Programme summary for BSc (Hons) Biochemistry
Biochemistry, the study of biology at the molecular level, has seen dramatic growth in its scope and importance in recent years. A knowledge of biochemistry is essential to understanding biology, and the rapid development of areas such as genetic engineering will ensure that biochemistry remains at the forefront of scientific practice.
See what one of our Biochemistry graduates thought of his study in the School of Health, Sport and Bioscience.
About the programme
Biochemistry, the study of biology at the molecular level, has seen dramatic growth in its scope and importance in recent years. Knowledge of biochemistry is essential to understanding biology, and the rapid development of areas such as genetic engineering will ensure that biochemistry remains at the forefront of scientific practice.
2-subject degrees
You can combine this programme with a range of other subjects as part of a 2-subject degree. Popular combinations include Biochemistry with Health Promotion, and Pharmacology with Biochemistry
Programme structure
- Students follow a 4-year sandwich degree pathway or a 3-year full-time pathway. The programme can also be followed part-time.
- At Level 1 essential biochemistry and physiology for biochemistry is introduced in modules on Cellular Biology, Cellular Processes and Human Physiology. Skills for Biosciences provides general background and study skills. The other recommended modules are Human health and Disease and Microbiology
- At Level 2, four modules are essential: Metabolism, Molecular Biology, Molecular Genetics and Practical and Employability skills. Two further complementary modules are chosen from a selection of microbiological and physiological modules.
- The third year of study can be spent away from the University in an agreed work placement.
- The final year (Level 3) has further modules specialising in aspects of Biochemistry. Specialisation is in Medical Biochemistry and Biotechnology.
- In your final year, you do an individual research project (up to one third of final year work), involving original work (normally laboratory-based).
Career opportunities
The qualification opens many opportunities within and outside biochemistry. Destinations of recent graduates include: laboratory-based work in hospitals, research institutes, industrial and pharmaceutical laboratories; research and development consultant; higher degrees in biochemistry; further study in other disciplines; nursing, physiotherapy, dentistry, medicine, pharmacy; or teacher training (eg, via a PGCE programmes at UEL).
Support
The School of Health and Bioscience provides immediate contact with University support systems.
- In your first year, you are allocated a Personal Tutor (a member of staff familiar with your degree). You will see your Tutor at regular intervals to discuss progress and life in general.
- Module leaders and Degree pathway leaders also give support on academic matters, and advice about other specialist help available through the University.
- The School also has a Help Desk to provide administrative assistance and advise how to get the right help.
- Internet homepages are used by many staff to support their teaching and your learning.
- Lecture and practical files, quizzes, mark summaries and much more is now available for several modules via UELPlus Online Programme links.
Throughout the programme you will find a number of scheduled support activities devoted to specific aspects e.g. how to write your project report, or more general aspects such as careers.
Support for students on a University level includes:
- Libraries and Learning Resource Centres
- Childcare for students with children aged 21/2 years to 5 years
- Careers advice and information
- Counselling and Advice for practical problems
- Health Centre with a nurse regularly on duty
- Language tuition
- Dyslexia support
- Accommodation
Admission
- 240 UCAS tariff points or equivalent
We also accept AVCE, passing a minimum of 6 modules, Advanced GNVQ and BTec National Diploma. All students should also have English and Maths GCSE (A-C grade) or be able to offer alternative equivalent qualifications (Level 2 Key Skills in Numeracy and Communications).
Applicants with overseas or alternative qualifications are considered on an individual basis. If your first language is not English your ability to understand, write and speak English must be good enough to allow you to cope with your studies. You must have one of the following:
- English GCSE grade C or above
- Level 2 Key Skills in Communications
- A minimum score of 6.0 on IELTS
- the Cambridge Proficiency Certificate (C), the Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (B)
- TOEFL (550 paper-based test or 213 computer-based test.)
The University welcomes applications from mature students, even if you do not have the standard entry requirements. Many of our students are over 21 when they join the University and their extra experience is a valuable asset. We are happy to consider alternative qualifications or work experience as evidence of suitability to study for a degree. To discuss your situation or to arrange an interview, please contact the Admissions Office (+44 (0)20 8223 4489/4081) or email Elizabeth Westhead
Key facts
You can start many programmes in either September or February and applications are simple to make. Click below to:
Apply online Biochemistry (BSc (Hons))
