Program Overview

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Program Overview

The BSc Hons Biochemistry & Microbiology program at the University of Strathclyde is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of biological systems at the molecular level. The program covers the study of biochemistry and microbiology, including the molecular basis of life, the role of microorganisms in disease, and the application of biochemistry and microbiology in various fields.

Key Facts

• UCAS Code: CC75
• Accreditation: Royal Society of Biology
• Ranked: Top 5 for Biological Sciences (Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024)
• Flexible degree: Opportunity to change to other Biomolecular Science courses throughout the studies

Study with Us

The program allows students to study the smallest living organisms, develop an understanding of the molecular basis of life, and explore the application of biochemistry and microbiology in various fields. The courses are underpinned by a strong research base, links with industry, the NHS, and international partners.

Why this Course?

Biochemistry is the study of biological systems at the molecular level, while microbiology is the study of microorganisms, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, algae, and protozoa. The program provides students with the opportunity to choose specific degree combinations, allowing them to specialize in areas such as neuroscience, cardiovascular research, immunopharmacology, and drug research.

What You'll Study

The program covers a range of topics, including:

• Cells and their molecules
• Organisms and diseases
• Bio-organic chemistry
• Introduction to immunology, biochemistry, microbiology, and pharmacology
• Biomedical biochemistry and microbiology
• Advanced biochemistry and microbiology
• Optional modules, such as clinical biochemistry and clinical microbiology

Years 1 & 2

In the first two years, students study the same modules, allowing them to defer their ultimate choice of degree until the end of Year 2. The modules include:

• Being a Biomolecular Scientist 1 and 2
• Cells and their molecules
• Organisms and diseases
• Bio-organic chemistry
• Introduction to immunology, biochemistry, microbiology, and pharmacology

Years 3 & 4

In the final two years, students specialize in their chosen area, with the opportunity to carry out a research project and present a dissertation. The modules include:

• Being a Biomolecular Scientist 3 and 4
• Biomedical biochemistry and microbiology
• Advanced biochemistry and microbiology
• Optional modules, such as clinical biochemistry and clinical microbiology

Assessment

Knowledge and understanding are assessed through written examinations, essays, presentations, and computer-aided learning exercises. Competence is assessed through practical tests, practical write-ups, project reports, and computer-aided learning exercises.

Learning & Teaching

The program includes around 240 hours of lectures, practical classes, tutorials, and computer-aided learning. Quantitative skills are taught by the Department of Maths & Statistics, the Department of Pure & Applied Chemistry, and the Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences.

Our Facilities

The university has a range of facilities, including research labs, teaching labs, and tissue culture labs.

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for the program are:

• Highers: AABB/AAAC (two sciences - Biology/Human Biology B and Chemistry B; Maths and English National 5 B)
• Advanced Highers: BB (Chemistry B, Biology/Human Biology B, plus Year 1 above)
• A Levels: BBB (two sciences required, at least one of which must be Biology or Chemistry; GCSE Chemistry 6/B, GCSE Maths 6/B, GCSE English Language 6/B or Literature 6/B)
• International Baccalaureate: 30 (Two science subjects at HL5, at least one of which must be Biology or Chemistry. Maths SL5 and English SL5)

Fees & Funding

The tuition fees for the program are:

• Scotland: £1,820
• England, Wales & Northern Ireland: £9,535
• Republic of Ireland: If you are an Irish citizen and have been ordinary resident in the Republic of Ireland for the three years prior to the relevant date, and will be coming to Scotland for Educational purposes only, you will meet the criteria of England, Wales & Northern Ireland fee status.
• International: £27,800

Careers

Graduates from the program have found jobs in a range of fields, including the pharmaceutical, biotech, and agrochemical industries, hospitals and public service laboratories, environmental centers, analytical and forensic science labs, universities, the scientific civil service, and teaching at all levels. The transferable skills gained from the program also prepare students for careers in finance, management, marketing, sales, business, and media.