Develop an understanding of the fundamental principles of biochemistry. Explore the interface between biology and chemistry on a degree which combines teaching with extensive practical work in state-of-the-art facilities.
Discover how chemical processes are regulated. Explore the interface between biology and chemistry through a combination of teaching and extensive practical work. Build your skills as a research scientist on this BSc (Hons) Biochemistry degree.
Practical experiences in our state-of-the-art laboratories, developing skills that are widely used in the industry, will give you a strong grounding for future employment. They will develop your logic, as well as your organisational skills, while ensuring that you work productively both within a group or as an individual.
You can tailor the degree to your interests through a number of optional modules, as well as undertake a significant research project during your final year. This will investigate a previously unanswered question and will allow you to fully exercise your skills, knowledge and scientific curiosity.
Year 1 enables you to build a strong foundation in cell biology, organic chemistry and genetics. You will also be introduced to the research process in our Biology in Practice module. This will involve carrying out your first research project as part of a field trip. Optional modules provide an opportunity to study biodiversity, ecology, human anatomy and physiology or a language.
Biology in Practice looks at the nature of biological enquiry, the ways that biological knowledge develops, and the contribution biology makes to society. Part of this module will be delivered during a field trip (costs included in fees).
Module code: SCI1107
Credits: 20
Chemistry for Biologists
Chemistry for Biologists introduces the basics of chemistry, involving clear and lucid explanations of chemical concepts with a coherent problem solving approach. Building your understanding of the periodic table, atomic and molecular structures, pH, solutions, chemical reactions, model buildings and practical skills are the core elements of this module. The aim is to provide you with a toolkit of knowledge and practical skills within chemistry and linking to wider concepts within biological and physical sciences. Appropriate mathematical knowledge will be embedded throughout the module.
Module code: SCI1115
Credits: 20
Genetics and Evolution
Genetics and Evolution introduces the genetic and environmental control of an individual’s characteristics. The module outlines how variation at the DNA and chromosomal level leads to variation in the phenotype and genotype and the potential consequences of this variation including speciation. Taking a largely population genetics approach, you will study mutation, genotypic and phenotypic variation, meiosis, Mendelian inheritance, phylogeny and speciation.
Module code: SCI1116
Credits: 20
Introduction to Cell Biology
Introduction to Cell Biology focuses on the cell is the basic biological unit. Using a range of activities, you will examine the molecular components that determine the structure, biochemical nature and physiology of different cells. This will then enable you to appreciate the significance of a range of environmental influences. Practical activities, including a number of core biological exercises, will be used to reinforce these aspects and equip you with skills and confidence in scientific laboratory techniques. The aim is to equip you with an appreciation of scientific method and enhance your understanding of what constitutes a valid scientific investigation.
Anatomy and Physiology focuses on developing your knowledge of the structure and function of the human body. The module will equip you with an understanding of the inter-relationship between the systems of the body in the context of human health and disease. There will be a considerable emphasis on laboratory-based activities, including molecular techniques and practical physiological investigations.
Module code: SCI1118
Credits: 20
Biodiversity
Biodiversity provides an overview of the diversity of life, the major taxonomical groups and their phylogenetic relationship. Sub-divided into distinctive microbial (including viral, bacterial and archaeal), plant, fungal, and animal sections, the module covers key findings on the definition, the origin, and the evolution of life. You will develop a range of subject-specific and transferable skills to enhance your employability, including microscopy and slide preparation, as well as information retrieval.
Module code: SCI1113
Credits: 20
Ecology
Ecology introduces concepts fundamental to populations and communities using examples from across habitats and ecosystems. You will learn the basic skills required for employment and further ecological study including plant and animal identification, field surveying, microscopy, safe laboratory and field practice, and, data handling. Half and full-day field trips include sampling animals and plants to develop concepts such as energetics, food webs, limiting factors and ecosystem functioning. You will gain an appreciation of the application of the subject to environmental, medical and resource issues in real-world scenarios. By undertaking group work, such as a poster presentation, you will learn how to communicate scientific ideas to a non-specialised audience, while through reporting on field experiments you will learn how to handle and interpret data.
