Biochemistry BSc

Sabrina O'Neil
Oct 13
4 min read

Biochemistry is the study of the chemical processes that take place within and around living organisms. It explores how molecules such as proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids interact to sustain life, and how these processes can be altered by disease or harnessed in biotechnology.

A Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biochemistry combines biology and chemistry to explain the molecular basis of life. Students learn how cells use energy, how genes are expressed, how enzymes function, and how these processes underpin human health, agriculture, and industry.

Why Study Biochemistry?

Students choose Biochemistry for a variety of reasons:

An interest in understanding how life works at a molecular and cellular level.

A desire to contribute to advances in medicine, pharmaceuticals, genetics, and biotechnology.
Development of practical laboratory and analytical skills that are highly valued across scientific careers.
Opportunities to participate in research and gain hands-on experience with modern laboratory techniques.
A flexible and respected degree that can lead to careers in research, healthcare, industry, or further study.

Course Duration and Structure

In the UK, a BSc in Biochemistry normally takes three years of full-time study. Many universities also offer a four-year course with an industrial placement, a year abroad, or an integrated master’s degree (MSci) that includes advanced research training.

A typical course structure might include:

Year 1: Fundamental modules in biology, chemistry, and biochemistry, including cell biology, molecular biology, and organic chemistry, alongside laboratory and data-handling skills.

Year 2: Core topics such as metabolism, enzymology, molecular genetics, and structural biology, with optional modules in immunology, pharmacology, or bioinformatics.

Year 3: Advanced biochemistry and specialist options, plus an independent research project or dissertation often conducted in a university laboratory.

Practical laboratory work forms a major part of the course, helping students to develop essential experimental, analytical, and technical skills.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements differ by institution, but students typically need one of the following:

A Levels: Including Chemistry and at least one other science subject, such as Biology, Physics, or Mathematics.
BTEC: A relevant Extended Diploma in Applied Science or a closely related subject, often with chemistry-related content.
International Baccalaureate (IB): Including Higher Level Chemistry and another science subject.
Other qualifications: Equivalent international or foundation programmes in science.
English language proficiency: For applicants whose first language is not English.

Teaching and Assessment

Teaching on a Biochemistry degree combines lectures, small-group tutorials, and extensive laboratory work. Students are encouraged to develop both theoretical understanding and practical research skills.

Assessment methods typically include:

Written examinations
Laboratory reports and practical assessments
Coursework and essays
Oral presentations and group projects
A final-year independent research project or dissertation

Some courses also assess data analysis, experimental design, and literature reviews as part of the research component.

Skills You Will Develop

A Biochemistry degree provides a strong combination of scientific, technical, and transferable skills, including:

A deep understanding of molecular and cellular processes in living organisms.
Practical laboratory skills, including experimental design, chemical analysis, and data interpretation.
Proficiency in biochemistry-related software, statistical tools, and bioinformatics.
Critical thinking, problem-solving, and hypothesis testing.
Scientific writing, data presentation, and communication.
Time management, teamwork, and project planning.
These skills are applicable in a wide range of professional and research environments.

Career Prospects

Biochemistry graduates are well prepared for careers in science, healthcare, and industry. Some choose to continue into postgraduate study, while others move directly into employment in technical or research-based roles.

Potential career paths include:

Research in universities, hospitals, or pharmaceutical companies
Biotechnology and biopharmaceutical industries
Healthcare and clinical laboratory work
Food science, agriculture, and environmental testing
Data analysis, bioinformatics, and computational biology
Science communication, teaching, and policy
Further study in medicine, dentistry, or related postgraduate degrees
Employers value Biochemistry graduates for their analytical ability, laboratory experience, and problem-solving approach.

Tips for Prospective Students

Strengthen your understanding of chemistry and biology before beginning the course.

Gain early experience in a laboratory environment if possible.
Learn basic data analysis and computer skills, including familiarity with spreadsheets and statistics.
Stay informed about current developments in biochemistry through journals and science news.
Practise good time management, as laboratory and coursework demands can be intensive.
Engage with academic societies or research opportunities to enhance your scientific experience.

Course Variations

Universities may offer several related or specialised programmes, including:

Biochemistry (General): Covering all major areas of the subject.
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry: Focusing on genetics, protein structure, and molecular mechanisms.
Biomedical or Medical Biochemistry: Concentrating on human health, disease, and pharmaceutical applications.
Biochemistry with Biotechnology: Combining molecular science with industrial and applied contexts.
MSci Biochemistry: A four-year integrated master’s course that includes extended research.