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    Biochemistry
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    Liverpool John Moores University

    Biochemistry

    Liverpool John Moores University

    Liverpool John Moores University

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    United Kingdom, Liverpool

    University RankQS Ranking
    755

    Key Facts

    Program Level

    Bachelor

    Study Type

    Full Time

    Delivery

    On Campus

    Course Code

    C700

    Campuses

    City

    Program Language

    English

    Start & Deadlines

    Next Intake DeadlinesSeptember-2023
    Apply to this program

    Go to the official application for the university

    Duration 4 year(s)
    Tuition Fee
    GBP 21,050  / year
    Next Intake September-2023

    Biochemistry

    About

    Why study Biochemistry at Liverpool John Moores University?

    • £6 million invested in state-of-the-art teaching facilities
    • Opportunities to undertake a year's industrial placement or Erasmus placement
    • Stepping stone to more specialist MSc Industrial Biotechnology or MSc Cosmetic Science
    • This degree is available to study following a foundation year-
    • International Foundation Year course available offering direct progression onto this degree programme – visit LJMU's International Study Centre to find out more

    About your course

    The BSc (Hons) Biochemistry at Liverpool John Moores University is taught in state-of-the-art facilities and includes extensive opportunities to secure practical hands-on experience.

    The study of biochemistry will appeal to you if you are interested in the biochemical workings of living organisms, cellular metabolism, genomics and proteomics and the biochemical nature of disease. It draws on the different disciplines of cellular biology, physiology, genetics, microbiology, molecular biology and medical biochemistry. This provides a solid grounding for more specialist MSc study in, for example, industrial biotechnology, cosmetic science, virology, immunology and genetics. 

     

    The degree course also enables you to develop intellectual independence, critical awareness and flexibility – attributes that are vital in the workplace. Optional modules in level 6, and the opportunity for individual research and work placements, allow you to specialise in your own particular areas of interest. The opportunity to take a year out in industry or an Erasmus placement gives you invaluable paid work experience and the chance to put skills and knowledge developed in the first two years into practice. Most employers prefer to take on graduates who have had this experience.

      What you will study on this degree

      Please see guidance on core and option modules for further information on what you will study.

      Further guidance on modules

      Modules are designated core or option in accordance with professional body requirements, as applicable, and LJMU's Academic Framework Regulations.

      Whilst you are required to study core modules, optional modules are also included to provide you with an element of choice within the programme. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to meeting minimum student numbers.

      This course is currently undergoing its scheduled programme review, which may impact the advertised modules. Programme review is a standard part of the University's approach to quality assurance and enhancement, enabling us to ensure that our courses remain up to date and maintain their high standard and relevancy. Once the review is completed, this course website page will be updated to reflect any approved changes to the advertised course. These approved changes will also be communicated to those who apply for the course to ensure they wish to proceed with their application.

      Where changes to modules are necessary these will be communicated as appropriate.

      Level 4

      Core modules

      Introduction to Structural and Functional Biochemistry
      20 credits

      This module enables you to develop a basic fundamental understanding of structural and functional aspects of macromolecules, particularly proteins, in biology. This module will also enable you to demonstrate understanding of how protein structure impacts on protein function.

      Physiological Biochemistry
      20 credits

      This module enables you to explore the link between, nutrition, physiology and cellular metabolism in prokaryote and eukaryote cells. In addition, the chemistry which underpins each biochemical process is made clear by making use of worked examples and through practical experiments. This module will also introduce you to the concept of cellular metabolism and how nutrition and physiology impact on both eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. 

      Microbial Biotechnology 1
      20 credits

      This module provides you with a broad spectrum of knowledge about microorganisms and their activities which will provide a foundation for microbiology modules at Levels 5 and 6. The module will be delivered through a series of lectures, practicals and workshops. 

      Practical and Employability Skills in Biochemistry
      20 credits

      The aim of this module is to facilitate effective study of Biochemistry by providing a foundation in employability, communication and research skills, data handling, statistics, IT, laboratory techniques and underpinning theory. You will have the opportunity to identify and reflect upon aspects of personal development and employability will a strong thread embedded throughout the module.

      Introduction to Cell Biology
      20 credits

      The aim of this module is to provide an introduction to the field of cell biology (the study of the structure and function of cells).This module will enable you to demonstrate basic understanding of cell structure/function and how cells give rise to functions within tissues. 

