Introduction to the BSc (Hons) Biochemistry with Foundation Year Program

The BSc (Hons) Biochemistry with Foundation Year program is designed for students who do not meet the traditional entry requirements for the BSc (Hons) Biochemistry course. This integrated foundation degree provides a gateway to the BSc course, supporting students in their transition to university learning.

Program Overview

• The foundation year acts as a launch pad, developing robust study skills, increasing confidence in tackling intricate problems, and cultivating independent learning.
• Upon successful completion of the foundation year, students progress onto the BSc (Hons) Biochemistry course.
• The program focuses on the chemistry of life, covering diseases, drug development, biological tools, and genetically modified products, with an emphasis on practical skills and industry-standard equipment in state-of-the-art labs, ensuring students become confident, work-ready graduates, with opportunities to apply their skills in real-world settings through placements and research projects.

Course Structure

• Year One: Foundation year, focusing on core concepts across different areas of biology, including applied biology, data handling and analysis, introductory science for biologists, foundation biology, and professional practice and skills.
• Year Two to Four: Progression onto the BSc (Hons) Biochemistry course, covering modules such as introduction to biochemistry, living systems, molecular principles for biochemistry, introduction to pharmacology, practical techniques for biology, genetics and immunology, advanced biochemistry, molecular bioscience in practice, metabolism and its control, biomolecular structure and function, clinical biochemistry, and molecular genetics of human diseases.

Teaching and Learning

• Students learn through a mix of lectures, seminars, practical sessions, and workshops, with substantial amounts of practical work in addition to lectures.
• Tutorial sessions provide regular meetings with personal tutors and course members to discuss topics and receive support.
• The course incorporates research-informed teaching, with academics who are actively involved in research and can provide cutting-edge knowledge in their fields.

Assessment

• Assessment types include coursework, practical assessments, exams, and tests, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of students' knowledge and skills.
• The use of various assessment methods allows students to demonstrate their abilities in different ways, catering to individual strengths and learning styles.

Entry Requirements

• UK Students: Standard offer of 72 UCAS Tariff points from three A-levels or equivalent, with contextual offers available for students from certain backgrounds.
• International Students: Academic entry requirements of 72 UCAS Tariff points from three A-levels or equivalent, with English language requirements also applying.

Fees and Funding

• UK Students: Ł9,790 per year, with reduced fees for placement years or years abroad.
• International Students: Ł17,950 per year, with options for scholarships and reduced fees for placement years or years abroad.
• Additional costs may include textbooks, printing and photocopying, placements, field trips, and lab lockers.

Careers and Employability

• The course provides excellent placement opportunities, with students having completed placements at leading organizations in roles such as associate practitioner, protein engineer, and research and development intern.
• Graduates are well-placed to pursue entry-level posts in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, with options for further study, including Masters-level courses and MPhil and PhD research degrees.
• The Employability Promise offers personalized support, one-on-one coaching, and industry-specific advice to enhance students' career prospects.

Campus and Facilities

• The program is based at the Clifton Campus, with access to state-of-the-art facilities, including the Interdisciplinary Science and Technology Centre (ISTeC) and the Rosalind Franklin building.
• The campus offers a range of amenities, including a sports hub, student union, and accommodation options, providing a supportive and engaging learning environment.

Related Courses

• Biochemistry BSc (Hons)
• Biomedical Science BSc (Hons)
• Biological Sciences BSc (Hons)
• Pharmacology BSc (Hons)
• Microbiology BSc (Hons)

Conclusion

The BSc (Hons) Biochemistry with Foundation Year program at Nottingham Trent University offers a comprehensive and supportive pathway for students to achieve their academic and professional goals in biochemistry. With its integrated foundation year, emphasis on practical skills, and research-informed teaching, this course provides a solid foundation for a successful career in the biosciences.

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What you’ll study

You’ll develop an understanding of what is happening inside the cells of living organisms and how this has changed through the evolutionary process. With a focus on understanding the data, you’ll look at D / R synthesis, proteins and genetics and learn how these can unlock the diagnosis of biochemical disorders and human diseases. Understanding, analysing and drawing meaning from data is becoming increasingly important in the industry. We’ve recently redeveloped this course to include bioinformatics skills across all years of your course. If you are really interested in this growing area of biochemistry, then you can also immerse yourself further by focusing on bioinformatics for your final year research project.

As the course is highly practical, you’ll get experience in cutting-edge molecular biology techniques such as D/R technology, protein analysis, diagnostics, as well as bioinformatics. You will also gain key biochemical skills such as biochemical catalysis, protein purification and enzyme kinetics.

Year One

Year Two

Year Three

Final year

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Applied Biology

Using case studies, you’ll consider the science and ethical considerations in bioscience and medical fields, research and therapeutics as well as topical issues in environmental science. In addition to exploring a variety of topics in health and disease such as infectious diseases inherited and non-inheritable disorders, you will touch on therapeutic approaches.

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Data Handling and Analysis

This module will use group work and problem-based learning to give you a strong base of mathematical skills can be applied in biosciences. You’ll learn concepts such as rearranging equations, concentration calculations, metric prefixes, probabilities and exponentials through the lens of real-world biology labs and data analysis of disease scenarios.

