Biochemistry BSc Honours

The Biochemistry degree at Newcastle University is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills essential for a successful career in science, industry, medical research, and healthcare. This degree explores how cell components are formed and interact at a molecular level, developing an understanding of what causes diseases such as cancer and how powerful new technologies can be used in drug design and synthesis.

Course Overview

• UCAS code: C700
• Full time: 3 years
• Tuition fees (Year 1): Home: Not Set, International: £30,900
• Entry requirements: A-Level: AAB including Biology or Chemistry, plus at least one from: Mathematics or Further Mathematics; Physics; Psychology; Biology; or Chemistry. International Baccalaureate: 34 points with Biology or Chemistry and another science at Higher Level grade 5 or above.

Quality and Ranking

• 17th in the UK – The Complete University Guide 2026 (Biomedical Sciences category)
• 12th in the UK – The Guardian University Guide 2026 (Anatomy and Physiology category)
• Global Top 140 University - QS World University Rankings 2026
• Top 100 for Anatomy and Physiology - QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025

Modules and Learning

The programme is divided into stages, with each stage lasting one academic year. Students complete modules totalling 120 credits by the end of each stage. The teaching is informed by research, and course content may change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline.

Stage 1

• Compulsory modules:
  • Molecules of Life
  • Infectious Threats: past, present and future
  • Core Skills in Biosciences
  • Core Concepts in Biosciences
  • Therapeutic Mechanisms
  • Cells to Systems

Stage 2

• Compulsory modules:
  • Skills for Bioscientists: Techniques, Tools, and Applications
  • Genomics and Gene expression in Disease
  • Anatomy and Cellular Systems
  • Proteins: Structure, Function and Biochemistry
  • Biochemistry of Gene Expression
• Optional modules (take one from each list):
  • Bioinformatics for Biosciences
  • Cell Signalling in Health and Disease
  • Immunology of Health and Disease
  • Microbial Genomics and Genome Mining
  • Nature's Tinkerer: Mechanisms of Evolutionary Change
  • Protein Trafficking: Mechanisms and Roles in Disease
  • Business Enterprise for Bioscientists
  • Respiration and Digestion: Global challenges in Health and Disease

Stage 3

• Compulsory modules:
  • Becoming a Bioscientist: Skills for Research and Beyond
  • Biochemistry of Disease
  • Applied Biochemistry for Drug Discovery
• Research Project or Research Project Overseas (40 credits)
• Optional module (take one):
  • Rare Diseases: Genetic Variants to Physiological Function and Therapies
  • Microbiota and Pathogens in Fundamental Research and the Clinic
  • In vivo research
  • Neurodegenerative and Neurological Disorders of the Nervous System
  • Patterns and Determinants of Disease in Human Populations
  • Evolutionary Genomics in Fundamental Research and the Clinic
  • The Application of Bioinformatics Techniques to Biomedical Data
  • Therapeutic Applications of Cell Signalling
  • Applied Technologies for Biosciences

Opportunities

• Study abroad: Experience life in another country by choosing to study abroad as part of your degree.
• Work placement: Apply your practical skills, increase your confidence, and gain real-life work experience to accelerate your career.

Facilities and Environment

• Based in the School of Biomedical, Nutritional and Sport Sciences in the Faculty of Medical Sciences at the city-centre campus.
• Facilities include a dedicated medical library, spacious modern teaching laboratories, hi-tech computer clusters, and study spaces.

Your Future

Graduates from the Biochemistry degree have gone on to work in internationally recognized companies. The programme has been designed with employers to boost professional skills in relevant employment areas.

Entry Requirements

• A-Level: AAB including Biology or Chemistry, plus at least one from: Mathematics or Further Mathematics; Physics; Psychology; Biology; or Chemistry.
• International Baccalaureate: 34 points with Biology or Chemistry and another science at Higher Level grade 5 or above.
• English Language requirements: IELTS, TOEFL, Pearsons, Duolingo English Test, or other qualifications.

Tuition Fees and Scholarships

• Tuition fees for academic year 2026: Home fees have not yet been confirmed, International fees: £30,900.
• Scholarships available for UK, EU, and international students.

Admissions Policy

The University Admissions Policy applies to all undergraduate and postgraduate admissions at Newcastle University. It is intended to provide information about admissions policies and procedures to applicants and potential applicants, to their advisors and family members, and to staff of the University.

Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can allow you to convert existing relevant university-level knowledge, skills, and experience into credits towards a qualification.

How to Apply

To apply for undergraduate study at Newcastle University, you must use the online application system managed by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).

Get in Touch

For more information, contact the university through their website or by phone.

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Overview:

Newcastle University is a public research university located in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. It is known for its high-quality research and teaching, and its commitment to social justice and engagement.

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Services Offered:

The university offers a wide range of services to students, including: *

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Careers Service:

Provides guidance and support with career planning, job applications, and internships. *

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Library:

Offers extensive resources, including books, journals, databases, and study spaces. *

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Student Support:

Provides a variety of services to help students succeed, including academic support, counseling, and disability services. *

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Accommodation:

Offers a range of on-campus accommodation options, including halls of residence and self-catered apartments. *

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Sport:

Provides access to a variety of sports facilities and activities.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Newcastle University offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can get involved in a wide range of clubs and societies, attend events and lectures, and enjoy the city's nightlife and cultural attractions.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

High-quality research and teaching:

Newcastle University is consistently ranked highly in national and international league tables.

Strong focus on employability:

The university has a strong track record of preparing graduates for successful careers.

Vibrant and diverse campus community:

Students can enjoy a welcoming and supportive environment.

Excellent location:

Newcastle is a thriving city with a rich history and culture.

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Academic Programs:

Newcastle University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across a variety of disciplines, including: *

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Science, Agriculture & Engineering

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Humanities & Social Sciences

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Medical Sciences

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Other:

• The university has a strong commitment to sustainability and social justice.
• It is home to a number of research centers and institutes, including the Centre for Ageing and Inequalities and the Centre for Data.
• Newcastle University is a member of the Russell Group, a group of 24 leading research-intensive universities in the UK.