Essentially, as a biochemist, you study the fundamental processes of life. You’ll merge scientific techniques from chemistry and biology to seek answers to questions about life, health, disease, the natural environment, materials, and compounds. You’ll study the science behind living cells, tissues, organs and organisms. You’ll learn the biochemical processes that underpin the very latest discoveries. Explore how biochemistry affects the quality of people’s lives. You’ll look at the creation of new drugs and understand processes ranging from the design of medical treatments to the manufacture of new biomaterials.
In your first year, you will study with other bioscience students together to obtain an initial grounding in chemistry, molecular biology and genetics, cell and microbiology and human physiology with pharmacology. At the same time all bioscience students will study biochemistry with you together. You will use your theory to build on your practical skills in a well-equipped, modern laboratory.
In your second year, you will delve even deeper into these topic areas, in addition to further chemistry and biochemistry topics.
Work placement/study abroad option: Between your second and final year, you’ll have the option to study abroad or do a work placement for up to a year. Not only will this give you an amazing experience to talk about but will also give your CV a boost. If you’d rather go straight to your final year, that’s absolutely fine too.
In your final year you’ll learn about topics such as molecular medicine, cellular development, and off course advanced biochemistry. If you find that you have grown to love a certain topic you can choose to do your major research project in this area.
This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology.
On average, you have 20 hours of contact time per week, with lectures and workshops taking up about 6-10 hours per week, while the remaining time is devoted to practical work.
Throughout your degree, you will be assessed in a variety of ways. This will include exams, literature reviews, portfolios, lab reports, practicals and presentations. Coursework assessments are generally 50-100% per module.