Biochemistry BSc Honours
Newcastle University Undergraduate programs
Key Information
Campus location
Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
Languages
English
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
3 years
Pace
Full time
Tuition fees
GBP 25,800 / per year *
Application deadline
Request info
Earliest start date
Request info
* international students; GBP 9,250 - home students
Introduction
This Biochemistry degree will equip you 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. You'll develop your understanding of what causes diseases such as cancer, and how powerful new technologies can be used in drug design and synthesis.
We're a National Centre of Excellence in biomedical research and our world-leading, the expert staff teaches on our degree programs. This means you graduate with cutting-edge knowledge in human health and disease.
Biochemistry is the study of life at the molecular level and this degree mainly focuses on human body functions. You’ll also explore the chemical processes that occur in cells of other living organisms, from bacteria to humans.
Alongside improving your knowledge and skills in molecular biology, biomedical sciences, and biotechnology, you'll also learn industry-standard analytical techniques, which are used to discover or design new drugs.
Transfer to Medicine or Dentistry
There is flexibility to transfer between our degree programs at the end of the first year if you find your interests change.
You can also apply to transfer to our Medicine or Dentistry degree. This opportunity is open to UK, EU, and international students. It is competitive, with a limited number of places available. Students are selected on the basis of academic performance in the first year, a UKCAT score, a personal statement, and, if shortlisted, an interview.
Professional accreditation and recognition
Royal Society of Biology (RSB)
This degree has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB).
Accreditation by the RSB recognizes academic excellence in the biosciences that educate the research and development leaders and innovators of the future.
Study abroad
Experience life in another country by choosing to study abroad as part of your degree. You’ll be encouraged to embrace fun and challenging experiences, make connections with new communities and graduate as a globally aware professional, ready for your future.
You can choose to spend up to a year studying at a partner institution overseas. If you choose to study abroad, it will extend your degree by a year.
Work placement
Get career ready with work placement and leave as a confident professional in your field. You can apply to spend 9 to 12 months working in any organisation in the world, and receive University support from our dedicated team to secure your dream placement. Work placements take place between stages 2 and 3.
You'll gain first-hand experience working in the sector, putting your learning into practice and developing your professional expertise.
If you choose to take a work placement, it will extend your degree by a year. Your degree title will show you have achieved the placement year. Placements are subject to availability.
Rankings
- 6th in the UK – The Guardian University Guide 2023 (Anatomy and Physiology category)
- 8th in the UK – The Guardian University Guide 2023 (Biomedical Science category)
- Global Top 125 University - QS World University Rankings 2023
- Top 140 for Anatomy and Physiology - QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022
- 65% increase in research power since 2014 – Research Excellence Framework 2021
- 42% of our research is classified as 4* world-leading research – Research Excellence Framework 2021
- 1st in the UK and 8th in the world for sustainable development – Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2022
- Top 125 for Life Sciences – Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2022
- Global Top 140 University - Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023
Curriculum
Stage 1
All of our Biomedical and Biomolecular Sciences degrees are divided into two phases:
- phase 1 is shared by all degrees and provides a broad introduction to biomolecular sciences
- phase 2 provides specialist topics relating to your degree
This flexible structure gives you the chance to try a broad range of topics, helping you to see where your interests lie before you specialize.
Phase 1 (Stage 1 and part of Stage 2)
You're introduced to biomolecular sciences through a series of modules.
Phase 2 (remainder of degree)
You'll study topics such as:
- DNA replication, recombination, and repair
- cell signaling and cell cycle
- proteins, enzymes, and analysis
- protein trafficking and membrane
- biochemistry of cancer, chronic diseases and gene expression
- applied and integrated biochemistry
You'll complete a research project in an area linked to your degree that interests you.
Compulsory Modules
- Biochemistry 15
- Genetics 15
- Microbiology and Immunology 15
- Cell Biology 15
- Practical Skills in Biomedical & Biomolecular Sciences 1 15
- Practical Skills in Biomedical and Biomolecular Sciences 2 15
- Pharmacology 15
- Physiology 15
Stage 2
Compulsory Modules
- Biochemistry and Genetics of Signalling and the Cell Cycle 20
- DNA Replication, recombination and Repair 10
- Proteins and Enzymes 20
- Protein Trafficking and Biological Membranes 20
- Advanced Protein Analysis 10
- Essential Biomedical Research Skills 20
- Control of Eukaryotic Gene Expression 10
- Cell and Molecular Biology of the Immune System 10
Stage 3
Compulsory Modules
- Integrated Biochemistry 10
- Biochemistry of Gene Expression 20
- Applied Biochemistry 20
- Biochemistry of Cancer and Chronic Diseases 20
You also take one of the following modules (shown in the optional list below):
- Research Project (40 credits)
OR
- Research Project for Exchange Students (40 credits)
Optional Modules
- Research in Biochemistry & Genetics 10
- Business Enterprise for the Bioscientist 10
- Health and Illness: Professional and Societal Perspectives 10
- Science Communication 10
- Bioethics 10
- Bioinformatics 10
- Research Project 40
- Research project for exchange students 40
Career Opportunities
Graduates from our Biochemistry degrees have gone on to work in internationally recognised companies, such as:
- BUPA
- Helena Biosciences Europe
- Cellmark
- Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies
- Quantum Pharmaceutical
- GlaxoSmithKline Plc
Admissions
Gallery
Scholarships and Funding
Several scholarship options are available. Please check the university website for more information.
Program Outcome
Royal Society of Biology (RSB)
This degree has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB).
Accreditation by the RSB recognises academic excellence in the biosciences that educates the research and development leaders and innovators of the future.
Program Tuition Fee
Program delivery
You’ll learn through a combination of lectures, practical laboratory classes, and small group seminars.
To support your learning, you will be able to access online resources such as lecture and teaching materials and recordings on our main Virtual Learning Environment.