Biochemistry, BSc

Course content

Year one of the Biochemistry course provides you with an integrated foundation to the subject including the key elements of biochemistry, chemistry and molecular biology. The focus will be on the molecules and processes of life and you will attend lectures in 'hot topics' given by Faculty experts and invited external speakers which will introduce you to cutting edge research.

In year two, you'll focus on more in-depth studies of the major areas that underpin modern biochemistry. Tutorials will emphasise data analysis, problem solving and the interpretation of research literature, whilst practicals will see you take more responsibility in experimental design.

Final year focuses on the development of specialist knowledge. A distinctive feature of studying with us in final year is the strong emphasis on 'advanced topics', which include directed evolution, gene therapy, and neurodegeneration. These topics are taught by leaders in their research fields and focus on an understanding of specialist subjects at the cutting edge of knowledge.

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Entry requirements, fees and applying

  Entry requirements

  A-level: AAA - AAB

  Including Chemistry and another science subject. Critical Thinking and General Studies excluded.

  We accept the following science subjects: biology, human biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics. Science-related subjects: PE, geography, use of mathematics, psychology, statistics, geology and computing.

  Applicants taking a Science A-level (in England) will be required to achieve a pass in the practical element in addition to the standard A-level grade requirement.

  GCSE: Typically Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE Maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English.

  • Career opportunities

    Number 1 for employability - the Faculty of Biological Sciences is ranked highest for employability amongst Russell Group universities. Higher than Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, Durham, Edinburgh, Kings College, Liverpool, Manchester, York.

    In addition to providing subject-specific knowledge, we equip all our students with the best possible skills for future careers. All of our degrees have a strong emphasis on practical based teaching, small group teaching, online learning and problem solving. Throughout the degree, students gain a wide range of transferable skills which are highly valued by employers. Supported by the Leeds for Life scheme and their academic and personal tutor, students are ideally placed to focus on their personal development and make the most of their time at university.

    A Leeds biochemistry degree is much respected by employers from different walks of life, particularly given the analytical, technical and numeric properties of the programme. Our graduates have, for many years, experienced high employment rates and a high proportion quickly gain employment upon graduation. 96% of our graduates are employed or in further study six months after graduation. Our programmes enable graduates to obtain employment in scientific and non-scientific careers alike. We emphasise the development of 'transferable graduate skills' throughout our courses.

    The majority of Leeds biochemistry graduates continue with postgraduate qualifications (higher than the national average), at Leeds or elsewhere; the large size of the department provides for 30 PhD positions each year. Others enter the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, paramedical, environmental and agrochemical sectors. Our graduates also progress into research institutes, academia, forensic science and hospital and public health laboratories.

    Recent graduate destinations include:

    Careers support

    Faculty Employability team
    

    We have a dedicated Employability Officer in the Faculty of Biological Sciences who works closely with the University's Careers Centre. We offer a host of additional opportunities beyond core course content, including volunteering and placements. We also organise regular careers workshops designed specifically for sport sciences students to develop their career opportunities. These include our annual Bioscience Networking Event, which gives you the chance to meet bioscience employers, speak to alumni, attend workshops and get masses of information.

    We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That's one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

    Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.

    The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

  • Study abroad and work placements

    Study abroad

    On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. The University has partnerships with more than 400 universities worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America. 

    Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

    If you choose to undertake a study abroad option, you will spend the third year of the BSc studying abroad. This will extend your studies by 12 months.

    Work placements

    Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.

    Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.

    Industrial placements are typically taken between your second and final year. If you choose to undertake a placement year, this will extend your studies by 12 months. For your work placement in industry, staff at Leeds will help you with your CV and application letters and provide a list of organisations which may offer industrial placements.

    Placements abroad are possible. We work together with your industrial supervisors to make sure you get the most out of this year. A year working in industry gives you an excellent opportunity to get used to the demands of the world of work, to develop new skills and to augment your CV.

  • Related courses

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