Biochemistry has become the foundation for understanding all biological processes. The knowledge and methods developed by biochemists are applied to all fields of medicine, in agriculture and in many chemical and health related industries. Biochemistry is also unique in providing teaching and research in both protein structure and function, and genetic engineering, the two basic components of the rapidly expanding field of biotechnology.
This course will provide you with a sound training and equip you with many of the personal and practical skills you will need for your future career.
It is a flexible course designed to offer you plenty of choice so that you can either study a broad range of topics or specialise in particular areas of biochemistry.
In year 1 you will study a range of topics in six modules covering both theory and practice in biosciences.
In year 2, knowledge and practical experience are developed further.
In year 3 you will be taught specialised core modules are taught along with a range of optional modules in bioscience. You will also carry out a research project.
Year 1
Biological Chemistry (20 credits)
The Biological Chemistry module introduces the basics of molecular structure and spectroscopy, structure and function of nucleic acids, proteins, carbohydrates and lipids.
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Genetics (20 credits)
This module will help you develop an understanding of genes and genetics, and their influence on evolution and development, and looks at the basic principles of molecular genetics, and the function and evolution of genes in organisms.
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Cell Biology (20 credits)
This module will look at the multi-disciplinary nature of cell biology and the basic structure of cells, focusing on animal cells. It will help you develop a theoretical knowledge of the fundamental physiological and biochemical functions carried out by cells.
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From Molecules to Microbes (20 credits)
This module focuses on the basic principles involved in the build-up of molecules from atoms: the formation, properties and importance of bio-organic molecules, the diverse nature of micro-organisms, their structure, function and importance.
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Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Skills (20 credits)
This module is designed to help you facilitate and develop effective use of laboratory apparatus in the performance of basic techniques, and to develop practical laboratory skills relevant to biochemistry.
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Study Skills (20 credits)
In this module you will learn by observation, investigation, comparison and engagement, and develop practical learning and presentation methods which can be applied generically during year 1 and beyond. You will also gain an appreciation of Personal Development Planning and effective data handling, calculation and numerical skills.
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Year 2
Clinical Genetics and Immunology (20 credits)
The aim of this module is to provide you with a cohesive lecture and laboratory programme to enable you to become aware of mammalian immunological mechanisms. You will also develop an understanding of theoretical and practical knowledge in the application of clinical laboratory techniques used for diagnosis.
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Human Physiology (20 credits)
The aim of this module is to encourage an awareness of the physiological nature of life in humans and develop an understanding of form, function and adaptation in organ systems central to the maintenance of life and interaction with the environment.
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Fundamentals of Biochemistry (20 credits)
The aim of this module is to present a detailed account of molecular aspects of nucleic acid and amino acid metabolism, energy metabolism, cell signalling, enzyme activity and membrane structure and function, and to develop your understanding of biochemical processes and their relevance to living systems.
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Medical Biochemistry (20 credits)
This module introduces you to the concepts of chemical and biochemical tests and their relevance to clinical diagnostics. It develops your knowledge and understanding about biochemical changes in disease, and you will learn practical techniques in clinical biochemistry.
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Biochemical/Pharmaceutical Research Skills (20 credits)
The aim of this module is to help you understand the basics of scientific research in order to prepare you for future research based activity.
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Genomics and Proteomics (20 credits)
This module provides an appreciation of topics in molecular biology with an emphasis on genomics, proteomics and their underlying structural aspects.
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Year 3
Lab-based research project (40 credits)
An opportunity to work with a research group and contribute to original research in a relevant area of biochemistry. Specialist areas within the department include cancer biochemistry, drug design and testing, molecular biology, glycobiology and biophysics.
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Biotechnology (20 credits)
Gain an awareness of the importance of biotechnology in industry, and develop your knowledge of a variety of biochemical processes in a range of important industrial applications.
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Biochemistry of Disease (20 credits)
Study the biochemical origins of the biochemical processes that occur in certain motabotic diseases; and the treatment of some diseases and analytical methodologies through practical experimentation of detecting the diseased state.
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Drugs and Disease (20 credits)
Through this module you will develop an understanding of the physical and chemical principles underlying biological activity of selected chemotherapeutic agents and other drugs. You will investigate currently active research areas and to present a coherent analysis of up-to-date knowledge.
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Medical and Public Health Microbiology (20 credits)
In this module you will be introduced to medical and public health microbiology, practical skills, methods of isolation, identification and typing of bacteria from various sources.
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Or
Topics in Human Physiology (20 credits)
The aim of this module is to develop an understanding of selected human physiological systems including the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, and the methodology used to monitor and assess cardiovascular and respiratory function.
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Or
Clinical Immunology (20 credits)
This module looks at mammalian immunological mechanisms, and the roles played by T and B cells/Lymphokines in generating an immune response. It helps you develop an understanding of the genetics of antibody diversity, HIV pathogenesis and the current immunodiagnostic assays for infectious and non-infectious diseases.
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Part-time structure
If you are studying part-time you select two to four modules from each year of study, completing the rest of the modules for the year in the following year. This leads to a maximum six-year duration for a part-time degree. If studying part-time you do not have the placement option.