Module code: SCI1112
Credits: 20
Language 1
Language 1 is ideal if you want to learn a new language, or further develop your current language skills, as an integrated part of this degree. You can study French, German, Arabic, Italian, Mandarin, Japanese or Spanish (subject to minimum numbers for your preferred language). Delivered at the Edge Hill Language Centre, the module will be taught in an interactive, communicative manner, using authentic materials in the target language. Emphasis will be placed on all four areas of reading, writing, speaking and listening. You will play an active role in the weekly two-hour classes, engaging in role-plays, short conversations, videos, authentic texts and listening materials. You will also be encouraged to reflect on your own learning needs. On enrolment to the module, you will complete a language induction form and be placed into a language level group appropriate for your prior knowledge of your chosen language. Please note, while we will endeavour to accommodate varying language levels per module, this is not always possible. While you can join the module with some prior experience of your target language, you will not be able to study a language you are already fluent or proficient in.
Module code: TLC1010
Credits: 20
Organic Chemistry
Organic Chemistry will use the functional group approach to classify organic substances and to understand their use in a wider context of applied chemistry. The overall module aim is to provide you with learning opportunities to gain knowledge, understanding and practical techniques in carbon-based chemical compounds. These constitute vital foundation knowledge and skills for a biochemistry degree.
Module code: SCI1119
Credits: 20
Year 2 develops your understanding of specific fields of biochemistry, including metabolism, kinetics and the techniques used in biochemistry. Optional module choices provide the opportunity to study disease, immunology, nutrition and molecular genetics. Advanced research skills will also be developed as part of a group project. On completion of Year 2, you will also have the option of undertaking a 12-month placement abroad.
Research Methods in Biology develops essential biological research methods and data analysis skills, providing a sound base for a future dissertation. The module begins with sessions on experimental design and statistical analysis, working with varied types of data, and culminates with the design and implementation of a one-week research project.
Module code: SCI2308
Credits: 20
Reaction Kinetics
Reaction Kinetics underpins the knowledge to quantify the rate of chemical reactions. Learning opportunities will provide the breadth of conceptual understanding in the rates and orders of chemical reactions, as well factors affecting these reaction rates. Relevant theories in physical and biological sciences will be used to enhance the understanding of chemical reactions.
Module code: SCI2322
Credits: 20
Techniques in Biochemistry
Techniques in Biochemistry provides concise and clear explanations of the experimental techniques used in the complex biochemistry relevant to human health and disease. Some of the techniques included in this module will provide learning opportunities on biochemical tests, chromatography (chemical separation), enzyme linked immunofluorescence assays (ELISAs), gel electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, gene cloning, PCR and the blotting of proteins nucleic acids.
Module code: SCI2323
Credits: 20
Biochemistry and Metabolism
Biochemistry and Metabolism enhance your understanding of several advanced concepts in the field of life sciences. The module provides a global perspective on biomolecules, the different types of anabolic and catabolic pathways, as well as basic concepts in enzymology and eukaryotic and prokaryotic cellular energetics. In addition to the theoretical aspects of the module, you will develop a range of transferable and subject specific skills, such as basic laboratorial techniques, recording and analysis of experimental data, information retrieval and research, synthesis capabilities, and presenting scientific information to both specialised and non-specialised audiences.
Nutrition develops your understanding of the properties of food constituents. The acquisition of food and the anatomy of the digestive system will be investigated. You will gain an appreciation of the effects of nutrient deficiency and excess on the human body, as well as disease and disorders of the digestive process.
Module code: SCI2324
Credits: 20
Molecular Genetics
Molecular Genetics provides an understanding of several aspects of the regulation of gene expression both in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. The module is essential preparation for studying more advanced topics in the fields of genetics and biotechnology. You will explore and acquire practical skills in molecular techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), gene expression monitoring and genome editing by cloning. Basic concepts in bioinformatics will be introduced and you will gain hands-on experience of essential web-based tools and software for handling, analysing and interpreting molecular data.
Module code: SCI2332
Credits: 20
Introduction to Biotechnology
Introduction to Biotechnology provides a basic understanding of the principles of biotechnology and its practical applications. You will be introduced to the advances in biotechnological applications and their importance in a wide range of disciplines including agriculture, industry and medicine. The limitations of biotechnological applications will also be considered.
Module code: SCI2335
Credits: 20
Plant Form and Physiology
Plant Form and Physiology provides you with an understanding of plant structure and physiology. You learn about basic leaf, root and stem structures, biochemical processes (for example, photosynthesis and water relations) and organism signalling. The module will also equip you with laboratory skills including microscopy, scanning electron microscopes (SEM), gas-analysis, porometry and thermal imagery.