      Introduction to Molecular Biology
      20 credits

      This module enables you to understand the importance of the molecular mechanisms underpinning molecular biology. This will then introduce you to omics and model organisms which will be further developed at Level 5. Tutorials linked to subject material as well as personal development planning are embedded in this module.

      Level 5

      Core modules

      Methods in Biochemistry
      20 credits

      Within this module, you will develop your knowledge of theory and practise a range of methods relevant to research and practice in Biochemistry. You will further develop your skills, critical evaluation and career planning. 

      Metabolic Biochemistry
      20 credits

      This module will enable you to gain a deeper understanding of the regulation and interaction of metabolic pathways within eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. You will evaluate the use of laboratory tests for the determination of biochemically important molecules. 

      Structural and Functional Biochemistry
      20 credits

      This module enables you to develop a deeper understanding of structural and functional aspects of macromolecules, particularly proteins, in biology. The module provides you with a detailed view of aspects of the structure and function of macromolecules and relationships between the two. 

      Molecular Biology and Functional Genomics
      20 credits

      This module provides you with a detailed understanding of the molecular mechanisms that are applicable to human disease states, development and genetic engineering. The module will empower you to demonstrate a critical understanding of genomic integrity and human disease. Transcriptional control, developmental biology, genetic engineering and bioinformatics will be introduced. You will encounter experimental methods for the investigation of the relevant areas of biochemistry and molecular biology using data from high-throughput techniques.

      Molecular Cell Biology
      20 credits

      This module will introduce you to a range of important cellular processes and some of the main molecular mechanisms associated with the regulation of these processes. It will empower you to demonstrate a critical understanding of signal transduction, cell proliferation and mechanisms of cell death. You will encounter experimental methods for the investigation of relevant areas of biochemistry and molecular biology.

      Microbial Biotechnology 2
      20 credits

      This module is designed to develop your understanding of the physiology and behaviour of microorganisms populating various habitats with emphasis on their responses to particular physical and chemical conditions. It will also develop a broad understanding of the biotechnological importance of microorganisms.

      Level 6

      Core modules

      Research Project
      40 credits

      The Research Project will equip you with the necessary transferable skills to investigate a research topic and present it using appropriate methods of scientific communication.

      Advanced Structural and Functional Biochemistry
      20 credits

      The aim of this module is to develop an advanced understanding of structural and functional aspects of macromolecules, particularly proteins, in biology. The module provides an advanced view of aspects of the structure and function of macromolecules and relationships between the two. 

      Biochemistry Symposia
      20 credits

      The aim of this module is to learn how to retrieve and critically evaluate complex information. You will conduct investigations in an independent manner and demonstrate the wide range of skills and knowledge required to deal with real-life employment opportunities. 

      Advanced Cell and Molecular Biology
      20 credits

      The aim of this module is to provide you with state-of-the-art knowledge of central aspects of cell and molecular biology and to encourage development of skills for experimental design. The module will enable you to critically analyse research topics from cell and molecular biology and to design theoretical experiments on a given topic. 

      Optional modules

      Microbial Technology
      20 credits

      This module will build upon core knowledge in microbiology covered in levels 4 and 5. It will provide you with training and assessment in areas including bioinformatics, new generation sequencing and its applications, antibiotic production, imaging technology, antibiotic resistance, phage therapy and will include the application of microbial processes to bioremediation and also product formation.

      Cancer
      20 credits

      The aim of this module is to provide a bench to bedside approach to cancer, underpinning the key molecular and cellular events during the initiation and progression of cancer and providing an appreciation of diagnostic techniques and therapies available. The module aims to consolidate your prior learning in genetics, histology, cell biology, molecular biology, chemistry, biochemistry within a disease model. 

      Biomaterials
      20 credits

      The aim of this module is to facilitate you in examining in detail the importance of biomaterials in contemporary biomedicine. You will discover how your analysis in vitro predicts success in vivo. Through a series of lectures detailing the importance of various properties of biomaterials and how their properties are evaluated you will develop a detailed comprehension of how these substances are continually revolutionising medicine. 

      Work-Based Learning
      20 credits

      The aim of this module is to provide an opportunity to spend time in a workplace environment relevant to your subject discipline. You will build links between theory and practice through practical experience of work - reinforcing and complementing formal study. 

