Introduction
Biochemistry offers an understanding of the biological and chemical processes that allow life to thrive, giving us the tools we need to solve key challenges in cell biology, pathology, pharmacology, physiology, and genetics.
Advances in the field have revolutionised our knowledge of how biochemistry works and the mechanisms that underpin a wide range of cellular processes. This enables us to respond to human health problems and diseases by rationally designing new strategies and drugs as treatments.
Our BSc (Hons) Biochemistry degree takes a research-centered approach to teaching and learning, providing the opportunity to work closely with academics on collaborative research projects. The course examines the chemistry of life at a molecular level and reflects the University’s expertise in pharmacology, biomedical science, biology, and biotechnology. Students have the opportunity to develop skills in practical laboratory techniques, data interpretation, critical analysis, computational skills allied to biochemistry, and scientific writing.
There is an optional overseas field trip available in the final year. This provides the opportunity to study and test biological phenomena in their natural environment. Further details on the Overseas Field Course, including costs, can be found in the Features section.
How You Study
This programme introduces students to a range of topics, enabling them to widen their knowledge of biochemistry across a range of allied subjects. These include molecular biology, immunology, pharmacology, and biotechnology. The degree offers optional modules to allow students greater choice in their academic studies. Modules have been developed to cover topics relevant to current or developing fields allied to the life sciences.
During the first year, students can study a breadth of core topics, including biochemistry, physiology, genetics, and cell biology.
The second year allows students to add specialism to their degree. Students can study molecular biology, applications of biochemistry in clinical situations, and detailed analysis of biomolecules and enzymology. Optional topics include pharmacology, immunology, and human disease.
In the final year, students undertake an individual research project which provides the chance to develop investigation skills, in addition to studying key themes such as biotechnology, microbial biochemistry, protein structure and function, and clinical biochemistry.
Contact Hours
Contact hours vary by course and can take many forms, including lectures, seminars, and workshops. A full-time undergraduate student should expect to undertake a minimum of 37 hours of study each week during term-time, supplementing contact hours with independent study. This is an important aspect of university-level education. As a general rule, you will be expected to spend two to three hours working independently for every hour in class.
Methods of Assessment
The way in which you will be assessed will depend on your chosen course. It may include coursework, written and practical exams, portfolio development, group work, or presentations. A full breakdown of current assessment methods can be found on the individual course pages of this website. The University of Lincoln’s policy is to ensure that staff return assessments to students promptly.
Modules
First Year
Analytical Chemistry 1: Molecular Techniques (Core)
Human Anatomy and Physiology (Core)
Introduction to Life Sciences (Core)
Medical Biochemistry (Core)
Microbial Biochemistry (Core)
Research Methods for the Life Sciences (Core)
Second Year
Biomolecules and Enzymology (Core)
Clinical Biochemistry and Diagnostics (Core)
Data Skills for the Life Sciences (Core)
Molecular Biology (Core)
Analytical Chemistry 2.2: Structural Techniques (Option)†
Fundamentals of Pharmacology & Toxicology (Option)†
Immunology (Option)†
SLS Study Abroad (Option)†
Third Year
Applied Biochemistry (Core)
Life Sciences Research Project (Core)
Protein Structure and Function (Core)
Topics in Biochemistry (Core)
21st Century Medicine (Option)†
Cancer Epidemiology and Pathology (Option)†
Genetics & Bioethics (Option)†
Introduction to Forensic Anthropology (Option)†
Overseas Field Course (Option)†
How You Are Assessed
The way students are assessed on this course may vary for each module. Examples of assessment methods that are used include coursework, such as written assignments, reports or dissertations; practical exams, such as presentations, performances or observations; and written exams, such as formal examinations or in-class tests. The weighting given to each assessment method may vary across each academic year. The University of Lincoln aims to ensure that staff return in-course assessments to students promptly.
Scholarships
For eligible undergraduate students going to university for the first time, scholarships and bursaries are available to help cover costs. The University of Lincoln offers a variety of merit-based and subject-specific bursaries and scholarships.
"The lecturers made the content easy to understand and interesting, while the practical sessions were a fantastic opportunity to see the theory learned in lectures applied in a real-life situation."
Laura Rutledge, BSc (Hons) Biochemistry
Entry Requirements 2021-22
United Kingdom
GCE Advanced Levels: BBB, to include a grade B in Biology or Chemistry.
International Baccalaureate: 30 points overall to include Higher Level grade 5 in Biology or Chemistry.
BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science*: Distinction, Distinction, Merit. *not all modules are accepted. Please contact our Admissions team for further information.
BTEC Diploma Applied Science is acceptable with other qualifications. Please contact our Admissions Team for further information (admissions@lincoln.ac.uk).
Access to Higher Education Diploma: 45 Level 3 credits with a minimum of 120 UCAS Tariff points, including 40 points from 15 credits in Biology or Chemistry.
Applicants will also need at least three GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, which must include English, Maths and Science. Equivalent Level 2 qualifications may also be considered.
International
Non-UK Qualifications:
If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages for information on equivalent qualifications.
EU and Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page.
If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-sessional English and Academic Study Skills courses.
Teaching and Learning During Covid-19
At Lincoln, Covid-19 has encouraged us to review our practices and, as a result, to take the opportunity to find new ways to enhance the student experience. We have made changes to our teaching and learning approach and to our campus, to ensure that students and staff can enjoy a safe and positive learning experience. We will continue to follow Government guidance and work closely with the local Public Health experts as the situation progresses, and adapt our teaching and learning accordingly to keep our campus as safe as possible.
Special Features
Students on this programme are able to undertake an optional overseas field trip as part of their third year. This will provide the opportunity to do research in a novel environment and to study local plants and animals. Destinations may vary, but have previously the cloud forests of Ecuador, the Mankwe Wildlife Reserve in South Africa, and Peniche in Portugal.
Students who opt to undertake a field trip overseas will be expected to cover transport costs (including flight costs). These costs will vary depending on the location of the field trip. Accommodation and meals at the field sites are fully funded by the University.
Students may be required to pay for overnight stays, local travel and food close to the destination if their flights arrive the day before the team are scheduled to meet. Students may bring personal items of clothing and travel equipment, some of which may be specialised for the environment they are traveling to, and recommended medicines and travel toiletries such as anti-malaria medication, vaccinations, insect repellent and sunscreen. These costs will depend on what you choose to bring.
Overseas Field Trips
Study Animal and Plants in the Wild
Students on this programme are able to undertake an optional overseas field trip as part of their third year, enabling them to study animals and plants in the wild.
Undertake Field Work
On each trip students are introduced to local flora and fauna, present a group project, and complete an identification test of plants, vertebrates, and invertebrates
Destinations Around the World
In recent years, students have visited the cloud forests of Ecuador, the Mankwe Wildlife Reserve in South Africa, and Peniche in Portugal.
Optional Placement Year
All full-time Biochemistry students may take an optional placement year between the second and third year of the programme. Students are expected to source their own placements but can be supported through this process. Placements provide you with the opportunity to gain work experience and a chance to hone your skills in a professional environment. When you are on an optional placement in the UK, you will be required to cover your own transport and accommodation, and meal costs.
Research-Informed
Biochemistry-related research at Lincoln includes structural and molecular biology, DNA metabolism and drug discovery. Final-year student research projects have previously included overcoming drug resistance, proteins involved in neurodegeneration, and new proteins for biofuel production.
Career Opportunities
Career paths exist in industrial, commercial, and academic research, and in development roles within the medical, food, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology industries. Graduates also go on to careers in scientific marketing and journalism or education.
