Biochemistry Degree: What are my Grad School options?

[obsoletelogic]

Hello, I'm in something of a unique situation. I was a Cell & Molecular Biology major, but I have since realized that I'm really more passionate about Chemistry. I am deeply considering changing my major to Biochemistry (the degrees have significant overlap at my university but are offered by different departments).

However, I am becoming more and more interested in inorganic chemistry, especially chemistry as a materials science, and in the application of other fields like organic chemistry. What I am wondering is, if my interest pervades through the rest of my undergraduate career, I could apply to chemistry graduate programs in different disciplines?

That is to say, could I apply to graduate school and work in an inorganic or organic lab despite having a degree in Biochemistry instead of Chemistry? Biochem degrees at my university have to take two semesters worth of Organic and Physical chem, as well as one semester's worth of Analytical Chemistry, and a slew of Biochemistry credits. I planned on taking the Inorganic classes offered here as my electives.

I apologize in advance if this is a stupid question, I was just hoping to get some input from graduate students or others with experience that don't work in the molecular biology research lab I currently volunteer in.

EDIT: I should add: the reason I cannot change my major to Chemistry is that it would take slightly longer, and that is not financially feasible for me at this time.

 

[R.Mesri]

It is possible to apply to graduate school and work in an inorganic or organic lab with a degree in Biochemistry. However, it may be beneficial for you to take additional courses in the areas you are interested in. With a degree in Biochemistry, you would still need to demonstrate a strong background in inorganic and organic chemistry, as well as analytical chemistry. Depending on the program, they may require that you have coursework in those areas beyond the minimum requirements for a Biochemistry degree. Therefore, it may be beneficial for you to take additional courses as electives that focus on inorganic and organic chemistry to make your application more competitive. Additionally, research experience related to inorganic and organic chemistry would also help to demonstrate your interest and knowledge in those areas.