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Biochemistry BSc

Study of the chemical processes that underpin life, exploring how molecules, enzymes, and metabolic pathways control biological systems.

YOUR PERSONALITY MIGHT BE:

Scientific minded

Detail-oriented

Analytical thinker

Persistent problem-solver

POPULAR CAREER FIELDS

Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology

Research & Academia

Healthcare & Public Health

Government & Public Sector

Is this for you?

Biochemistry BSc

Is this for you?

WHAT IS IT?

Study of the chemical processes that underpin life, exploring how molecules, enzymes, and metabolic pathways control biological systems.

CAREER OPTIONS

CURRENT APPRENTICESHIPS, INTERNSHIPS & WORKPLACES

Internships
Internships
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships
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Uni Open Days
A biochemist with a beaker and pipette

FIND OUT MORE

About the Course

  • What is a Biochemistry degree?

    Biochemistry sits at the intersection of biology and chemistry, focusing on the molecular basis of life.


    You’ll study proteins, enzymes, DNA, metabolism, and cell signalling, learning how chemical reactions drive biological function and disease.


    The degree is highly analytical and laboratory-focused, ideal for students interested in medical research, biotechnology, or pharmaceutical science.


    Why study Biochemistry?


    If you’re interested in how biology works at a molecular level, Biochemistry provides deep scientific understanding.


    It helps you understand:

    • How enzymes catalyse life’s reactions

    • How DNA, RNA, and proteins function

    • Metabolic pathways and energy transfer

    • Molecular causes of disease

    • Drug discovery and biotechnology


  • Most degrees cover topics such as:


    • Protein structure and enzyme kinetics

    • Metabolism and bioenergetics

    • Molecular biology and genetics

    • Cell signalling and regulation

    • Structural biology and bioinformatics

    • Laboratory techniques and research methods

  • Advanced laboratory and analytical skills – enabling precise biochemical experimentation.


    Quantitative and data analysis skills – helping you interpret complex results.


    Molecular-level understanding of biology – supporting medical and biotech applications.


    Scientific communication – preparing you to present detailed technical information.


    Independent research capability – equipping you for postgraduate study or industry roles.

  • A-levels or equivalent including Chemistry and Biology. Some universities may accept Chemistry plus one other Science (Maths or Physics). Chemistry is essential, Biology strongly recommended.

    • Demonstrate scientific curiosity by referencing topics such as enzymes, microbes, metabolism, genetics, or disease that genuinely interest you.

    • Highlight practical experience such as laboratory work, science projects, or coursework that developed experimental or analytical skills.

    • Show analytical thinking by explaining how you enjoy problem-solving, data interpretation, or applying theory to real-world biological questions.

    • Connect your interests to future goals, whether research, healthcare, biotechnology, or further scientific study.


    • The Gene: An Intimate History – Siddhartha Mukherjee
      A compelling narrative about genes, heredity, and molecular biology that blends science with human stories.

    • The Invisible Kingdom – Siddhartha Mukherjee
      A deep exploration of the immune system and the complex biology behind health and disease (very relevant to microbiology).

    • Molecules: A Very Short Introduction – Philip Ball
      A clear, engaging intro to molecular science that bridges chemistry and biology.

    • I Contain Multitudes – Ed Yong
      A fascinating look at the microbial world and how microbes shape life, health, and ecosystems.

    • Your Inner Fish – Neil Shubin
      A brilliant evolutionary perspective on how our anatomy and biochemistry reflect life’s deep history.

    • Read beyond the syllabus by exploring popular science books or articles related to molecular biology, microbiology, or biochemistry.

    • Gain laboratory exposure through school labs, summer schools, volunteering, or online practical simulations.

    • Explore course pathways to see whether you prefer clinical, environmental, industrial, or research-focused routes.

    • Stay informed about developments in genetics, disease research, biotechnology, and life sciences careers.

    • Research - Biochemist, research scientist, laboratory researcher

    • Pharmaceutical - Pharmaceutical scientist, drug development scientist, formulation scientist

    • Biotechnology - Biotechnologist, bioprocess engineer, industrial biochemist

    • Clinical Biochemistry - Clinical biochemist, medical laboratory scientist, pathology specialist

    • Quality Control - Quality control analyst, QC scientist, analytical chemist

    • Laboratory Work - Laboratory technician, biomedical scientist, senior scientist

    • Medical Research - Medical researcher, clinical researcher, translational researcher

    • Teaching - Science teacher, biology teacher, university lecturer

    • Forensic Science - Forensic scientist, forensic analyst, crime lab technician

    • Regulatory Affairs - Regulatory affairs officer, pharmaceutical compliance specialist

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