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Course overview
2026 Master Biology, Chemistry, and Medicine with our Royal Society of Biology-accredited Biochemistry BSc degree.
Study BSc Biochemistry at the University of Birmingham
Combining hands-on training with essential skills, we ensure you excel in your career. Our specialist degree labels highlights your expertise, shaping you into a versatile professional and propel you forward with a degree that meets top employer demands.
For me, the real highlight has been the opportunity to learn from and directly engage with the academic staff here, all of whom are true experts in their fields. The knowledge they impart to us is always up-to-date and often backed up by their own research.
Here is a short overview of what you can expect during this course.
Year 1
Year 1
Dive into biochemistry's full spectrum, from organism physiology to molecular reactions and enzyme dynamics. The pivotal Chemistry module is a cornerstone of this exploration.
Year 2
Year 2
Master core biochemistry modules and select two electives to tailor your expertise in your second year. Core studies include Proteins and Enzymes, Membranes and Metabolism, and Molecular Biology with elective offer options like Medical Biosciences, Genetics, and Microbiology, empowering you to shape your future in biochemistry.
Year 3
Year 3
In your final year, lead your own research project, and gain independence as a biochemist. Enhance analytical skills through a core module and select from diverse electives to deepen your expertise. Choose from practical, literature review, or education-focused project options, each weighing heavily and building key skills for your career.
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Why study Biochemistry at Birmingham?
- 16th
in the UK
QS World University Rankings 2025
Tailor your studies with specialized modules and degree labels, while benefiting from expert academics who are active researchers in their fields.
Our Biochemistry course is unique for its flexibility and research-driven approach. Engage in research-led teaching, utilizing cutting-edge facilities like the Phenome Centre and Birmingham Advanced Light Microscopy. This dynamic program equips you with advanced skills and hands-on experience, making you a standout professional in the biochemistry landscape.
- Study Abroad: Spend your third year in France, Spain, Germany, or one of 300+ global destinations, immersing yourself in new cultures and learning from biochemistry experts.
- Professional Placement: Boost your employability with industry experience, applying your knowledge in real-world settings.
- Royal Society of Biology Accreditation: Our degree ensures you meet employer needs and stand out in the job market.
- Join BioSoc: Connect with fellow Biosciences students through team sports, events, and specialist career conferences.
Specialist Degree Labels
Our Biochemistry programmes offer you the unique chance to shape your academic journey and future career. By reflecting on the modules you’ve studied, you can choose a specialised pathway in your final year, highlighting your expertise and passion. These pathways are designed to set you apart, opening doors to exciting opportunities and propelling you toward the next stage of your career.
The following labels may be added to our Biochemistry degree programmes:
- Microbiology and Infection
- Genetics
Course delivery
At Birmingham, our course integrates groundbreaking research with dynamic teaching, offering a range of tailored options to align with your career goals and passions.
Lecture
Projects
Laboratory
Tutorial
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Innovative Lectures: Experience interactive, recorded lectures with instant polling and 'flipped' classroom techniques for deep, engaging learning. Explore topics through problem-solving and group discussions, enhanced by active online participation
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Hands-On Practical Classes: Dive into 3-hour lab sessions, working at your own pace with direct guidance from researchers. Develop vital skills and gain real-world experience, crucial for future research careers.
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Research-Driven Teaching: Benefit from cutting-edge research that informs your studies, including live projects and past experiments. Engage with world-leading biochemists and apply research findings in practical settings.
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Advanced Facilities: Utilize our award-winning virtual lab-casting and state-of-the-art labs for hands-on training. Access high-tech resources during your final-year project to hone your skills and expertise."
Support during your studies
At the University of Birmingham, we’re committed to your success with comprehensive support tailored to your needs. Here’s how we ensure you thrive:
- Personal Tutors: Receive tailored academic support and guidance from a dedicated tutor who will track your progress and help you excel.
- Wellbeing Officers: Access professional support for a range of personal and academic issues, including extensions, adjustments, and overall wellbeing.
- Student Experience Team: Maximize your university experience with research opportunities, career preparation, and social events to connect with fellow students.
Assessment methods and feedback
Our assessment methods ensure a deep understanding and practical application of biochemistry. You will experience a balanced mix of continuous assessments and end-of-year exams, with continuous assessments playing a significant role in shaping your final grade. Some modules are assessed entirely through coursework. Detailed feedback provided within three weeks helps you refine your skills and achieve steady improvement, ensuring you truly master biochemistry in practice.
Accredited by The Royal Society of Biology
This programme, accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, offers you a robust academic foundation in biology, paired with essential skills that employers demand. We ensure you're not only equipped with knowledge, but also with the experience and expertise that will make you an outstanding candidate in the competitive job market.
Module information
The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
The optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available, we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.
