A-levels: AAB - ABB, including at least two relevant science subjects from Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Physics or Psychology. We may consider two AS-levels in place of one A-level. General Studies not accepted
EPQ with A-levels: ABB-BBB + EPQ grade B. A-level subjects to include two relevant science subjects from Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Physics or Psychology. General Studies not accepted.
GCSE: At least Grade C/4 in both English and Maths (if not held at A2/AS-level).
Access to HE Diploma: Pass Science diploma with 45 credits at level three, 30 of which must be at distinction
International Baccalaureate: Pass Diploma with 30 points to include grade 6 and 5 in at least two relevant HL science subjects from Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Physics or Psychology. Minimum of 3 in HL Maths or 4 in SL Maths, or 5 in Maths Studies required if grade C/4 not held at GCSE. Minimum of 4 in English Language required if grade C/4 not held at GCSE.
BTEC Nationals: Pass Applied Science Diploma with D*DD plus five GCSEs at B/5 or above including two relevant sciences
IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.
The basic principle of biochemistry is that the processes of living things are ultimately explicable in terms of the properties and interactions of the molecules from which they are made. Biochemists study molecular processes in all types of organisms - and how errors in these processes can cause disease.
In your first year, you will focus on understanding of the fundamental biological processes that occur in cells, including DNA and protein synthesis, as well as the metabolic reactions that sustain cells and organisms. In your second and final years you will develop a greater understanding of how molecular processes are exquisitely controlled to ensure that the right process occurs in the right location – and at the right time. This control is essential to the correct functioning of cells, and the body as a whole, and errors can lead to disastrous consequences. One example of this is in cancer formation, where genetic mutations lead to loss of control of proteins that govern when cells replicate. You will learn how our knowledge of these molecular processes is leading to breakthroughs in disease treatment, through targeting and inactivating key molecules in defective pathways.
Moreover, much of our understanding of molecules, their interactions with each other, and effective therapeutic drug design, now comes from studying molecular structures at the atomic level. Opportunities to learn how we use and generate molecular structures are embedded throughout the course and this is the focus of a final year module, which benefits from the expert knowledge of academic staff associated with the Leicester Institute of Structural and Chemical Biology.
On this course you will develop a range of skills that are valued by employers, including practical, analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as gaining experience in handling complex information. You will also develop transferable skills in time-management, meeting deadlines, giving oral presentations and working in teams to achieve a goal. By studying biochemistry alongside options in other biological sciences specialisms, you will be able to apply your knowledge across the boundaries of traditional disciplines and become a valuable and powerful asset in scientific environments and in many other walks of life.
UCAS code: C700
More Info: click here
Year 1
Modules
The Molecules of Life: An Introduction to Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (double module)
The Cell: An Introduction to Cell Biology and Microbiology (double module)
From Individuals to Populations: An Introduction to Genetics
Multicellular Organisation: An Introduction to Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience (double module)
Biodiversity and Behaviour: An Introduction to Zoology
Year 2
Core modules
Molecular Cell Biology
Research Topic
Biochemistry of Nucleic Acids
Option modules
Choose two option modules from:
Genomes
Physiology and Pharmacology
Physiology of Excitable Cells
Principles of Microbiology
Global Change Biology and Conservation
Medical Microbiology
Year in Industry or Abroad (optional)
If you want to, you can spend your third year studying abroad at one of our partner institutions or working in an industrial placement (eligibility is dependent on your academic performance in Years 1 and 2). Alternatively, you can opt to continue studying at the University and complete your degree in three years.
Final Year
Core modules
Structural Biology
Cancer Cell and Molecular Biology
Option modules
Overall, you must choose at least one module from those marked *.
Choose one option module from:
Gene Expression: Molecular Basis and Medical Relevance*
Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology*
Evolutionary Genetics
Molecular and Cellular Immunology
Human Genetics
Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience
Comparative Neurobiology
Microbial Biotechnology
Subtropical Physiology and Ecology
Then choose one pair of option modules from:
Experimental Research Project A plus Experimental Research Project B (double module)
Education Research Project A plus Education Research Project B (double module)
Field Research Project A (Operation Wallacea) plus Experimental Research Project B (double module)
Analytical Research Project (double module) plus one additional option module from the list below
Steered Research Project (double module) plus one additional option module from the list below
Finally, choose two option modules from:
Current and Future Therapeutics*
Microbial Pathogenesis and Genomics
Human and Environmental Microbiomics
Neuroscience Futures
Genes and Development
Physiology, Pharmacology and Behaviour
Cellular Physiology of the Cardiovascular System
Conservation and Ecological Genetics
Behavioural Ecology
Our 'Careers After Biological Sciences' series of lectures features Leicester graduates giving insights into their career experiences and good advice for finding jobs.
In the summer vacation between Years 2 and 3, a range of internal research placements are available in research labs, giving you the chance to develop your scientific skills.
We run bespoke bioscience careers events in the summer term each year, based on what our students tell us about their career intentions.
As a student in the School of Biological Sciences, you are welcome to attend seminars in any department, presented by national and international experts in the biosciences. This allows you to enhance your knowledge and get useful insights into current topics.
OSHC - $12276 GBP / per year