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Introductory Science for Biologists

This module focuses on the key scientific principles of physics and chemistry that are vital to Bioscientists. In the physics part of the module you’ll be introduced to topics such as wave motion, vibration and methods of heat transfer. The Chemistry part of the module covers some inorganic, organic and physical chemistry, providing biochemical foundation knowledge.

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Foundation Biology

You’ll be introduced to core concepts across different areas of biology to ensure you have a broad core biology knowledge. Practical classes in our labs put the theory you’ve learned into context and you’ll also learn good laboratory practice, basic laboratory skills and problem-solving.

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Professional Practice and Skills

Bioscientists require an understanding, and in many cases experience, of working in a laboratory environment. This module give you a chance to evidence your practical skills as well as drawing on topics and techniques used in other modules. You’ll work on a group project that will give you experience of working on all elements of a project e.g. research , design, development, testing, evaluation and presentation.

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Introduction to Biochemistry

Study the key aspects of macromolecules, cell structure and function, and interrelationships in both practical and theoretical contexts.

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Living Systems

Introduces levels of biological organisation from molecules to cells and ecosystems, providing a platform of knowledge and skills upon which other modules are developed.

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Molecular Principles for Biochemistry

This module will teach you the fundamental concepts of organic, physical, analytical and biological chemistry as applied to the biochemistry process.

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Introduction to Pharmacology

Considers the principles of how drugs work, including factors that affect the magnitude of the response to drugs, specificity of drug action, drug interactions and side effects of drugs.

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Practical Techniques for Biology

Considers the principles of experimental design, data collection and analysis, including techniques in centrifugation, chromatography, electrophoresis, microscopy and radiobiology.

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Genetics and Immunology

Develops genetic concepts and introduces basic aspects of the immune system, including the molecules, cells and interactions involved.

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Advanced Biochemistry

Study the concepts of current biochemical techniques and their practical applications in science.

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Molecular Bioscience in Practice

In this module, you’ll get an overview of the immune response including the structure of antibodies, the development of an antibody response and the production of polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies. You’ll explore the antibody as a molecular probe and develop antibody-based techniques and assays.

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Metabolism and its Control

Explore the central pathways of oxidative catabolism and anabolism of carbohydrates and fats in eukaryotic cells. You’ll also cover the biochemical basis of cellular signal transduction.

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Biomolecular Structure and Function

Explore the functions of polymerases, binding proteins, helicases, ligases, topoisomerases and chromosomes in D replication.

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Clinical Biochemistry

Study a variety of disorders and learn about their clinical symptoms, biochemical and molecular defects, detection, diagnosis and treatment.

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Optional module - choose one:

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Chemotherapy of Cancer and Infections

Explore the concept of selective toxicity as applicable to the treatment of cancer and infections. You’ll also consider the action of anti-cancer, anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal drugs.

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Molecular Genetics of Human Diseases

You will develop knowledge and understanding of gene therapy.

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Global Challenges in Health and Aging

An in-depth look at the latest developments in the biochemistry field and their effects in current global issues.

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Cell Signalling and Cancer

A range of exciting and up-to-date topics on cell proliferation and cell death. The cell cycle, the cytoskeleton and signal transduction will be presented, and we will discuss their implication in carcinogenesis.

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Applied Bioinformatics

Use cutting-edge bioinformatics methods to understand and identify the role that gene and protein biomarkers play in disease. Analyse real clinical data and model various scenarios that predict the clinical impact of the disease.

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Research Project (40 credit points)

You have the option of either completing a 40 credit point project / dissertation

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Choose one from two options:

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Comparative Developmental and Evolutionary Genetics

Introduction to developmental biology and concepts in speciation and evolution.

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Toxicology

Explore the concepts and principles that underpin toxicology and study individual toxins.

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How you’re taught

You will typically study six modules in Year One and Two. Each module involves substantial amounts of practical work, in addition to around 20 one-hour lectures. In your final year, you’ll study five modules and a research project. You will also take part in regular seminars and tutorials to support you with your studies.

Community and support

With support from your lecturers, personal tutors and technical staff, you can be sure we'll be here for you during your studies. Alongside your lectures and lab classes, you’ll also have tutorial sessions. These are a chance to regularly meet in small groups with your personal tutor and members of your course to discuss the topics you are studying.

Got any feedback on your course? You’ll have lots of opportunities to discuss your course, for example in your tutorial sessions, with your course leader and course reps and you even have the chance to feedback on every module you study with an end of module survey.  We love to hear your feedback and how we can make improvements.  Following your feedback, we have recently added Professional Skills modules which are specific to the area of biosciences you are studying. We’ve also increased our support for your coursework assignments too, through drop-in sessions accessible when you need them most.

There’s support from your peers too. Our mentoring schemes give you support from other students on your course. Whether you need help with your studies or university life in general, they’ve been there and can give you a students’ perspective. Find out more about the support you’ll receive at NTU.

