BSc Biochemistry (with a Year in Industry)

The degree is a four-year programme that consists of an in-depth introduction to fundamental biochemical science in the first year, followed by a more flexible year 2 that allows you to tailor your course to chemistry, biology or a balance of both.

You’ll spend you third year in employment or on a placement with an external company, giving you the chance to learn on the job and gain valuable experience before you enter the world of work.

In the final year, you’ll enhance your knowledge of biochemistry as a modern research discipline and have the option to undertake an individual research project that will hone your expertise in an area that takes your interest.

The first year is designed to give you a grounding in fundamental biochemistry, incorporating compulsory modules such as: Fundamentals of Molecular Biology and Genetics; Fundamentals of Cell Biology and Biochemistry; Chemistry of Carbon-Based Compounds; Bonding, Structure and Periodicity; Practical and Quantitative Skills in Chemistry; and Physical and Analytical Methods in the Biomolecular Sciences.

Your second year will build upon the skills gained in year one with further compulsory modules (Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biophysical Chemistry and Medicinal Chemistry), while allowing you to begin focusing your attention on biology, chemistry or both through options including: Cell Biology, Genetics, Organic Chemistry and Inorganic Chemistry.

The third year is when you take your ‘Year in Industry’. We’ll help you to find a placement with a biochemical company and you’ll spend an entire year (often paid) developing your knowledge of the subject, but also acquiring new understanding about the industry and life as a graduate.

The final year will introduce you to contemporary topics in biochemistry, culminating in an individual research project that will bring together everything you’ve learnt. There are only a few compulsory modules at this stage – Molecular Enzymology in Biology and Medicine; Protein Structure, Chemistry and Engineering; Research Project or Biology Research Skills – and a very wide range of optional modules to help you really tailor your studies at the end of the degree.

These include Microbial Biotechnology; Genomes, Genes and Genomics; Infection and Immunity; Advanced Topics in Organic Chemistry; Inorganic Compounds: Structure and Function; Organic compounds: Structure and Properties; and Microbiology.