partnership between Nebraska Wesleyan University and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s College of Engineering creates a formal pathway for students to earn related degrees from both institutions.
Reese Wilcox (’24) has already achieved what few undergraduates do—co-author a research paper published in Scientific Reports.
"Being published as an undergraduate is a huge honor," Wilcox said. "It’s rare and will definitely strengthen my application to MD-PhD (physician-scientist) programs."
Kaitlyn Georgiana (’24) wants to turn personal tragedy into breakthrough stem cell research for expectant mothers and babies.
The YMCA of Lincoln recently joined forces with students from Nebraska Wesleyan University (NWU) for a problem-solving competition aimed at increasing awareness, inclusivity, and participation in the YMCA's programs.
Students who complete an Associate of Science in Biotechnology degree from Southeast Community College will soon have the opportunity to transfer those hours to Nebraska Wesleyan University and pursue a bachelor’s degree.
Microbiome scientist Megan Larsen, PhD describes how her doctorate journey started at NWU. Faculty-led trips fueled her interest in oceanography and inspired a research fellowship at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).