Biochemistry BSc Honours University of Westminster

Wednesday 7th June 2023 - On campus - 5:30-7PM (BST)

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. This involves examining the structure and function of molecules found in living systems, as well as experimental investigations of the properties of biological systems ranging in complexity from cell extracts to whole organisms, and elucidating the roles of specific genes in the cells in which they are expressed.

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.

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

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 get 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.

Professional accreditation

The Biochemistry BSc Honours is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology. Graduates from this accredited programme benefit from associate membership of the Royal Society of Biology, which opens up networks at a crucial time when applying for jobs and provides a foundation from which to apply for CBiol (Chartered Biologist).

• 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.

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 in this course.

Year 1

Subjects of study include:

• Applications of Biological Sciences
• Biochemistry
• Biological Chemistry
• Cell Biology
• Fundamentals of Pharmacology
• Human Physiology
• Professional Development in Science (PRoDS)
• Science: History Philosophy and Practice

Credit Level 4

Year 2

Subjects of study include:

• Bioinformatics
• Contemporary Global Challenges in Biology
• Experimental and Therapeutic Pharmacology
• Exploring the Microbial World
• Genetics in Medicine
• Human Parasitology
• Medical Physiology
• Metabolic Biochemistry
• Molecular and Cellular Therapeutics
• Molecular Biology and Genetics
• Neuroscience
• Proteins and Enzymes
• Research Methods

Credit Level 5

Placement Year

Professional experience or study abroad year

Between Years 2 and 3, you’ll have the opportunity to undertake a professional placement year in the industry. Completing the placement year will lead to the final award of 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 of Bachelor of Science with Honours – Biochemistry with International Experience.

Year 3

Subjects of study include:

• Advanced Physiology and Pharmacology
• Applied Biotechnology
• Cancer Biology
• Designing a Sustainable World
• Drug Discovery: Bench to Bedside
• Final Year Project in Life Sciences
• Gene Editing and Genomics
• Global Ethics
• Life: Origins and Evolution
• Pharmaceutical Drug Design and Development

Credit Level 6

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 a 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.