Introducing BSc Biological Sciences (Biochemistry)
Biochemistry is the study of living systems at a molecular level. Biochemists are interested in understanding the components that make up cells, how they are formed and how they interact to function.
This includes:
- how molecular machines actually ‘work
- how drugs bind and inhibit their targets
- how membranes and viruses interact
- how cell signals are transmitted
In this programme, you will study the structure and function of macromolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids and carbohydrates, and biological systems from cell extracts to whole organisms.
Applications of biochemistry
Biochemistry is the foundation for modern-day drug design and development and is based on the study of the 3D structure of drugs and their protein targets. It complements the field of pharmacology and drug delivery and has a number of other applications such as in the food, brewing and cosmetics industries.
Flexibility
Biological sciences explore the study of living organisms, covering everything from the interactions of animals in their environment to how genes are expressed.
We offer 12 different biological sciences subject areas, including biochemistry. Regardless of your initial application choice, you will have the opportunity to explore aspects of each of our programmes in the early years and can choose to specialise in whichever one interests you.
How will I learn?
Usually you will take 3 courses in each semester so 6 in total over the year. Most courses use a combination of class types that you will have a mix of each week. The main ways we teach are through:
- lectures
- tutorials
- practical or workshop sessions
- individual study
- team projects
Teaching time
Depending on the courses you choose, your weekly timetable in Years 1 and 2 is likely to involve around:
- nine hours of lectures
- eight hours of practicals or workshops
- two hours of tutorials
The timetable can vary from week to week, often practical classes are every other week. Classes are designed to complement each other - usually what's being taught in lectures will be reflected in the tutorial and practical work, giving a chance to apply knowledge to real scenarios.
As well as time spent in classes, you will need to spend some time outside of class consolidating what you've learnt, preparing for practicals or tutorials, or completing coursework. This could be around 15-20 hours of individual study each week.
In later years, you will undertake more personal study and research. You will also be linked with a research group and complete an in-depth project as an important part of your final-year assessment.
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed through a mixture of in-course assessments and examinations. Often the purpose of our assessments are to see how you apply the knowledge you have learnt to the questions or assignments you are given.
Types of assessment could include:
- practical reports
- problem solving questions
- scientific paper analysis
- tutorial presentations
A research project or dissertation will form an important part of your final-year assessment.