Program start date | Application deadline |
2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Biochemistry with Foundation Year
Overview
Biochemistry has become the foundation for understanding all biological processes. This pathway is recommended if you want to study the full honours degree, but don’t meet the direct entry requirements. If you successfully complete and pass the foundation year, you will automatically progress on to the full BSc (Hons) Biochemistry honours degree, where you will continue to build specialised knowledge of the chemical processes which underpin all living organisms.
Course Details
Attendance
- Full-time
- With placement
- Part-time
Course Duration
- Four year
- Five year
Next Enrolment
- September 2025
Introduction
Biochemistry is the study of chemical processes within biological cells. It is dedicated to the study of chemical processes within biological cells. Our full honours biochemistry degree is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, which means it contains a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepares graduates to address the needs of employers.
Course Accreditations
- Access to Industry: Chemical Sciences placements with Kidscan
This is for You If...
- You are returning to education or seeking to develop your career in a new direction
- You have a non-scientific background and want to pursue a career in science
- You haven't got the entry requirements to go straight on to the main degree course
Course Structure
Foundation Year
- Chemical Principles
- Scientific Methods
- Data Handling
- Professional Communications
- Biological Principles
- Science for Health
Year One
- Biological Chemistry
- Genetics
- Introduction to Organic Chemistry
- Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Skills
- Introductory Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
Year Two
- Clinical and Molecular Genetics
- Fundamentals of Biochemistry
- Chemical and Biochemical Research Skills
- Human Physiology
- Genomics and Proteomics
- Medical Biochemistry
Year Three
- Biochemistry of Drugs and Disease
- Current Topics in Biochemistry
- Final Year Project and Professional Skills
- Science and Industry BSc Hons
- Cancer: Bench to Bedside
- Biotechnology
- Clinical Immunology
Teaching and Assessment
Teaching
- Extended projects
- Site visits
- Workshops
- Seminars
- Laboratory activities
- Group work
Assessment
- Research projects
- Laboratory reports
- Essays
- Data analysis
- Presentations
- Literature reviews
- Examinations
Facilities
- The Bodmer Lab: an advanced, integrated teaching laboratory
Industry Collaboration and Research
- Many of our academics and technicians who support your course also deliver collaborative, interdisciplinary, high-impact work in a range of bioscience issues and challenges.
Employment and Stats
Employment
- With training allowing you to develop your own personal skill set in laboratory science, theoretical science and softer skills ready for the working world, this programme will enhance your employability and personal development, allowing you to enter the working world with an enhanced and divergent skill set.
Further Study
- You might find you want to learn more about biosciences. Building on our scientific expertise, we offer a range of postgraduate courses that can take your interests and career opportunities further.
Requirements
International Applicants
- This course isn’t suitable for international students.
Applicant Profile
- We are looking for applicants with a strong interest in both the chemical and biological sciences, and a desire to operate in a cutting-edge research field.
English Language Requirements
- All of our courses are taught and assessed in English. If English is not your first language, you must meet our minimum English language entry requirements. An IELTS score of 6.0 (no element below 5.5) is proof of this, and we also accept a range of equivalent qualifications.
Standard Entry Requirements
- UCAS tariff points: 64 points
- A levels: 64 points
- BTEC National Diploma: MPP
- T Level: Pass grade in T Level Science
- Access to Higher Education: 64 points
- GCSE: English language and mathematics at grade C/4 or above
Alternative Entry Requirements
- Salford Alternative Entry Scheme (SAES)
Tuition Fees
- Full-time home: £8,505 for Foundation Year and £9,535 for subsequent years
- Part-time: part-time fees will be calculated on a pro rata basis
Additional Costs
- All field trips are funded by the school but you may need to consider additional costs such as food and spending money.
- International field trips that are part of core modules are also funded by the school but you will need to pay towards international field trips that are part of optional modules (although these are subsidised by the school) and you will be made aware of these costs before selecting the module.
- You should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This program combines a foundation year with the full BSc (Hons) in Biochemistry, offering comprehensive education in both chemical and biological principles.