Module code: SCI2338
Credits: 20
Immunology and Infectious Diseases
Immunology and Infectious Diseases recognises that humans live in an environment with a baffling array of infectious agents. These are of diverse composition, shape and size and seek to use the human body as a rich shelter to propagate their own genes. The effects of this are limited, however, by a series of defence mechanisms, whose action provides the basis of immunology. This module examines our defence mechanisms that lead to immunity. It also examines a number of infectious diseases and assesses how they influence normal physiology and impair bodily functions. You will consider both external factors, such as invading organisms, as well as internal dysfunctions, such as autoimmune diseases, and environmental factors.
Module code: SCI2344
Credits: 20
Language 2
Language 2 is ideal if you want to learn a new language, or further develop your current language skills, as an integrated part of this degree. You can study French, German, Arabic, Italian, Mandarin, Japanese or Spanish (subject to minimum numbers for your preferred language). Delivered at the Edge Hill Language Centre, the module will be taught in an interactive, communicative manner, using authentic materials in the target language. Emphasis will be placed on all four areas of reading, writing, speaking and listening. You will play an active role in the weekly two-hour classes, engaging in role-plays, short conversations, videos, authentic texts and listening materials. You will also be encouraged to reflect on your own learning needs. On enrolment to the module, you will complete a language induction form and be placed into a language level group appropriate for your prior knowledge of your chosen language. Please note, while we will endeavour to accommodate varying language levels per module, this is not always possible. While you can join the module with some prior experience of your target language, you will not be able to study a language you are already fluent or proficient in.
Module code: TLC2000
Credits: 20
Year 3 focuses on areas such as clinical biochemistry or plant and environmental biochemistry. You will undertake a piece of individual research in the form of a Biochemistry Research Project. This will enable you to apply the range of planning, execution and reporting skills developed in your first and second year. Breadth to your studies will come through optional modules in Bioinformatics and Genomics, Applications of Biotechnology and Pathology.
Please note that whilst you must study one of either SCI3342 or SCI3343 as a compulsory module, the module that you don’t select can still be chosen as one of the three optional module choices below. You will not be able to study the same module twice.
A research project is widely regarded as the pinnacle of undergraduate academic achievement. The Biochemistry Research Project develops further understanding of the concepts, theories and skills acquired during earlier studies on the programme by utilising a topic of the your own choosing. Through the research project experience you will have the opportunity to develop a range of transferable skills in the planning, execution, and reporting of a bespoke research project. This will provide you with the opportunity to demonstrate an ability to work independently and effectively.
Clinical Biochemistry introduces you to the concepts of clinical biochemical analyses of body fluids and other biological material aiding the diagnostic, therapy, and healing processes of patients at their point of care. You will acquire skills required to work in a diagnostic or industrial settings.
Module code: SCI3342
Credits: 20
Plant Biochemistry
Plant Biochemistry will provide learning opportunities on the biochemical interactions between plants and the environment. A breadth of knowledge will be gained through the understanding of plant adaptations to soil pollutants as well as the synthesis and effects of plant toxins. Techniques used to isolate phytochemicals from plant tissue will enhance your knowledge and competence in this field.
Advanced Tissue Applications provides an in-depth understanding of the use of different cell and tissue-based applications in research, medical diagnostics and at the lab-clinic interface. You will obtain a wide perspective of the processing and analysis of protein-derived samples, including human and animal cells and tissue.
Module code: SCI3327
Credits: 20
Applications of Biotechnology
Applications of Biotechnology provides you with an advanced understanding of the applications of biotechnology within various industries including food, medicine, environmental management and agriculture. The module will focus on the product development process within these different industries, from research and development, through to large scale production. Relevant legal issues will also be considered.
Module code: SCI3328
Credits: 20
Applications of Genetics
Applications of Genetics explores the cutting-edge advances in molecular technologies including gene expression quantification, next generation sequencing and genome editing. You will learn about the latest developments and novel applications in this exciting field through exploring the current primary literature. You will also generate and interpret your own molecular data through a series of practical sessions. The module covers a number of important fields including medicine, disease diagnostics and therapy, population genetics, biotechnology and drug discovery.
Module code: SCI3014
Credits: 20
Clinical Biochemistry
Clinical Biochemistry introduces you to the concepts of clinical biochemical analyses of body fluids and other biological material aiding the diagnostic, therapy, and healing processes of patients at their point of care. You will acquire skills required to work in a diagnostic or industrial settings.
Module code: SCI3342
Credits: 20
Genomics and Bioinformatics
Genomics and Bioinformatics centres on how the combination of sequencing and increased computational power has led to a revolution in the way genetic information is utilised and applied. From a human perspective, the sequencing of entire genomes will allow more precise diagnosis and intimations of risk, with attendant tailored treatments. Beyond humans the complex interplay between genome, epigenetic and life history is starting to be unravelled. This module takes you to the leading edge of the discipline and to the forefront of conservation and medicine.
