Biochemistry and Human Biology - BSc Hons

Program Overview

The Biochemistry and Human Biology BSc (Hons) program at Keele University integrates the study of human biology and biochemistry, preparing graduates for careers in research, healthcare, and other fields. The program emphasizes practical skills, research methods, and critical thinking, with opportunities for independent research projects and a final year conference.

Program Outline

Biochemistry and Human Biology - BSc (Hons)

Degree Overview:

Objectives:

• Enhance knowledge and skills in biochemistry and human biology.
• Develop problem-solving, creative thinking, and research skills.
• Prepare graduates for a diverse range of careers in research, healthcare, and other fields.

Program Description:

• Integrates the study of human biology and biochemistry.
• Explores the structure and function of biological molecules, metabolic processes, core chemical concepts, and cell biology.
• Emphasizes practical skills through laboratory work in state-of-the-art facilities.
• Provides opportunities to conduct independent research projects.
• Emphasizes the development of high-level research skills in data acquisition, analysis, and interpretation.
• Includes a final year conference where students present their research findings.

Outline:

Year One:

• Compulsory modules:
• Biochemistry
• Core Practical Skills
• Molecular Cell Biology
• Physiology and Anatomy
• Fundamentals of Biology

Year Two:

• Compulsory modules:
• Gene and Protein Engineering
• Molecular, Cellular and Structural Immunology
• Practical Skills in Bioscience
• Metabolism in Health and Disease
• Cell Signalling
• Research Methods in Human Biology
• Optional modules (selection available):
• Human Genetics
• Microbes, Viruses and Parasites
• Current Topics in Biology
• Environmental Biology
• Nutrition and Energy Balance
• Learning & Memory

Year Three:

• Compulsory modules:
• Bioinformatics and Science Communication
• Optional modules (selection available):
• Structural Biology & Macromolecular Function
• Advances in Medicine
• Human Parasitology
• Applied Life Sciences Placement - ISP
• Double Applied Life Sciences Placement - ISP
• Life Sciences Double Experimental Project (with research skills assessment)
• Life Sciences Single Experimental Project (with research skills assessment) - ISP
• Professional Development in Bioscience
• Cancer Biology
• Medical Glycobiology (Level 6)
• Epidemiology
• Behavioural Neuroscience
• Tropical Biology Field Course
• Biology of Disease - ISP
• Life Sciences Dissertation
• Human Evolution
• Regeneration and Repair in the Nervous System

Assessment:

• A combination of methods including:
• Essays
• Reports
• Presentations
• Online exams
• Practical work
• Final year research project

Teaching:

• Diverse teaching approaches including:
• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Workshops
• Case-based learning
• Practical laboratory work
• Active learning environment that promotes interaction and collaboration.
• Emphasis on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Careers:

• Graduates are prepared for a range of careers in research, healthcare, and other fields.
• Potential career paths include:
• Analytical chemist
• Biotechnology/pharmaceutical industry
• Ecologist
• Environmental consultant
• Food industry and food safety
• Forensic scientist
• Healthcare and diagnostics
• Marine biologist
• Medical publishing
• Microbiologist
• Pharmaceutical sales
• Pharmacologist
• Physician associate
• Postgraduate study
• Research and development
• Science teacher
• Toxicologist
• Keele Careers and Employability team provides support with career planning, CV writing, interview skills, and job searching.

Other:

• 95% of Keele students are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduating
• The program is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology.
• The School of Life Sciences has been awarded the highest rating of gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), 2023.
• The program offers a variety of additional opportunities, including:
• Foundation year
• Placement year
• International year
• Research opportunities
• Student-led societies