Foundation Year:
Designed for those requiring additional foundational knowledge in chemistry and biology before progressing to the honours degree.
BSc (Hons) Biochemistry:
Focuses on the chemical processes underpinning life, covering topics like genetics, disease mechanisms, drug development, and nanotechnology.
Objectives:
- Equip students with a solid foundation in both chemistry and biology.
- Develop specialized knowledge in biochemistry.
- Foster strong laboratory and research skills.
- Prepare graduates for diverse careers in research and industry.
Key Features:
- Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology.
- Emphasis on practical work in advanced laboratory facilities.
- Opportunities for industry placements or research projects.
- Access to expert faculty and specialized research facilities.
Outline:
Foundation Year:
Introduces key principles in chemistry, biology, data analysis, and scientific communication.
BSc (Hons) Years 1 & 2:
Covers fundamental biochemistry concepts like biological chemistry, genetics, cell biology, molecular biology, and physiology.
Year 3:
Offers specialized modules focusing on topics such as clinical and molecular genetics, cancer biology, drug design, genomics, and immunology.
Final Year:
Includes a research project and professional skills development alongside further specialization in chosen areas like biotechnology, science and industry, or cancer research.
Assessment:
Assessment methods include:
- Research projects
- Laboratory reports
- Essays
- Data analysis
- Presentations
- Literature reviews
- Examinations
Teaching:
- Blend of lectures, seminars, group work, workshops, laboratory activities, and site visits.
- Modern and well-equipped laboratories for hands-on learning.
- Research-active faculty with extensive industry experience.
Careers:
Potential careers include:
- Biomedical scientist
- Clinical research associate
- Biotechnologist
- Research scientist
- Pharmaceutical scientist
- Toxicologist
- Forensic scientist
- Teacher or lecturer The program also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate studies and research careers in biomedicine and bioscience.
Other:
- Emphasis on the latest research developments and cutting-edge techniques.
- Opportunities to engage in industry collaborations.
- Supportive learning environment with access to academic and student support services.
University of Salford: A Summary
Overview:
The University of Salford is a public university located in Salford, Greater Manchester, England. It is known for its strong focus on practical learning and its close ties to industry. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
The university provides a vibrant campus experience with a range of facilities and activities for students. These include:
Accommodation:
The university offers a variety of accommodation options, including on-campus residences and private apartments.Sports Centre:
Students can stay active and healthy by joining the university's sports centre, which offers a wide range of activities.Clubs and Societies:
Students can join a variety of clubs and societies to meet new people and pursue their interests.Library:
The university library provides students with access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, and online databases.Cafe and Dining:
The campus has several cafes and dining options for students to enjoy.Key Reasons to Study There:
Practical Learning:
The university emphasizes practical learning, with many programs incorporating hands-on experience and industry placements.Industry Connections:
The university has strong ties to industry, providing students with opportunities for internships, placements, and networking.Location:
The university is located in Salford, a vibrant city with easy access to Manchester city centre.Modern Facilities:
The university has invested in modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art sports centre and a new library.Other:
The university offers a variety of student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health support. It also has a strong commitment to research, with a focus on areas such as energy, healthcare, and technology.
Entry Requirements
UK and EU Students:
- GCSEs: English Language and Mathematics at grade C/4 or above.
- A-Levels: 64 UCAS Tariff Points.
- BTEC National Diploma: Merit, Merit, Pass.
- Access to Higher Education: 64 UCAS Tariff Points.
- Scottish Highers: 64 points from Higher Level.
- Irish Leaving Certificate: 64 points from Higher Level.
- European Baccalaureate: Completion of two full years of study and an awarded qualification.
SAES (Salford Alternative Entry Scheme):
- Students who do not meet the stated entry criteria but demonstrate their ability to pursue the course successfully are encouraged to apply.
- Applications will be assessed through a review of prior learning or a formal test.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- IELTS: 6.0 overall with no element below 5.5.
- Other equivalent qualifications are also accepted.
Note:
The University also has a range of pathways that can help students gain entry on to their degree courses, even if they do not meet the standard entry requirements.