BSc Medical Biochemistry

Program Overview

The BSc Medical Biochemistry program at the University of Birmingham unravels the molecular mechanisms of living organisms, emphasizing their relevance to health and therapeutics. Through a combination of core modules and electives, the program fosters critical thinking, experimental design, and data analysis skills. Its flexible structure allows students to tailor their degree to their career aspirations, preparing them for careers in research, education, biotechnology, and beyond.

Program Outline

BSc Medical Biochemistry - University of Birmingham

Degree Overview:

This BSc Medical Biochemistry degree explores the molecular mechanisms of living organisms, with a particular focus on disease and therapeutic interventions.

• To develop a strong foundation in chemistry, cell biology, and genetics.
• To equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in areas like data analysis, experimental design, and problem-solving.
• To foster critical thinking and analytical skills for successful careers in the life sciences and beyond.
• To offer flexibility for students to tailor their degree based on their interests and career goals.

Outline:

The Medical Biochemistry program is structured as a modular course, offering increasing flexibility in module selection as students progress.

First Year:

• All modules are compulsory.
• Key modules include:
• Fundamentals of Biochemistry
• Cell Biology and Physiology
• Genetics I
• Metabolism
• Physical Biochemistry
• Personal and Academic Skills: Communication and Data Analysis
• Personal and Academic Development

Second Year:

• Features a combination of core modules and elective modules.
• Core modules are taken by all Biochemistry students.
• Elective modules allow students to specialize in areas of interest.
• Core modules include:
• Molecular Biology and its Applications
• Proteins and Enzymes
• Membranes, Energy and Metabolism
• Chemistry for Biochemists II
• Communications and Skills in Biosciences
• Academic Development & Career Building
• Elective modules include:
• Cell and Developmental Biology
• Genetics II
• Topics in Medical Biosciences
• Microbiology: Medicine, Environment, and Industry

Final Year:

• Includes a core module focusing on analytical skills.
• The core component is the Project, which accounts for 40 credits.
• Project options include:
• Literature Review, critical analysis and project proposal
• Practical Project
• Introduction to Teaching Biosciences in Schools
• Elective modules include:
• Structures of Destruction
• Cancer Biology
• Molecular and Cellular Immunology
• Cellular Neurobiology
• Eukaryotic Gene Expression
• Omics for Biomedical Research

Assessment:

• Each module is assessed separately.
• Assessment methods include continuous assessment and end-of-year examinations.
• Feedback is provided within three weeks of each assessment.

Teaching:

• Teaching methods include lectures, practical sessions, and tutorials.
• Lecturers utilize innovative teaching techniques, including:
• Lecture recordings for review.
• Interactive elements like instant polling.
• Flipped lectures for deeper exploration of topics.
• Student interaction through discussion boards and social media.
• Practical classes are an integral part of the degree, providing essential transferable skills and experience.
• Students have access to state-of-the-art teaching laboratories and high-technology facilities.

Careers:

• Graduates are highly sought after in a diverse range of industries and employment sectors.
• Typical career paths include:
• Research
• Education
• Biotechnology
• Pharmaceutical companies
• Personalized medicine
• Environmental remediation
• Climate change research
• NHS and public sector
• Many graduates pursue postgraduate Masters or PhD degrees.
• Careers Network provides comprehensive career guidance and support, including:
• Work experience opportunities
• Mentoring
• Global internships and placements
• CV and job application support
• Personal Skills Award (PSA)

Other:

• The program is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology.
• Students have access to a comprehensive support system, including:
• Personal tutors
• Wellbeing officers
• Academic Skills Centre
• Student Experience Team
• The program has an average of 15 hours of contact time per week.
• The Collaborative Teaching Laboratory is a state-of-the-art facility designed for STEM subjects.
• The School of Biosciences is renowned for its research excellence.