Program Overview

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Biochemistry BSc

The Biochemistry BSc program at the University of Leeds is a three-year full-time course that explores the molecular basis of life and disease. This interdisciplinary subject combines biology and physical sciences to understand how living things work at the atomic level.

Course Overview

Biochemistry aims to understand how genes are encoded in DNA and how cells use this information to produce proteins. The course delves into the structure and function of proteins, how they fold into 3D structures, and how protein misfolding causes devastating diseases. Students will explore the molecular basis of health and disease and how biochemists lead the way in therapeutic development.

Course Highlights

• Experience the cutting edge in a research-active environment with world-class facilities.
• Perform a final-year project at the frontier of modern research.
• Weekly practical classes in the first two years of the degree, with the option to experience working in a research lab in the final year.
• Build transferable skills and employability with skills-based teaching.
• Extensive wellbeing and employability support from dedicated faculty teams.
• The year in industry programme allows students to gain experience working with organisations, developing new skills for their CV.
• Experience life and learning in a different country through the study abroad programme, gaining fresh perspectives and developing skills valued by employers.

Facilities

The School of Molecular and Cellular Biology is an international research hub with outstanding facilities for structural biology, biophysics, cell biology, and imaging. A recent Ł17 million investment by the University and a large grant portfolio from major external funders underpin research-led teaching and allow for final-year projects at the frontier of modern research.

Wellbeing and Support

The University of Leeds features an extensive network of excellent services dedicated to student wellbeing. Support is available throughout the time in higher education, ensuring students have everything needed to succeed.

Accreditation

The BSc Biochemistry (Industrial) variant of this course is accredited by The Royal Society of Biology. Advanced Degree Accreditation by the Society recognises academic excellence in the biosciences and highlights degrees that educate the research and development leaders and innovators of the future.

Course Details and Modules

The list of modules represents typical modules studied and may change from time to time.

Year 1

Compulsory Modules

• Chemistry for Biochemists (10 credits): A concise introduction to modern chemistry.
• Basis of Life (20 credits): Fundamental processes of life, identifying key concepts that underpin biological processes.
• Genes to Proteins (20 credits): Structure and function of proteins and how we study them.
• Introduction to Genetics (10 credits): Essential foundational knowledge in genetics.
• Introductory Skills in the Molecular Biosciences (20 credits): Trained in data collection and experimental techniques.
• Introductory Skills in Biochemistry (20 credits): Explore key concepts through tutorials and lab practicals.

Optional Modules

20 credits from the following:

• Fundamental Organic Chemistry for Biology & Synthesis (10 credits)
• Mathematics for Scientists (10 credits)
• The Diversity of Life (10 credits)
• Introduction to Immunology (10 credits)
• The Microbial World (10 credits)
• Short Introduction to Human Body Systems (10 credits)
• Discovery Module (10 credits)

Year 2

Compulsory Modules

• Enzymes, Metabolism, Health and Disease (20 credits): Metabolism studies how chemical reactions power life.
• The Molecular Cell and Therapeutic Development (20 credits): Biochemical knowledge enhances understanding of cellular processes.
• Omics and Big Data Biology (20 credits): Introduced to omics-based approaches.
• Intermediate Skills in the Molecular Biosciences (20 credits): Develop core laboratory skills.
• Intermediate Skills in Biochemistry (20 credits): Build on foundational laboratory and data analysis skills.

Optional Modules

20 credits from the following:

• Introduction to Drug Design (10 credits)
• Fundamentals of Cell and Cancer Biology (20 credits)
• Human Diseases (10 credits)
• Medical Microbiology (20 credits)
• Medical Immunology (10 credits)
• Discovery Module (10 credits)

Year 3

Compulsory Modules

• Molecular and Cellular Biology Research Project (40 credits): Perform an individual or group research project.
• Advanced Topics in Biochemistry and Structural Biology (20 credits): Learn how a description of the structure and dynamics of biological macromolecules allows understanding and manipulation of their function.
• Advanced Topics in Molecular and Cellular Biology (20 credits): Tackle key cellular architectures, processes, and behaviors from a molecular perspective.
• Advanced Skills in Biochemistry (20 credits): Provided with up-to-date developments, hypotheses, and controversies in biochemistry.

Optional Modules

20 credits from the following:

• Cancer Biology (20 credits)
• Advanced Topics in Microbiology 2 (20 credits)

Learning and Teaching

Teaching is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, and practicals. The approach is student-centered, enabling student engagement through active learning approaches.

Assessment

A variety of assessment methods are used to help students develop a broad range of skills, including practical work, data handling, and problem-solving exercises.

Entry Requirements

• A-level: AAB, including chemistry and another science subject.
• GCSE: Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English.
• Alternative qualifications are considered, including Access to HE Diploma, BTEC, Cambridge Pre-U, International Baccalaureate, and Irish Leaving Certificate.

Fees

• UK: Ł9,790
• International: Ł32,750 (per year)

Career Opportunities

Biochemistry graduates are in demand, with around 90% in full-time employment or engaged in post-graduate study 18 months after graduation. Typical graduate careers include research scientist, postgraduate study, graduate entry degree in medicine/dentistry, science communication, and teaching.

Study Abroad and Work Placements

Students have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad or take a work placement, usually as an extra academic year. This can be in the UK or overseas, providing valuable experience and skills.

Related Courses

• Biological Sciences BSc
• Biological Sciences (Biotechnology with Enterprise) BSc
• Microbiology BSc
• Biochemistry MBiol, BSc
• Biological Sciences (Biotechnology with Enterprise) MBiol, BSc
• Biological Sciences MBiol, BSc
• Microbiology MBiol, BSc