Chemical and Biological Sciences
A bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or biology will help you unlock a future full of discovery, innovation, and understanding. Earning it at Rockford University means you’ll achieve your degree with a wide variety of students taught by experts in their field.
Biology and Chemistry/Biochemistry
We live in a world shaped by revolutionary new technologies, many of which require an understanding of the chemical and biological sciences. A number of science-related topics regularly make the news: advances in medicine and biotechnology, global climate change, pollution, environmental concerns, species diversity, genetics, forensics, and food science. Whether you want to go into research, become a medical professional, continue your education in graduate school, or teach science, one thing is certain, you’ll want to study at Rockford University. Our faculty has the right mix of experience in education and in practical research, enabling our students to learn from experts in their field who also have a passion for teaching. You’ll spend time in lectures and labs, out in the natural world, and engaged in the exciting process of discovery.
Careers and Internships
Rockford University graduates with majors in biology and chemistry or biochemistry experience success in a wide variety of careers. They work in industry, as teachers at the high school level, and in government positions like wildlife management and environmental research. Private industry uses trained scientists in areas such as sales, management, research, and writing. Quite a few of our science graduates have chosen to continue their education at the graduate and professional school level to work in health care like medicine or pharmacy, to teach at the university level, and to be leaders in research.
Career Opportunities
What can I do with a major in chemistry?
What can I do with a major in biochemistry?
Internship Opportunities
The science curriculum at Rockford University is designed to develop a strong educational foundation along with the practical skills to perform research in the biological or chemical sciences. Rockford University works with a variety of companies and organizations in the Rockford area to provide research and internship opportunities for biology and chemistry or biochemistry majors. On campus, students are challenged to design and implement a research project of choice with the guidance of a faculty advisor. To supplement research experiences on campus, many students intern with local companies and other universities or have completed research projects though the National Science Foundation’s ‘Research Experiences for Undergraduates’ program. Learn more about the National Science Foundation’s Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU). Students have taken advantage of internship opportunities for credit and to enrich their learning experience. To learn more about research and internship opportunities please contact the chair, Dr. Deborah Breiter.
Student Resources
- Looking for a place to study or just hang out? We have two separate spaces that our science students use, Starr Science Building 226 and 416.
- Looking for some help in biology, chemistry or biochemistry? Visit our science study spaces to find peer help, or visit The HUB located in the library for peer academic coaches.
- Looking for new friends interested in science? Join Alpha-Helix, our student-run science club.
Get Involved!
Our Alpha Helix Club brings together students in scientific fields to work together to advance their education and career opportunities, and to establish a student community that helps each other achieve. Alpha Helix fosters a community of scientists who are brought together to learn, grow, and give back to the Rockford community through volunteer opportunities.
For more information about careers and internships please visit our Careers and Research and Internship Opportunities page.
Rockford College/Rockford University Alum?
The CBS Department would love to hear from you! What are you doing these days? Please email the department chair, Dr. Deb Breiter, or contact the Rockford University Alumni Office.
Contact Rockford University for More Information
To set up a campus tour, reach out to us at 815-226-4050. You can also schedule a personal tour through our website. We’re excited to welcome you to our campus and show you how we can help you earn a degree in biology, biochemistry, or chemistry.
Chemical and Biological Sciences
Starr Science Building
5050 E. State St.
Rockford, IL 61108
815-226-4170
Fax: 815-394-5166Department Chair:
Dr. Deborah R. Breiter
