Biochemistry

Our BSc Biochemistry course provides a theoretical and practical knowledge of biochemistry. As well as the option to take a year-long placement, you can adapt the degree to your career ambitions – choosing a biological or chemical focus. You can also transfer to the MSci route for a specialist year of research-intensive study.

How you learn

All our courses are designed around a set of key principles based on engaging you with the world, collaborating with others, challenging you to think in new ways, and providing you with a supportive environment in which you can thrive.

You’ll be taught by active researchers and scientific experts with a history of working in the pharmaceutical industry. We encourage a hands-on approach, with your learning linked to departmental research themes to make sure you’re learning at the forefront of science.

You’ll also have opportunities to undertake research projects at the end of each year, culminating in a final year 6-week project. This could be a lab-based biochemical or chemistry project, or focus on bioinformatics, big data, computational modelling, systematic reviews, educational development or scientific communication.

You learn through:

Key themes

In your first year, you’ll learn fundamental life sciences before moving onto applied modules such as biochemistry and genetics, using the latest technologies including PCR, genome sequencing, and bioinformatics software. You’ll be trained in organic and physical chemistry and analytical techniques.

In your second year, you’ll study molecular and cellular biochemistry – training in the latest analytical and bioanalytical technologies and undertaking a laboratory project. You’ll get to choose a more chemical or biological focus too.

In your third year, you’ll study applied biochemistry and advanced analytical techniques, with elective choices such as advanced therapeutics and personalised medicine, medical chemistry and drug discovery, neuroscience and neurophysiology, and genetics. You’ll also work with staff to complete an independent research project.

Course support

Throughout your learning journey, you’ll experience a range of dedicated support, such as:

Work placements

You’ll have the opportunity to complete a year-long placement between your second and third year. This gives you valuable work experience to prepare you for your future career and allows you to graduate with an Applied Professional Diploma to add to your CV.

Live projects

You could also return to your placement host and undertake a real-world research project in their labs.