Course Overview
Course summary
Our Biochemistry BSc will give you the skills and knowledge to establish yourself in a range of careers related to biochemistry, including the pharmaceutical, diagnostic and biotechnology industries.
Biochemistry is a pivotal degree discipline and a fundamental part of all the biological sciences. It is the study of living systems at the molecular level, and biochemists study the ways in which cells and organisms are formed.
The foundation of our course is our thriving research in diverse areas of biochemistry, including biotechnology, cancer biology, membrane transport, molecular diagnostics and therapeutics, plant biochemistry, and protein structure.
In this degree, you'll gain a sound foundation in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology and analytical biochemical techniques. You will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in gene editing using cutting-edge tools such as CRISPR.
Your laboratory and research skills will be developed throughout your degree, culminating in your final-year project in which you'll undertake original research of your own.
Top reasons to study with us
- Satisfied students – 100% of our Biochemistry BSc students were satisfied with the quality of the course. (Source: Discover Uni – site accessed in November 2020)
- Learn the fundamentals – Gain a solid grounding in biochemistry as well as the skills you'll need to expand on your subject knowledge and keep pace with new developments
- Gain research skills – Our course will equip you to work as a researcher in the field of biochemistry. You'll benefit from a strong programme of laboratory sessions as well as hands-on training in bioinformatics
- Prepare for your career – Studying biochemistry will equip you for a career in a range of areas including the pharmaceutical industry, biotechnology, biomedicine, environmental sustainability and food security
Course structure
The general principles of biochemistry, cell biology and human physiology are established at Credit Level 4. Your understanding of molecular biology and genetics, metabolism, protein chemistry and enzyme function and other aspects of cellular function are then developed at Credit Levels 5 and 6. A number of options are also offered, allowing you to pursue your own interests within biochemistry and its associated disciplines.
Learning and teaching opportunities are a mixture of face-to-face teaching (lectures, seminars, tutorials and practicals), independent work, laboratory work and online support activities.
The range of assessment methods includes exams, laboratory practicals, essays, blogs, posters and presentations.
The following subjects are indicative of what you will study on this course.
Subjects of study include:
Core modules
- Biochemistry
- Biological Chemistry
- Cell Biology,
- Human Physiology
- Professional Development in Science (PRoDS).
Option modules
- Applications of Biological Sciences
- Fundamentals of Pharmacology
- Science: History Philosophy and Practice
Credit Level 4
Subjects of study include:
Core modules
- Metabolic Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology and Genetics
- Proteins and Enzymes
- Research Methods.
Option modules
- Bioinformatics
- Contemporary Global Challenges in Biology
- Experimental and Therapeutic Pharmacology
- Exploring the Microbial World
- Genetics in Medicine
- Human Parasitology
- Medical Physiology
- Molecular and Cellular Therapeutics
- Neuroscience
Credit Level 5
Professional experience or study abroad year
Between Years 2 and 3, you’ll have the opportunity to undertake a professional placement year in industry. Completing the placement year will lead to the final award Bachelor of Science with Honours – Biochemistry with Professional Experience.
Alternatively, you can undertake a period of study abroad at one of Westminster’s partner institutions. Successful completion will lead to the final award Bachelor of Science with Honours – Biochemistry with International Experience.
Find out more about the costs involved in taking a study abroad or placement year.
Subjects of study include:
Core modules
- Final Year Project in Life Sciences
- Gene Editing and Genomics
- Life: Origins and Evolution
Option modules
- Advanced Physiology and Pharmacology
- Applied Biotechnology
- Cancer Biology
- Designing a Sustainable World
- Drug Discovery: Bench to Bedside
- Global Ethics
- Pharmaceutical Drug Design and Development
Credit Level 6
Professional accreditation
This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for the purpose of meeting in part the academic and experience requirement for the Membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol).
This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology following an independent and rigorous assessment. Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.
For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF).
