Program Overview

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BSc Biochemistry with Professional Studies

BSc | Undergraduate

Course Overview

Biochemistry is the molecular basis of life. It applies chemical principles to some of the most exciting problems in the life sciences industry. Biochemistry explains how drugs work, helps us understand what goes wrong in diseases, and enables ‘genetic engineering‘. Consequently, the subject is essential to drug discovery, biotechnology and biomedical research.

Course Structure

The Biochemistry degree at Queen’s University Belfast, investigates the structures, functions and biological roles of molecules involved in metabolism, cell signalling and the transmission of genetic information. Research-led teaching and the opportunity to complete an integrated Master programme, help prepare our students for a career in biochemical research.

Throughout Stages 1 and 2, practical classes in Biochemistry reinforce and complement the theory, providing students with a solid foundation on which to build upon for Stage 3.

At the end of Stage 2, BSc Students may be eligible to transfer to the same named MSci degree pathway provided they meet certain requirements. MSci students may also transfer to the BSc degree at any point in stages 1 and 2.

BSc Biochemistry with Professional Studies students may be eligible to transfer to the same named MSci degree pathways provided they meet certain requirements.

Year Out

Biochemistry with Professional Studies students undertake a one year, degree-related work placement (year out) between Stages 2 and 3.

Course Highlights

• Industry Links: Work placements on these programmes provide students with the opportunity to utilise the practical skills gained during the teaching of their degree and apply these in a work environment.
• Professional Accreditations: Royal Society Accreditation.
• Student Experience: Final year research projects allow students to gain considerable research experience in one of the research laboratories at Queen’s University Belfast.

Entry Requirements

• A level requirements: BBB including Chemistry and Biology + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4.
• Irish leaving certificate requirements: H3H3H3H3H4H4/H3H3H3H3H3 including Higher Level grade H3 in Chemistry and Biology + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade O4 in Mathematics.
• Access Course: Successful completion of a relevant Science based Access Course (120 credits) with an average of 80% and no less than 70% in any module.
• International Baccalaureate Diploma: 32 points overall including 6,5,5 at Higher Level including Chemistry and Biology + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4.

How We Choose Our Students

In addition, to the entrance requirements above, it is essential that you read our guidance below on 'How we choose our students' prior to submitting your UCAS application.

Career Prospects

• Approximately one third of our graduates go on to further study before entering specialist employment.
• Biochemists can gain employment in growth areas such as the biotechnology, food and pharmaceutical industries, biomedical research, the NHS and research and development in academia and industry.

Modules

Year 1

• Molecular Basis of Life (BIO1103) - 20 credits
• Fundamentals of Microbiology (BIO1314) - 20 credits
• Genetics and the Molecular Toolbox (BIO1304) - 20 credits
• World of Microorganisms (BIO1301) - 20 credits
• Fundamentals of Chemistry (CHM1011) - 20 credits
• Structure, Reactivity and Mechanism in Organic and Bioorganic Chemistry (CHM1004) - 20 credits

Year 2

• Molecular Genetics and Bioinformatics 1 (BIO2312) - 20 credits
• Molecular Genetics and Bioinformatics II (BIO2313) - 20 credits
• Microbial Metabolism and Biocatalysis (BIO2311) - 20 credits
• Experimental Biochemistry (BIO2102) - 20 credits
• Advanced Cell Biology (BIO2304) - 20 credits
• Cell Biology (BIO2104) - 20 credits

Year 3

• Professional Studies (BIO3303) - 120 credits

Year 4

• Biomolecules in Health and Disease (BIO3304) - 40 credits
• Immunology and Immunotherapy (BIO3104) - 20 credits
• Microbiome: Biotechnological applications and ‘Omic manipulations (BIO3203) - 20 credits
• Research Project (BIO3308) - 40 credits

Assessment

Details of assessments associated with this course are outlined below:

• The way in which you are assessed will vary according to the Learning objectives of each module. Some modules are assessed solely through project work or written assignments. The majority are assessed through a combination of coursework and end of semester examinations.

Feedback

As you progress through your course you will receive general and specific feedback about your work from a variety of sources including lecturers, module co-ordinators, placement supervisors, personal tutors, advisers of study and your peers.

Tuition Fees

• Northern Ireland (NI) - £4,855
• Republic of Ireland (ROI) - £4,855
• England, Scotland or Wales (GB) - £9,535
• EU Other - £25,300
• International - £25,300

Additional Course Costs

• Year 1 students are required to buy a laboratory coat at a cost of £10 and may wish to buy an E-Book at a cost of £25.
• Students undertake a placement in year 3 and are responsible for funding the costs of travel, accommodation and subsistence, associated with the placement.

Scholarships

Each year, we offer a range of scholarships and prizes for new students.

International Scholarships

Information on scholarships for international students, is available at International Scholarships

How to Apply

Application for admission to full-time undergraduate and sandwich courses at the University should normally be made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).

Terms and Conditions

The terms and conditions that apply when you accept an offer of a place at the University on a taught programme of study. Queen's University Belfast Terms and Conditions