Biology-Chemistry

This major is excellent preparation for medical school or careers in dentistry, pharmacy, research and other rewarding fields. Develop a strong foundation in both biology and chemistry that will prepare you for a life of service and achievement.

Learn side by side with outstanding faculty

In small classes, you’ll increase your scientific understanding and develop your research skills by working hands on. Find a  home in Parmer Hall, the campus’s newest building, with 16 labs stocked with state-of-the-art scientific equipment.

Pursue your own scientific research starting freshman year, with full faculty mentoring and support—you may even qualify for grant funding. In a curriculum rooted in the liberal arts, you’ll expand your capacity for critical thinking, problem solving and effective communication. This interdisciplinary program is serious preparation for graduate study and professional success.

Amazing opportunities—on campus and beyond

Practical experience is built into the curriculum. Our internships draw on Chicago’s world-class research, cultural and medical resources. You’ll gain valuable experience at prestigious organizations such as Argonne National Laboratory, Brookfield Zoo, the Morton Arboretum, the Shedd Aquarium and Rush University Medical Center.

Combine academic study with compassionate service to people in need, or immerse yourself in a different society and culture through our outstanding study abroad programs.

Discover something new

You won’t have to wait until graduate school to collaborate with a brilliant faculty scholar; undergraduate research is a Dominican trademark. You can even apply for special funding from the university to support your original research. Our annual research expo each April gives students a chance to practice their presentation skills and demonstrate their scholarship. Topics of recent student projects include:

  • Chromatographic separation of natural product mixtures to obtain and characterize biologically active compounds
  • Host/guest interaction energetics from theory and experimental data
  • Synthesis and characterization of diazeniumdiolate nitroxy (HNO) donor
Antonio Milazzo

Biology-Chemistry Student

“The professors are demanding but also motivating. They really are mentors, and they make me want to work even harder. My goal after graduation is to continue my education in dental school.”

Prepare for a life of service and achievement

Professionals with rigorous training in the sciences are in more demand than ever before. Whether you’re targeting a career in medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, education, biomedical or pharmaceutical research, or another rewarding field, this major will give you the knowledge and skills you’ll need to achieve your most ambitious career goals.

Our graduates are thoughtful, knowledgeable, open to new ideas, skilled in the laboratory and proficient with the latest technologies. These skills prepare them to be leaders.

Hannah Gordon

Biology-Chemistry Student

“I considered a number of universities, but Dominican was easily my top choice because of its strong program in the health sciences. I was fortunate enough to receive a scholarship to the university. My goal now is to attend medical school.