To request an accessible version please email [email protected]
Get your copy of the University of Westminster prospectus and browse the range of courses on offer.
Contact us for general course enquiries:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm GMT)
Live chat with us
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm GMT)
Open days
Join us at an open day online or on campus. Get a feel for student life at the University of Westminster and talk to course leaders and our support teams.
Can't attend? See more open events
Careers
Student satisfaction
100% of our Biochemistry BSc students were satisfied with the quality of the course.
[Source: Discover Uni – site accessed in November 2020]
Prepare for your career
Studying biochemistry will equip you for a career in a range of areas including the pharmaceutical industry, biotechnology, biomedicine, environmental sustainability and food security.
Employers around the world
The University’s Careers and Employability Service has built up a network of over 3,000 employers around the world, helping all our students explore and connect with exciting opportunities and careers.
Industry links
Graduates of our course benefit from associate membership of the Royal Society of Biology, which provides networking opportunities and a foundation from which to apply for CBiol (Chartered Biologist).
Job roles
Biochemistry graduates work in a wide range of areas including:
- Biotechnology
- Biomedicine
- Environmental sustainability
- Food security
- Pharmaceuticals
You'll be able to develop your own interests and aspirations in these areas during your degree through your module choices.
International Opportunities
Many of our courses offer international study and work experiences, and the University provides other global opportunities that all students can apply for - so whatever you're studying, you'll have the chance to go abroad.
Opportunities could include:
- Taking part in semester or year-long exchanges at institutions around the world
- Attending an international summer school or field trip
- Developing your CV through volunteering or work placements abroad
International experience broadens horizons, boosts self-confidence, and improves global understanding, alongside being fantastic for your career.
Find out more about our international opportunities, including funding options and where you can go.
Course Leaders
We don’t just want to teach you biochemistry, we want to train you to be a biochemist
Dr Stuart Thompson
Senior Lecturer
Dr Thompson is a biochemist and plant scientist carrying out cutting-edge research into plant growth and plant biomechanics.
He has written a number of popular science articles on plant science and food security published by The i newspaper, The Conversation, Newsweek, the World Economic Forum and The European Financial Review.
More about meSee full profile of Dr Stuart ThompsonDr Sarah Coleman
Senior Lecturer
Dr Sarah Coleman is a biochemist and molecular neuroscientist.
She graduated with a BSc in Biochemistry at University of Essex and then a PhD in Biochemistry at the School of Pharmacy, London. She then moved to University of Helsinki, Finland researching on neuronally expressed glutamate receptors. In 2015 she moved back to London and joined the University of Westminster as lecturer in biochemistry.
Sarah is the local representative of the Biochemical Society and a member of the British Neuroscience Association.
More about meSee full profile of Dr Sarah Coleman
We aim to enthuse you about science and mould you into independent thinkers.
Course Team
Why study this course?
Learn the fundamentals
Studying our degree, you'll gain a solid grounding in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology and analytical biochemical techniques.
Build your skillset
You'll develop skills in a range of laboratory and other research techniques, as well as getting hands-on training in bioinformatics.
Fantastic London location
Our central London location means that you'll be perfectly placed to take advantage of career and collaboration opportunities in the city.
Entry Requirements
- A levels – CCC (96 UCAS Tariff points), with two science subjects from Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Maths
- T levels – 96 UCAS Tariff points in Science
- International Baccalaureate – 96 UCAS Tariff points from the IB including a minimum of 4 in two HL science subjects
- BTEC Extended Diploma – MMM in Applied Science
- BTEC Diploma – DD in Applied Science
- Access – 96 UCAS Tariff points from the Access course in Science
In addition to one of the above, you should have:
- GCSE English Language grade 4/C – IB grade 4 Higher level, GCSE Maths grade 4/C – IB grade 4
If your first language is not English, you will need an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with 5.5 in each component.
We also welcome applications from students who are taking a combination of qualifications listed above. For further information, please contact Course Enquiries.