      Applications of Genetics in Health and Disease
      20 credits

      This module provides you with an appreciation of some modern genetic and genomic techniques that are regularly used in studies of health and disease. It is recommended that students complete the level 5 module Genes and Genomes before taking this module.

      Neurobiology
      20 credits

      This module builds on neurobiology-related concepts taught during the level 5 Physiology of Life module. The module provides you with an insight into how molecular, cellular and organ components contribute to form the body's most complex system and how different factors can produce dysregulation of the nervous system.

      Teaching and work-related learning

      Excellent facilities and learning resources

      We adopt an active blended learning approach, meaning you will experience a combination of face-to-face and online learning during your time at LJMU. This enables you to experience a rich and diverse learning experience and engage fully with your studies.  Our approach ensures that you can easily access support from your personal tutor, either by meeting them on-campus or via a video call to suit your needs.

      Teaching at all levels is via lectures, lab sessions, workshops, tutorials and online which account for approximately 15-20 hours' study time each week; the rest of your time should be spent in private study. Workshops and small-group tutorials give you a chance to discuss course material more informally and your personal tutor will also organise twice yearly one-to-one tutorials with you.

      Work-related Learning

      As part of your work-related learning, we highly recommend that you opt to undertake a year's work placement after your second year. This will not only give you a chance to put into practice what you have learnt in the first two years but it will also help you develop your personal skills, earn a salary while taking a year's break from formal study, and add real value to your CV.

      Support and guidance

      Dedicated personal tutor, plus study skills support

      Throughout your course you will have the support of a personal tutor who will be available to discuss course-related matters in both tutorial sessions and on a one-to-one basis. If you opt to take a year out on work placement, this will be coordinated for you by a placement tutor and during the year you will have ongoing support from a member of staff, which will include visits to your workplace.

      The school is fully committed to promoting a learning environment that supports a culture of equality, diversity and inclusivity (EDI) and has a Disability Support Coordinator, an EDI Coordinator and a School EDI Working Group. Personal Tutors also play a vital role in promoting awareness of support services for students.

      Assessment

      Assessment varies depending on the modules you choose, but will usually include a combination of exams and coursework.

      Assessment methods vary according to the modules you choose, but most are assessed through a combination of exam and coursework and some by coursework only. Exams are normally held at the end of each year and can be in the form of multiple choice, short answer, interpretative, problem-based learning or essay questions. 

      Coursework assessments could include phase tests, fieldwork/practical reports, data handling, oral presentations, poster presentations, group discussions, essays or the evaluation of your practical skills, and are based on individual assignments though some require group work. Feedback on coursework assessments is normally provided within three weeks of submission and may be via Canvas (our virtual learning environment), face-to-face or in writing. We believe that constructive feedback is vital in helping you identify your strengths as well as the areas where you may need to put in more work.

      Course tutors

      Our staff are committed to the highest standards of teaching and learning

      Dr Iain Hargreaves

      Senior Lecturer

      Dr Iain Hargreaves

      Senior Lecturer

      Dr Hargreaves has worked in the field of metabolic disease since 1995 when he began a postdoctoral fellowship to study mitochondrial metabolism at the Institute of Neurology, London. In 1997, he joined the Neurometabolic Unit, National Hospital as a principal clinical scientist to run the mitochondrial disease biochemical diagnostic service. In 2005, he established the first coenzyme Q10 NHS diagnostic service and became an Honorary Senior Lecturer at University College of London. Iain joined LJMU as a Senior Lecturer in Biochemistry and Biomedical sciences in 2016 and now hold a readership in clinical biochemistry.  His research interests are focussed on mitochondrial and coenzyme Q10 metabolism and their involvement in disease. In addition, he is also involved in the development of therapeutic strategies to ameliorate mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress in metabolic diseases that may be translatable into clinical practice. 

      As a lecturer I am afforded the opportunity to include research led learning into my teaching. This involves discussing current research that is relevant to the topic of study as well as referring to metabolic diseases to highlight the importance of biochemical pathways in maintaining the health of an individual

      Facilities

      What you can expect from your School

      You will study at the Byrom Street site in the university's City Campus in the heart of Liverpool. Our state-of-the-art laboratories and teaching spaces will ensure you enjoy a first-class study environment. The Avril Robarts library is within easy walking distance and here you'll find all the information you need to support your studies.