Each academic year consists of 120 credits, typically divided into 20-credit modules. The final year includes a 40-credit research project, providing an opportunity to engage deeply with a specialised area of your interest.
Year 1
Year 1
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Cell Biology & Physiology | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Chemistry for Biochemists I | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Discovering Biosciences Skills and Enterprise | 20 | Full Term |
| Genetics I | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Molecular Biosciences and Microbiology | 20 | Full Term |
| Physical Biochemistry | 20 | Semester 2 |
If your first language is not English and you require additional support, will be enrolled on the Academic Communication Skills for Biosciences module and will also take Essentials of Cell Biology & Physiology in place of Cell Biology & Physiology listed above.
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Communication Skills for Biosciences | 10 | Semester 1 |
| Essentials of Cell Biology & Physiology | 10 | Semester 1 |
Year 2
Year 2
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Membranes, Energy and Metabolism | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Chemistry for Biochemists - II | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Communication and Enterprise | 20 | Full Term |
| Genetic Engineering and Data Science | 20 | Full Term |
Choose 40 credits from the following:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Cell and Developmental Biology | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Genetics II | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Microbiology: Medicine, Environment, and Industry | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Proteins in Biotechnology | 29 | Semester 2 |
| Topics in Medical Biosciences | 20 | Semester 1 |
Final Year
Final Year
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Experimental design, analysis & interpretation of biochemical data | 20 | Semester 1 |
Choose 40 credits from the following project modules:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Evidence-based literature review and critical analysis informed project proposal | 40 | Full Term |
| Introduction to Teaching Biosciences in Schools with Evidence-Based Literature Review | 40 | Semester 2 |
| Practical Project | 40 | Full Term |
Choose 60 credits from the following:
Specialist Genetics Modules
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Biology | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Current developments and advances in Eukaryotic Genetics | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Eukaryotic Gene Expression | 20 | Semester 1 |
Specialist Microbiology and Infection Modules
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Arctic Microbiology | 20 | |
| Microbial Pathogenicity and Disease | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Molecular and Cellular Immunology | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Structures of Destruction: the structural biology of pathogenicity | 20 | Semester 2 |
Optional modules that contribute to EITHER the Genetics or Microbiology and Infection specialisms
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Bacterial Gene Regulation | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Omics for Biomedical Research | 20 | Semester 2 |
General Optional Modules
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Cellular Neurobiology | 20 | Semester 1 |
Teaching staff
Admission Tutor
Dr Michael Tomlinson
Admission tutor for Biosciences
Dr Mike Tomlinson's research focuses on tetraspanin membrane proteins as potential therapeutic targets for major human diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases.
Entry requirements
To secure a place at Birmingham, you'll need to meet our general entry requirements as well as those specific to your course.
- A Level
AAB To include Chemistry + 1 from Maths / Further Maths / Statistics / Biology / Physics
- IB
6,6,5 + 1 from Maths: Analysis and Approaches / Maths: Applications and Interpretation/ Statistics / Biology / Physics at Higher Level with a minimum of 32 points overall
- BTEC
BTEC Extended Diploma, Diploma and Extended Certificate are accepted, but subjects are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further guidance
Number of A levels required: 3
-
Required subjects and grades
Number of A levels required: 3
Typical offer: AAB
AAB including Chemistry + 1 from Maths / Further Maths / Statistics / Biology / Physics
General studies
We do not accept General Studies, Critical Thinking, Citizenship Studies, Applied Science, Communication and Culture, Critical Studies, Global Perspectives, Science in Society and World Development.
BTEC Qualifications
BTEC Extended Diploma, Diploma and Extended Certificate are accepted but subjects are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further guidance
Extended Project Qualification
Applicants who take the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and meet our offer criteria will be made the typical offer for the programme, plus an alternative offer, which will be one grade lower plus a grade A in the EPQ.
Deferred Entry
Deferring admission is usually not a problem but please inform the School or central Admissions. The university has a neutral attitude to gap years. You can still apply in advance for deferred entry and would be advised to do so.
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
Applicants who take the EPQ and meet our offer criteria will be made the typical offer for their programme of choice, plus an alternative offer which will be one grade lower plus a grade A in the EPQ. This offer would apply if you make Birmingham your firm choice.
Core Maths qualification
Applicants who take the Core Maths qualification and meet our offer criteria will be made the typical offer for their programme of choice, plus an alternative offer which will be one grade lower plus a grade A in Core Maths. If you are also taking A-level Maths, you will not be eligible for an alternative offer through studying Core Maths. This offer would apply if you make Birmingham your firm choice.
Am I likely to receive an offer for 2026?
Stay up-to-date with news and updates from the University of Birmingham including events, our courses and studying with us by registering your details. If you do so, you will be able to use our Offer Calculator.
