If you have a natural curiosity for science and a proven understanding of biology and chemistry, coupled with a desire to learn how science can be exploited for the benefit of mankind, then you have a fascinating career ahead of you.
Introduction
You’ll study a broad range of tailored modules including biomolecular structure and function, metabolism and bioenergetics, and molecular cell biology, with the opportunity to specialise and carry out your own research-based project.
We also offer support for making career choices right from the beginning and you will have the opportunity to consider potential career pathways within and outside the broad field of biochemistry.
You’ll learn and develop those important transferable skills in communication, team working, project management and computing with practical sessions and group work.
What you'll learn
Analyse biochemical data and apply appropriate statistics
Apply bioinformatics and computational biology tools to molecules of biochemical interest
Apply biochemical knowledge in fundamental and clinical settings
Understand how biochemistry underpins diverse biology, from bacteria to plants to humans
Become literate in finding, interpreting, evaluating and managing information
Communicate ideas effectively to a variety of audiences
Work independently and collaboratively
Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills
Use lab equipment correctly and safely
Course content
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Year one
In this first year, you’ll gain an understanding of core concepts of biology and biochemistry, as well as the fundamental principles of immunity, infection, and therapy. You will study how organisms develop and function and learn about biological challenges that affect the global environment. You will also develop bioinformatics and practical skills, and you will discover how to utilise quantitative skills.
COMPULSORY MODULES
Biology core concepts, principles, and fundamentals BIOS101
Development, function, immunity, infection, and therapeutics BIOS102
Introductory Practical Skills for Life Sciences BIOS103
From Individuals to Ecosystem BIOS104
Study and Communication Skills Tutorials BIOS105
Applied Practical Research Skills for Life Sciences BIOS106
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Year two
In your second year you’ll expand your range of knowledge, building essential research skills in experimental design and analysis. You will also hone professional skills, preparing you for a career within or outside the broad field of biochemistry. You will study biochemical techniques, cell signalling, biochemical pathways, macromolecular structure and genetics. In addition, you will have optional modules enabling you to follow your interest in pharmacology, health and disease, or physiology.
COMPULSORY MODULES
Genetics, Microbiology & Infection BIOS201
Intermediary Practical Research Skills for Life Sciences BIOS203
Practical Skills in Biomolecular and Drug Interactions BIOS204
Academic & professional skills tutorials BIOS205
The Cellular Basis of Health & Disease BIOS209
Metabolism BIOS212
Chemistry for Life Sciences BIOS215
OPTIONAL MODULES (CHOOSE ONE)
Cellular and Systems Physiology BIOS214
Drug Discovery & Development BIOS216
Molecular Microbiology & Therapeutics BIOS218
Further Chemistry for Life Sciences CHEM038
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Year three
Year three will provide an unparalleled opportunity for you to learn at the cutting edge of biochemistry research and be taught by world-leading academics in subjects allied to multi-‘omics, molecular systems biology, protein structure and function and cell biology in health and disease. You will also develop advanced scientific skills and you will have the opportunity to take a physical or virtual placement. Central to this year is the research project where you will plan and execute your own research, analyse and critically evaluate data and communicate your research findings in your chosen specialisation.
COMPULSORY MODULES
Research Project BIOS301
Introduction to the World of Work BIOS302
Research Methods BIOS303
Applied Biochemistry BIOS306
Molecular Systems Biology BIOS309
Structural Biology BIOS311
How do cells make decisions? BIOS331
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
How you'll learn
You’ll learn through a balanced mix of lectures, workshops, seminars and tutorials as well as hands-on, practical laboratory sessions, working individually and in small groups.
How you're assessed
Assessed work includes essays, presentations, group work, digital communications, qualitative and experimental reports and formal examinations with results from years two and three contributing to your final degree classification.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
Course options
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
Support for students with differing needs from the Disability advice and guidance team. They can identify and recommend appropriate support provisions for you.
As a Life Sciences graduate from the University of Liverpool, you will have an excellent set of career options ahead of you.
Typical types of roles/routes our graduates have gone on include:
Postgraduate study: (MBiolSci, MSc, MRes, MPhil or PhD)
Public sector – research institutes, government departments, the National Health Service, forensic science and the Environment Agency.
Commercial sectors – pharmaceutical, food, biotechnology, water and agriculture industries.
Journalists and information/liaison officers – by developments in molecular biology and biotechnology.
Teaching profession by taking a postgraduate qualification (PGCE).
Routes to postgraduate Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Science.
Recent employers and sectors:
Pharmaceutical sector: Eli-Lilly, AstraZeneca, Glaxo SmithKline, NHS, Red X Pharma;
Tourism/Conservation sector: Blue Planet Aquarium, Chester Zoo, RSPCA;
Government/Legal sector: Crown Prosecution Service, The Environment Agency, Public Health England, Home Affairs, Ministry of Defence, Security and International Development;
Media/Entertainment Sector: BBC;
Corporate and Utilities sector: United Utilities, Vodafone, Unilever.
4 in 5 life sciences students find their main activity after graduation meaningful.
Graduate Outcomes, 2018-19.
Meet our alumni
Hear what graduates say about their career progression and life after university.
Victoria is graduated from our BSc Chemistry with a year in industry degree in 2020. She received an offer to work as a Global Operations Graduate Associate at AstraZeneca.
Fizah is a graduate from 2018 who completed a degree in chemistry, nonetheless has started a graduate career in commercial at Johnson Matthey, and has gone on to be appointed Strategy Execution Analyst.
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This includes the costs associated with placements or internships, and the optional field course in Uganda.
Applicants with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) are eligible for a reduction in grade requirements.
For this course, the offer is BBB with
A
in the EPQ.
You may automatically qualify for reduced entry requirements through our contextual offers scheme.
If you don't meet the entry requirements, you may be able to complete a foundation year which would allow you to progress to this course.
For applicants from England: Where a science has been taken at A level (Chemistry, Biology or Physics), a pass in the Science practical of each subject will be required.
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma
D*DD in Applied Science with a selection of preferred units in Biology and Chemistry, to include Distinction in Units 1 and 5 (Principles and Applications of Science I and II).
For previous BTEC (QCF) qualification:
D*DD in Applied Science with a selection of preferred units in Biology and Chemistry, with at least 120 Level 3 credits at Distinction.
Please note alternative BTEC subjects are not acceptable for this programme.
33 including 6/5 at higher level in Biology/Chemistry
Irish Leaving Certificate
H1, H2, H2, H2, H3, H3 including grade H2 in both of Higher Level Biology and Higher Level Chemistry.
Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher
Not accepted without Advanced Highers at grades ABB
Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced
Accepted at grade B as equivalent to a third non-science A level at grade B.
Access
45 Level 3 credits in graded units in a relevant Diploma, including 30 at Distinction and a further 15 with at least Merit.
15 Distinctions are required in each of Biology and Chemistry.
GCSE Mathematics and English grade C/4 also required.
International qualifications
Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course.
Alternative entry requirements
If your qualification isn't listed here, or you're taking a combination of qualifications, contact us for advice