      Disciplines

      Faculty of Science

      Requirements

      Entry Requirements

      Applicants require a High School Certificate (Tawjihi) plus 1 year of further study to include: Community College Certificate / Diploma / General Vocational Secondary Education Certificate For entry onto the first year. A-level applicants require 104 points are required and students studying the International Baccalaureate Diploma will need to achieve 27 points or more for first year entry.

      Career

      Career prospects for graduates of this BSc Biochemistry course are excellent.

      Pharmaceutical companies and others involved in the food, cosmetics and toiletries industries, such as MedImmune, Novartis Vaccines, AstraZeneca, Unilever and Bristol-Myers Squibb, employ many of our biochemistry graduates directly. However, you may wish to use your qualification to undertake further study or training before entering employment. 

      Some graduates prefer to continue their studies with postgraduate study (PGCE/PGDE, MSc, MPhil, MRes or PhD) in topics as wide ranging as tropical medicine, cardiovascular disease, biomedical sciences, oncology, biotechnology, toxicology, virology and cosmetic science. Other graduates have chosen to move to non-science careers such as marketing, management, law and other graduate disciplines.

      Student Futures - Careers, Employability and Enterprise Service

      We are committed to ensuring all our students experience a transformation in their employability skills and mindset and their career trajectory. A wide range of opportunities and support is available to you, within and beyond your course.

      Every undergraduate curriculum includes Future Focus during Level 4, an e-learning resource and workshop designed to help you to develop your talents, passion and purpose. It will enable you to become more proactive, adaptable and resilient in your awareness and approach to career possibilities.

      Every student has access to Careers Zone 24/7, LJMU's state-of-the-art suite of online tools, resources and jobs board. There are opportunities for flexible, paid and part-time work through Unitemps, LJMU's in-house recruitment service, ensuring students can build experience whilst they study.

      One-to-one careers and employability advice is available via our campus-based Careers Zones to accelerate your job search and applications, CV and interview technique. Themed careers and employability workshops, a programme of employer events and recruitment fairs run throughout the year and students have the opportunity to hear from a range of alumni who openly share their own onward experience.

      Student Futures work with businesses to create opportunities for fully funded internships which help students increase their network within the Liverpool City Region and beyond. Our Start-Up Hub can help you to grow your enterprise skills and to research, plan and start your own business or become a freelancer.

      A suite of learning experiences, services and opportunities is available to final year students to help ensure you leave with a great onward plan. You can access LJMU's Careers, Employability and Enterprise Services after you graduate and return for one-to-one support for life.

      Fee Information

      Tuition Fee

      GBP 21,050  / year

      How to Apply

      All applications for September 2023 entry must be submitted by Friday 30 June 2023. Once an offer has been made, applicants will have a further 28 days to pay a deposit for the course. Failure to do so, may result in your offer being cancelled.

      When you apply to LJMU via UCAS, your ability to achieve the entry criteria is just one area that we take into account. Another important part of the application form is your personal statement, which is an opportunity for you to tell us about yourself. You should include your skills, relevant interests and hobbies, along with why you want to study the course. 

      Any work experience or voluntary work should be mentioned here, but don’t just state where and when, tell us about what you have learned and why you enjoyed it. We are looking for motivation, commitment and enthusiasm. This is your opportunity to convince us why you would like to study on the course you have chosen at LJMU.

      If you need further help in filling in your UCAS form there are full instructions at ucas.com or you can contact UCAS direct: +44 330 3330 230 open Monday to Friday, 8.30am-6pm (GMT)

      You can submit your application to UCAS from 6 September for entry in September the following year. We advise early applications as some courses become full. The final application deadline for International students is 1 April 2023.

      Additional requirements

      In addition to satisfying the general academic criteria, you will also need to demonstrate your English language proficiency. The English language level required is also listed alongside each course in this. You are advised to check our online course information for detailed and up-to-date entry requirements for specific degrees.

      If you miss the deadline for applications, don’t worry, as applications for many courses can be made through UCAS Clearing.

      Once you have applied UCAS sends the applications to us and we pass them to the Admissions Officer responsible for selecting students for each course. Every application is considered very carefully and you will be notified by UCAS whether or not your application has been successful. You can also track your application and make your decisions online via UCAS Track.

      Liverpool John Moores University

      Biochemistry

      Liverpool John Moores University

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      United Kingdom,

      Liverpool

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