Public Policy
The Public Policy concentration allows Biochemistry students to apply their scientific knowledge to policies affecting agriculture, public health, biotechnology, environmental sciences, and scientific research. Students explore the connection between science and public policy while learning about the legal, ethical, and societal factors that influence scientific development and decision-making. This concentration prepares students for careers such as science policy analyst, regulatory affairs specialist, public health policy analyst, government scientist, biotechnology policy specialist, science advisor, and research program manager. The Public Policy concentration is offered within the Biochemistry major.
Occupational Outlook Handbook: The median annual wage for political scientists was $139,380 in May 2024.
Curriculum
What classes will I take with a biochemistry major, public policy concentration?
View the curriculumCareers
What types of jobs could I get with a biochemistry degree, public policy concentration?
This degree program focuses on training students to either go to graduate school in food science or related areas or work in one of the following career paths:
- Science policy analyst
- Regulatory affairs specialist
- Public health policy analyst
- Environmental policy analyst
- Biotechnology policy specialist
- Science advisor
- Healthcare policy consultant
- Regulatory Affairs Specialist
- Bioethicist
Work Environment
Where would I work with a biochemistry degree, public policy concentration?
This concentration is ideal for students interested in careers at the intersection of science and public service, including government agencies, nonprofit organizations, regulatory affairs, advocacy, science policy, and legislative analysis. It also provides excellent preparation for graduate and professional programs in public policy, law, public health, and related fields.
Transfer Guide
Can I transfer to Mississippi State?
Students may transfer to Mississippi State University from regionally accredited community, junior or senior colleges for any period of enrollment, provided they have earned a 2.0 GPA (as computed by Mississippi State University) on all college courses attempted as well as earned a 2.0 GPA on the 30-hours of core courses. Transfer students should look at the transfer course equivalent guide to determine which courses will transfer.
Internships
Are there any internship opportunities?
Internships and/or professional experience prepares students for future careers in Food Science. A significant percentage of employers prefer students with work experience outside of a college environment to students with no experience, according to new data released by the Chronicle of Higher Education. Students should check with the MSU Career Center or the program coordinator for internship opportunities.
Scholarships
How do I apply for scholarships?
Students may apply for university, college and departmental scholarships through one application. You can find the scholarship application once you login to myState. Under the banner tab, select Financial Aid and Scholarships. The application is listed as Submit/Revise General Scholarship Application.
Organizations
How can I get involved?
The Department of Biochemistry, Nutrition and Health Promotion encourages its students to take advantage of the many experiences offered by the departmental student organizations and teams. Clubs are a great way to develop leadership skills and to learn about the various food industries. Learn more about organizations in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.