View more information about our entry requirements and the application process
- International Baccalaureate – 96 UCAS Tariff points from all components of the Diploma Programme. International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme will be considered on a case-by-case basis. You can refer to the UCAS calculator to determine your point score
- We accept a wide range of international high school level qualifications. Please see information on Country-specific entry requirements
- We work in partnership with Kaplan International College London who provide International Foundation Certificate courses for students who don’t meet our entry requirements. Upon successful completion, you can progress to your chosen degree at the University of Westminster. Find out about a range of university preparation courses that are accepted for entry.
English language requirements
- If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS score of 6.0 overall, with a score of 5.5 in each component. Please note we accept a wide range of English language qualifications and assessments. Find out more at English language requirements.
- If you don't meet the English language requirements yet, then we offer online and on campus pre-sessional English programmes to help develop your English language skills to the required level before you start your course. Find out more about our pre-sessional English programmes.
More information
Learn new skills
Learn a new language
From Arabic to Spanish, you can learn a new language alongside your degree with our Polylang programme.
Develop your entrepreneurial skills
Our award-winning Westminster Enterprise Network offers industry networking events, workshops, one-to-one business advice and support for your startup projects.
Gain extra qualifications
We provide access to free online courses in Adobe and Microsoft Office applications, as well as thousands of specialist courses on LinkedIn Learning.
Fees and Funding
UK tuition fee: £9,250 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Funding
As well as tuition fee loans, there is a range of funding available to help you fund your studies.
Find out about undergraduate student funding options.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible undergraduate students, which cover all or part of your tuition fees.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
You should budget between £50-£100 for additional materials at Level 4, £50-£100 at Level 5 and £50-£100 at Level 6.
See also our general policy on what your tuition fees cover.
International tuition fee: £17,000 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme
If you are an international student accepted on an undergraduate programme starting in September 2024 or September 2025 at level 3 (Foundation) or level 4 (first year) on the basis of an eligible EU qualification only, you will be awarded a tuition fee reduction which will align your fee more closely to the one for UK students. For more information, see the EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme.
International student funding
Find out about funding for international students.
Additional costs
You should budget between £50-£100 for additional materials at Level 4, £50-£100 at Level 5 and £50-£100 at Level 6.
See also our general policy on what your tuition fees cover.
Teaching and Assessment
Below you will find how learning time and assessment types are distributed on this course. The graphs below give an indication of what you can expect through approximate percentages, taken either from the experience of previous cohorts, or based on the standard module diet where historic course data is unavailable. Changes to the division of learning time and assessment may be made in response to feedback and in accordance with our terms and conditions.
How you'll be taught
Teaching methods across all our undergraduate courses focus on active student learning through lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application. Learning typically falls into three broad categories:
- Scheduled hours: examples include lectures, seminars, practical classes, workshops, supervised time in a studio
- Placement: placement hours normally include placement opportunities, but may also include live projects or virtual activity involving employers
- Independent study: non-scheduled time in which students are expected to study independently. This may include preparation for scheduled sessions, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks, or revision
How you'll be assessed
Our undergraduate courses include a wide variety of assessments.
Assessments typically fall into three broad categories:
- Practical: examples include presentations, videos, podcasts, lab work, creating artefacts
- Written exams: end of semester exams
- Coursework: examples include essays, reports, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation
Data from the academic year 2023/24
Supporting you
Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.
- Study support — workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
- Personal tutors — support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
- Student advice team — provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
- Extra-curricular activities — volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more
Course location
With state-of-the-art science and psychology labs and refurbished computer suites, our Cavendish Campus offers our science and technology students a range of learning spaces that are both dynamic and inspiring,
Located in central London, our Cavendish Campus is just a five-minute walk from Oxford Street and Tottenham Court Road.
For more details, visit our Cavendish Campus page.
Contact us
Call our dedicated team on:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65511
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
More information
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