Alternative Offers
Students who are eligible and complete a Pathways to Birmingham programme will receive an alternative offer, which is typically two grades below the standard offer.
Our Contextual Offer scheme
Our Contextual Offer scheme recognises the potential of students whose personal circumstances may have restricted achievement in school or college. If you are eligible to benefit from the Contextual Offer scheme, you will receive an offer which is one grade lower than the standard offer. You don’t need to apply for this – it will be assessed and applied at the point of application if you’re eligible.
- Pathways to Birmingham
BBB including Chemistry + 1 from Maths / Further Maths / Statistics / Biology / Physics
- Contextual Offer
ABB including Chemistry + 1 from Maths / Further Maths / Statistics / Biology / Physics
Fees and scholarships
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, examination and graduation, and includes membership of the Guild of Students.
- £9,790
per year for domestic (UK) students for 2026/27
*The University will charge the maximum approved tuition fee per year. If Parliament agrees on an increase in tuition fees, the University will increase fees for each year of study, normally in line with these changes and will communicate any change in the fees to you without delay. The fee for September 2026 entry is £9,790 for UK students. If you are applying for 2027 entry, you will be advised of the annual tuition fee once it is confirmed by the Government.
Undergraduate loans
To help with the cost of studies, undergraduate students from the UK can apply for student finance through the Student Loans Company. The support available is made up of a tuition fee loan and a maintenance loan which helps to cover living costs.
Scholarships, grants and bursaries
At Birmingham, we believe that financial worries should not be a barrier to accessing higher education. That’s why we offer a range of additional financial support for students through scholarships, bursaries and other awards.
Financial support for Home students
If you're a UK student and starting university in September 2026, find out more about what financial support is available to you.
Financial support for International students
We want to help you reach your full potential. Explore our wide variety of scholarships available for international students.
Application process
Whatever your journey to university looks like, we’re here to support you every step of the way. For all undergraduate courses at Birmingham, you apply online through UCAS. The UCAS website has lots of information and advice around the process.
- 14 January 2026
Application deadline for September 2026 entry. Applications close at 18:00 GMT.
View further information on how to apply for undergraduate courses, including advice for UK and overseas applicants.
Ask us a question
If you have a question about our admissions process, including how to apply, your offer and how to track your application, please speak to our team.
Career opportunities
The University of Birmingham is one of the country’s most consistently sought‑after universities by the UK’s top graduate employers, and has been for the last decade (High Fliers ‘Graduate Market in 2026’ report). Our courses are committed to your future career, and university is just the start.
- Top 2
We're consistently one of the top UK universities targeted by leading graduate employers.
(High Fliers 'Graduate Market 2026' report)
Receive one-to-one careers advice, including guidance on your job application, writing your CV and improving your interview technique.
Meet employers face-to-face at on-campus recruitment fairs and employer presentations.
I would definitely say that the highlights of university come from my placement year when I was able to independently carry out a research project then present it at a national research conference.
With a Biochemistry degree from the University of Birmingham, you’ll unlock a world of opportunities.
Our graduates are celebrated for their expertise and versatility, excelling in fields like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and environmental science. As UK's most targeted University by the country's leading graduate employers, you’ll have access to exceptional career support and be in high demand across research, industry, and more. Whether you aim for advanced degrees or exciting career paths, your future will be vibrant and full of possibilities.
Graduates from this programme have gone on to work for organisations including:
The Binding Site
University of Birmingham
GSK
Elpida Therapeutics
Thermo Fisher Scientific
King's College London
UK Health Security Agency
Amgen
AstraZeneca
Wellcome Sanger Institute
Their job roles include:
Executive Assistant
Engineer Intern
Modelling and Simulations Engineer
Design Engineer
International Student Representative
Graduate Innovation Engineer
Healthcare Assistant
Social Research Officer
Operations Director
Content Marketing Manager
Careers Network
Our aim is to make sure that success in your studies leads you on to a fulfilling career. Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offer support to help you identify your options, develop your skills and gain access to opportunities that propel you towards your career goal.
Built in Birmingham. Forged for the future.
Hear from some of our inspiring alumni who have gone on to work for leading employers such as the UK Space Agency and BBC Sport.
Student experience
Your experience studying at Birmingham will give you the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community, and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to Birmingham to study might be your first time living away from home. In our student accommodation, you can enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming and sociable surroundings.
Living in Birmingham
Our cosmopolitan city has a unique history and so much to see and do. With an ever-changing food and drink scene, a vibrant nightlife and plenty of culture, our city is more than somewhere to study.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus.
Campus life
Our beautiful campus is the place where our diverse community comes together to learn and socialise. Like a town of its own, it’s just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.
Flexible programmes to suit you
Not sure what you want to study?
Explore your options for combining subjects and shape your degree around your interests, whilst developing key skills for the world of work.
Take a virtual tour
Explore our beautiful campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.