Module code: SCI3015
Credits: 20
Language 3
Language 3 enables you to build on and develop your previous language knowledge in French, German, Arabic, Italian, Mandarin or Spanish. You must have either studied the prior language module in the previous year or be able to demonstrate equivalent knowledge of your target language (though you will not be able to study a language you are already fluent or proficient in). The language levels available will be determined by the continuation of corresponding groups from the previous language module. You will gain the language skills necessary to become a more proficient user of the language. Classes will be taught in an interactive and communicative manner using authentic materials to promote meaningful communication. They will be conducted in the target language as much as possible. Emphasis will be on speaking and listening, with appropriate attention also being paid to other communication skills. Other work will include a variety of tasks which may be completed in the Language Centre.
Module code: TLC3000
Credits: 20
Medical Microbiology
Medical Microbiology recognises that humans live in an environment with a baffling array of infectious agents. These are of diverse composition, shape and size and seek to use the human body as a rich shelter to propagate their own genes. The module will provide an overview of medical microbiology including bacteriology, virology, mycology and parasitology. The relationship between microbes and humans both in health and disease will be investigated. You will gain an understanding of the normal human microbiota and situations where they may become pathogenic. In addition, you will be introduced to all pathogenic microorganisms that have the potential to cause human diseases including bacterial, viral and fungal diseases. The module will look at diseases of the urinogenital system, respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, skin, blood and brain, while also equipping you with an understanding of the diagnosis, pathogenesis and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases.
Module code: SCI3359
Credits: 20
Pathology
Pathology details the fundamental cellular processes that lead to the development of disease. The module also explores how these processes relate to dysfunction within tissues and organs and ultimately the presentation of typical pathological phenotypes and patient symptoms. Diseases with genetic origins (such as congenital ichthyosis) and environmental origins (such as lung disease) will be considered, as will the interactions between the two (as in cardiovascular disease). There is a significant emphasis on delivering career-relevant laboratory skills used in the diagnosis of disease, particularly histological approaches as well as molecular techniques. Real-life case studies are considered throughout each topic, helping you to gain confidence in the identification of common disease traits through regular diagnostic lab simulations in class.
Module code: SCI3316
Credits: 20
Pharmacology
Pharmacology details the development, application and action of drugs on the human system through a combination of practical and theoretical work.
Module code: SCI3321
Credits: 20
Plant Biochemistry
Plant Biochemistry will provide learning opportunities on the biochemical interactions between plants and the environment. A breadth of knowledge will be gained through the understanding of plant adaptations to soil pollutants as well as the synthesis and effects of plant toxins. Techniques used to isolate phytochemicals from plant tissue will enhance your knowledge and competence in this field.
Module code: SCI3343
Credits: 20
Plants and People
Plants and People provides you with a comprehensive understanding of the importance of plants to human wellbeing in economic and broader cultural settings. The module equips you with knowledge of the importance of plants in terms of human utility and less easily quantified areas such as aesthetic, symbolic and general wellbeing. You will learn about the manipulation of plants through traditional and novel methods and develop a deeper appreciation of their importance to conservation. You will also study practical methods of ex-situ plant conservation, breeding and biotechnology including micropropagation, in addition to developing the ability to analyse data relating to ethnobotany and ecosystem services.
Module code: SCI3336
Credits: 20
Where your course includes optional modules, these are to provide an element of choice within the course curriculum. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by timetabling requirements. Some restrictions on optional module choice or combinations of optional modules may apply.
How you'll study
You will study via a combination of face-to-face lectures, practical sessions and tutorials, with students typically in the department most days of the week. Field work will be available depending on the optional modules that you choose. In addition to the taught sessions, you will be expected to hone your skills using the excellent departmental facilities in your own time.
Timetables for your first week are normally available at the end of August prior to enrolment in September. You can expect to receive your timetable for the rest of the academic year during your first week. Please note that while we make every effort to ensure that timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled teaching can take place on any day of the week. Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities.
How you'll be assessed
Modules are assessed by a mixture of coursework and examinations tailored to suit the subject area of each module. A wide range of coursework is employed, including practical write-ups, essays, laboratory logbooks and biochemistry animations.
Who will be teaching you
Edge Hill University has over 30 years’ experience in delivering biology degrees and has a wealth of experienced tutors, technical staff and field and laboratory equipment to support the study of biochemistry. The Biology department is friendly and approachable and of a size that enables us to know our students personally.
