BSc Chemistry or BSc Biochemistry: Which Degree Should You Choose?

Shuchi Bagchi

Updated On: October 28, 2025 01:30 PM

Confused between choosing BSc Chemistry and BSc Biochemistry? Get informed about course details, subjects, salary packages and career prospects to make the right choice.

BSc Chemistry or BSc Biochemistry

BSc Chemistry and BSc Biochemistry are two highly sought-after courses for students interested in pursuing higher studies after completing Class 12th education. However, determining which of these two is the right degree to opt for can be tricky. Students must know the broader distinctions between the two courses. To help students gain a better understanding of these subjects, this article provides an overview of BSc Chemistry and BSc Biochemistry programmes in detail, subjects, difficulty level and career prospects.

Also Check - Top Private Colleges for B.Sc Chemistry Admission Without Entrance Exam

BSc Chemistry vs BSc Biochemistry: Key Differences, Core Topics, Difficulty Level

Check out the difference between BSc Chemistry vs BSc Biochemistry in detail from the table below:

Particulars

BSc Chemistry

BSc Biochemistry

Focus

Study of chemical properties and reactions of matter

Study of chemical processes in living organisms

Core topics

Organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry

Biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, and cell biology

Career paths

Chemical industry, pharmaceuticals, research

Biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, research

Lab skills emphasized

Chemical synthesis, analysis, instrumentation

Techniques for handling biomolecules, protein purification

Related fields

Materials science, nanotechnology, engineering

Biomedical sciences, biophysics, immunology

Pre-requisites

Strong background in mathematics and physics

Strong background in biology, chemistry, and mathematics

Typical courses

General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry

Biochemistry, Genetics, Cell Biology, Immunology

Potential research areas

Materials chemistry, nanotechnology, drug development

Protein structure and function, metabolic pathways

Difficulty level

The concepts are heavy with emphasis in chemical equations and mathematics

The subject combines Biology and Chemistry and is practically heavy

BSc Chemistry vs BSc Biochemistry: Salary Packages for Graduates

The salary packages offered for BSc Biochemistry and BSc Chemistry graduate students vary based on the job profile, experience, job location and industry. The average salary for BSc Biochemistry graduates (freshers) ranges from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, while the average salary for BSc Chemistry graduates (freshers) ranges from INR 2-4 lakhs per annum. However, with higher qualifications and experience in the industry, the salary packages can go up to INR 8-10 lakhs per annum.

BSc Chemistry vs BSc Biochemistry: Career Prospects and Scope

The career prospects after BSc Chemistry and BSc Biochemistry are quite promising. Both the specializations open up a door to various in-demand job roles in today's job market. Here is a list of professions you can pursue after completing either of these courses:
Specialization Industry/ Sector Most In-demand Job Roles
B.Sc. Chemistry

Pharmaceuticals

Petrochemicals

Environmental agencies

Materials science

Chemical industry

Chemical technician

Quality analyst

Research chemist

B.Sc. Biochemistry

Biotechnology

Healthcare

Medical research

Environmental science

Agricultural industries

Molecular biologist

Clinical biochemist

Forensic scientist

Biotechnologist

Also Check - CUET or State Entrance Exams: Which Is Tougher for B.Sc Chemistry Students?

BSc Chemistry vs BSc Biochemistry: Scope for Higher Studies

Have a look at the higher study options available in BSc Chemistry and BSc Biochemistry course below:

BSc Chemistry Higher Study Options

BSc Biochemistry Higher Study Options

MSc Chemistry

MSc Biochemistry

Analytical Chemistry

Biotechnology

Organic Chemistry

Molecular Biology

Physical Chemistry

Biomedical Sciences

BSc Chemistry vs BSc Biochemistry: What Degree Should You Choose?

The BSc Chemistry is useful for students interested in pure science, chemical reactions, chemical reactions and industrial applications. Whereas the BSc Biochemistry subject is suitable for students who are curious about how Chemistry is incorporated in the life processes and the identification of diseases through Biochemical processes. If the student wants to apply Chemistry to Biological processes, they can opt for the BSc in Biochemistry course. If they are interested in the fundamental principles of Chemistry and their application in various fields, they must choose to study BSc Chemistry. The student must choose the career options based on their interest as they have to pursue the studies ahead.

If you have any queries, check out the QnA Zone . For help regarding admissions, fill out the Common Application Form (CAF) or call our helpline number 18005729877. Stay tuned to CollegeDekho for more updates!

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FAQs

What are the career fields in BSc Chemistry subject?

The career fields in the BSc Chemistry subject are:

  • Chemical Industries
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Quality Control

What is the main subject in the BSc Biochemistry curriculum?

Main subjects in the BSc Biochemistry curriculum are: 

  • Molecular Biology
  • Biomolecules
  • Genetics
  • Cell Biology

What is the main subject in the BSc Chemistry curriculum?

Main subjects in the BSc Chemistry curriculum are: 

  • Organic
  • Inorganic
  • Analytical 
  • Environmental Chemistry

What is the core focus in the BSc Biochemistry curriculum?

The core focus in the BSc Biochemistry curriculum is the study of chemical processes in living organisms and the study of biomolecules. 

What is the core focus in the BSc Chemistry curriculum?

The core focus in the BSc Chemistry curriculum is the study of matter, its structure and composition and properties. 

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