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Research informed teaching

Our research is tackling real-world issues – and the people working on this research will be teaching you. It also informs the subjects you’ll be studying with us so you can be sure your knowledge will be cutting-edge in your field. In the last Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021) - the UK's system for assessing the quality and impact of research in universities - we’re proud that 99% of NTU’s Allied Health Professions, Dentistry, Nursing and Pharmacy submission was assessed to be world-leading or internationally excellent.

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Hands-on learning

The course is very practical and you’ll be spending lots of time in our industry-standard laboratories. This is because we believe the amount of time you spend getting hands-on experience in a laboratory is very important to prepare you for the world of work.

You’ll get to use our industry-standard equipment, such as our nucleic acid and protein analysis systems, right from the very start of your course. You’ll get to know how a professional lab works and how to follow laboratory processes and protocols used in industry – all valuable skills to have before you graduate.

We have a focus on using digital skills to support you in your practice sessions. For example, you might do an online simulation of the experiment you are going to perform in the lab. This will get you familiar with the techniques and protocols so you can be confident and really make the most of your time in our labs.

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Learn a new language

Alongside your study, you also have the opportunity to learn a new language. The University Language Programme (ULP) is available to all students and gives you the option of learning a totally new language or improving the skills you already have. Find out more about the ULP.

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Careers and employability

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Your career development

Students on this course will be well placed to pursue entry level posts in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry and the majority of biological science-related disciplines.

Our recent graduates have secured roles at companies including:

ADC Biotechnology

Eurofins

Nottingham City Hospital

Nova Laboratory

Severn Trent Services

They have gone into a wide variety of job roles including:

Sample Registration Technician

Medical Laboratory Assistant

Biochemist

Laboratory Technician

You will also have the option to undertake further study after you graduate. You could undertake one of our Masters-level courses or MPhil and PhD research degrees.

Our graduate salaries range from £16,000 - £30,000 per year.

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Excellent placement opportunities

NTU is one of the most employment-focused universities. Increasingly, employers want to recruit graduates who have real-world work experience. That’s why all of our courses, across every subject area, offer you a work experience opportunity. Our experts help build and support your future with a range of career programmes and events.

On this course, after your second year, you will have the opportunity to take a year's work placement (sandwich placement). This will give you the chance to gain vital experience and put your knowledge into practice. You're also twice as likely to secure a graduate job within six months if you take a work placement.

Our recent students have taken placements across a wide range of companies including the NHS, National Institute of Medical Research and The Health Protection Agency. They secured varied roles such as Associate Practitioner, Research and Development Intern and Laboratory Classroom Assistant.

You'll be supported and assessed throughout your placement year and will write a reflective report and diary at the end of your placement. When you successfully complete your placement, you will be eligible to receive an additional award of a Diploma in Professional Practice.

Find out more about work placements.

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NTU Enterprise

You'll also have the opportunity to turn your ideas into a viable business with help from NTU Enterprise, NTU's purpose-built Centre for Entrepreneurship and Enterprise, a support centre to help students create, develop and grow their own businesses.

Nottingham Trent University

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Overview:

Nottingham Trent University (NTU) is a public university located in Nottingham, England. It is known for its strong focus on employability, student experience, and research. NTU has been recognized as "University of the Year" five times and is ranked first in the UK for employability by Uni Compare.

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Services Offered:

NTU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Employability and Careers:

NTU has a strong focus on employability, with a Graduate Promise program and worldwide work placements.

Accommodation:

NTU provides a variety of accommodation options for students, including on-campus and off-campus housing.

Library:

NTU has a modern and well-equipped library with extensive resources for students.

StudentHub:

A platform for students to access information and services, including academic support, wellbeing resources, and student events.

NOW:

A platform for students to access online learning resources and support.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

NTU offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience with a range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, including:

Sports:

NTU has a strong sports program and is ranked in the top ten universities for sport in the UK.

Arts and Culture:

NTU has a thriving arts and culture scene, with a dedicated arts center and numerous events throughout the year.

Student Societies:

NTU has a wide range of student societies and clubs, catering to various interests.

Campus Events:

NTU hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including open days, lectures, and performances.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Excellent Employability:

NTU is ranked first in the UK for employability, with a strong focus on preparing students for the workforce.

Outstanding Student Experience:

NTU provides a vibrant and supportive campus environment with a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved.

High-Quality Research:

NTU is a research-intensive university with a strong focus on innovation and impact.

Award-Winning University:

NTU has been recognized with numerous awards, including "University of the Year" five times.

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Academic Programs:

NTU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

Business and Management:

NTU is known for its strong business school, offering programs in areas such as accounting, finance, and marketing.

Art and Design:

NTU has a renowned art and design school, offering programs in areas such as fashion, graphic design, and photography.

Science and Technology:

NTU offers programs in areas such as computer science, engineering, and life sciences.

Law:

NTU has a strong law school, offering programs in areas such as criminal law, commercial law, and human rights law.

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Other:

NTU is committed to sustainability and has been recognized as the second most sustainable university in the world by the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings. NTU also has a strong focus on inclusivity and diversity, with a commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all students.