Our experienced and knowledgeable staff take pride in the quality of their teaching. Their research activity means they keep up to date with current developments in their area of interest and pass knowledge onto their students. Visiting speakers also assist in the delivery of the degree, often presenting unique or novel aspects of subjects.
Entry criteria
Entry requirements
Typical offer 112-120 UCAS Tariff points. You will also need GCSE Mathematics and English Language at Grade C or Grade 4 (or equivalent).
Example offers
Qualification
Requirement
A Level
BBC-BBB.
BTEC Extended Diploma (or combination of BTEC QCF qualifications)
Distinction, Merit, Merit (DMM).
T Level
Overall grade of Merit.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
We are happy to accept IB qualifications which achieve the required number of UCAS Tariff points.
Access to Higher Education Diploma
45 credits at Level 3, for example 15 credits at Distinction and 30 credits at Merit or 24 credits at Distinction and 21 credits at Merit. The required total can be attained from various credit combinations.
Please note, the above examples may differ from actual offers made. A combination of A Level and BTEC awards may also be accepted.
If you have a minimum of two A Levels (or equivalent), there is no maximum number of qualifications that we will accept UCAS points from. This includes additional qualifications such as Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), AS Levels that haven't been continued to A Level, and General Studies AS or A Level awards.
English language requirements
International students require IELTS 6.0, with a score no lower than 5.5 in each individual component, or an equivalent English language qualification.
If your current level of English is half a band, one band, or one-and-a-half bands lower, either overall or in one or two elements, you may want to consider our Pre-Sessional English course.
Should you accept an offer of a place to study with us and formally enrol as a student, you will be subject to the provisions of the regulations, rules, codes, conditions and policies which apply to our students. These are available at www.edgehill.ac.uk/studentterms.
Our BioSciences building incorporates impressive, modern laboratories, offering exciting and highly relevant practical experience in some of the best equipped facilities in the country. Resources include fluorescence and scanning electron microscopes, DNA extraction and analysis equipment, and climate controlled insectaries.
A number of the best nature reserves in the country are in close proximity to the campus. You will be taught within a short travelling distance of impressive field sites such as one of the finest saltmarsh and dune systems in Europe, restored mires of international importance, hay meadows and limestone woodlands. The University also has extensive grounds including meadows which serve as a useful area for demonstrating sampling techniques.
The University may administer a small inflationary rise in tuition fees, in line with Government policy, in subsequent academic years as you progress through the course.
EU/EEA and Swiss students who have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, as well as Irish nationals, may be eligible for the UK tuition fee rate.
Financial support
Subject to eligibility, UK students joining this course can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan from the Government to cover the full cost of tuition fees. UK students enrolling on the course may also be eligible to apply for additional funding to help with living costs.
Scholarships
We offer a range of scholarships, which celebrate the determination, commitment and achievement of our students. Many of our scholarships are awarded automatically. There are some however, where you will need to be involved in an application or nomination process. To find out more about our scholarships and check your eligibility, please visit our dedicated scholarships pages.
Money Matters
Please view the relevant Money Matters guide for comprehensive information about the financial support available to eligible UK students.
EU/EEA and Swiss students who have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme may be eligible to apply for financial support. Irish nationals can ordinarily apply to Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI).
If you are an EU student who does not have settled or pre-settled status, or are an international student from a non-EU country, please see our international student finance pages.
Your future career
Gradates in biochemistry are highly sought after in various industries. You’ll be well equipped for a career in areas such as pharmaceutical or biotechnology companies. Chemical engineering, food technology or health are also popular destinations. Research, either within universities or science institutes, is also a common route. Beyond the subject itself, you’ll have developed the skills to graduate as an articulate, logical, numerate, strong communicator. These are the skills required for careers in the industry as well as for managers or in education.
Course changes
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this information, however our courses are subject to ongoing review and development. Changing circumstances may necessitate alteration to, or the cancellation of, courses.
Changes may be necessary to comply with the requirements of professional bodies, revisions to subject benchmarks statements, to keep courses updated and contemporary, or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right to make variations if we consider such action to be necessary or in the best interests of students.
Track changes to this course
Assessment method - 3 April 2024
Assessment method changed on SCI2344 Immunology and Infectious Diseases from 60% Exam, 40% Coursework to 50% Exam, 50% Coursework.
Our BioSciences building incorporates impressive, modern laboratories, offering exciting and highly relevant practical experience in some of the best equipped facilities in the country. Resources include fluorescence and scanning electron microscopes, DNA extraction and analysis equipment, and climate controlled insectaries.
