MSci Biochemistry
ApplyKey facts
- UCAS Code: C720
Ranked: Top 10 for Biological Sciences (Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023)
Flexible degree: flexibility to change to other Biomolecular Science courses throughout your studies
Integrated Masters: research-led fifth year of study
Study with us
- explore the chemical processes within and related to living organisms
- use chemical knowledge and techniques to understand and solve biological problems
- our courses are underpinned by our strong research base, links with industry, the NHS and international partners
- our MSci programmes are appropriate if you're interested in academic or research-related careers
Why this course?
This course is a five-year Integrated Masters degree with entry into either Year 1 with Highers or Year 2 with Advanced Highers or A-levels.
Biochemistry is the study of how cells work at molecular level. Together with the related field of Molecular Biology, Biochemistry provides important advances into understanding the molecular basis of life, and how alteration or disruption of these molecular pathways leads to disease processes.
This Masters degree is for students who want to specialise in a single biomedical science. It’s particularly relevant if you want to pursue a research career.
In Years 1 to 4, you’ll follow the same curriculum as one of the joint Honours bioscience degrees. In Year 5, you’ll focus on developing research skills and knowledge. A significant part of this course is project-based.
What you’ll study
Years 1 & 2
Students on all the biosciences degrees study the same classes in the first two years. This means you can defer your ultimate choice of degree until the end of Year 2.
In Year 1, you’ll study classes in cells and their molecules, organisms and diseases and Bio-organic chemistry. These are all underpinned by the ‘Being a Biomolecular Scientist’ class which begins with basic laboratory skills, statistical and data analysis and presentation, report writing, health and safety and ethics.
You also choose 20 credits of elective subjects from across the University.
In Year 2, you’ll gain an introduction to each of the four disciplines: biochemistry, immunology, microbiology and pharmacology again supported by the ‘Being a Biomolecular Scientist’ class which develops various skills gained in Year 1.
Years 3 & 4
You’ll specialise in biochemistry and learn about laboratory methods and data collection and presentation.
Year 5
This year, you’ll carry out a research project and specialise in Biochemistry.
Our department holds a Silver Athena Swan award, recognising our exceptional commitment and excellence in the advancement of gender equality.
Course content
In Year 1, you’ll study classes in Cells & their Molecules, Organisms & Diseases and Bio-Organic Chemistry. These are all underpinned by the Being a Biomolecular Scientist class which begins with basic laboratory skills, statistical and data analysis and presentation, report writing, health and safety and ethics.
In Year 2, you’ll gain an introduction to each of the four disciplines (biochemistry, immunology, microbiology and pharmacology) again supported by the Being a Biomolecular Scientist class which develops various skills gained in Year 1. There’s a strong emphasis on practical laboratory skills and the development of generic skills such as scientific writing and problem-solving.
You'll also undertake a research project in Year 4 and present a dissertation of the work.
In Year 5, you'll complete a substantial laboratory-based research project and write a thesis based on your experimental data. You'll also study advanced research methods and critical analysis of scientific papers in biochemistry.
Being a Biomolecular Scientist 1
This class aims to give students:
- the foundation practical skills required for a biological biochemistry
- the foundation practical skills based around 'health and the body'
- foundation presentation skills
Cells & their molecules
The aims of this class are to:
- provide Foundation level knowledge relating to basic functions of cells
- set out principles of biological action and function that will be encountered through all four years
- expose students to the basic suite of teaching, learning and assessment paradigms used throughout their degree with particular focus on oral communication and presentation
Organisms & Disease
From this class, students will gain:
- foundation level knowledge relating to basic evolution, species diversity, development, homeostasis, and infectious disease
- principles of biological action and function that will be encountered through all four years
- learn about methods of teaching, learning and assessment used throughout the degree, with particular focus on finding, citing and using information, and teamwork
Bio-Organic Chemistry
The aims of this class are to:
- understand nucleotide/nucleic acid molecular structure, stereochemistry and conformation as the foundation of nucleic acid chemical and biological potential
- understand amino acid/protein molecular structure, stereochemistry and conformation as the foundation of protein chemical and biological potential
- understand monosaccharide/polysaccharide molecular structure, stereochemistry and conformation as the foundation of carbohydrate chemical and biological potential
- understand the chemistry, stereochemistry and biological roles of polyketide/polyisoprene natural products and their biosynthetic origins
Being a Biomolecular Scientist 2
The aims of this class are to:
- give students the fundamental practical skills required for a biochemist
- give students the fundamental practical skills required for an immunologist
- give students the fundamental practical skills required for a microbiologist
- give students the fundamental practical skills required for a pharmacologist
- give students fundamental skills in presentation and teamwork
Introduction to Biochemistry
The aims of this class are:
- to understand gene structure and function and the regulation of gene expression
- to understand how human genetic variation arises and its uses in medicine and forensics
- to understand the basic structure and function of proteins, lipids and carbohydrates
- to appreciate the key metabolic pathways in the absorptive and post-absorptive states
- to understand the pathways involved in cell growth and cell death
Introduction to Immunology
By studying this class, students will be able to demonstrate:
- an understanding of how immune cells recognise antigens
- an understanding of key concepts in induction of acquired immunity
- an understanding of effector mechanism of the immune system
- an understanding of helpful immune responses
- an understanding of harmful immune responses
Introduction to Microbiology
The aims of this class are to help students to:
- understand the fundamental taxonomic grouping and evolutionary relationships of microbes
- appreciate physiological, structural and molecular differences between different microorganisms
- understand the role and control of microorganisms in disease
- learn how organisms adapt to hostile environments and appreciate the biotechnological exploitation of extremophiles
Introduction to Pharmacology
This class aims to:
- develop understanding of systems biology and homeostasis
- develop understanding of the somatic, autonomic and central nervous systems
- develop understanding of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems
- develop understanding of the hepatic and renal systems
- develop understanding of the endocrine and reproductive systems
Being a Biomolecular Scientist 3
The aims of this module are to:
- give you generic practical skills in biomolecular science
- further develop your practical skills in specific biomedical biochemistry, microbiology, immunology, histopathology and serology that align with the module choices of the degree programme
- enhance your report writing and presentation skills
Fundamental Biochemistry
The aims of this class are to:
- demonstrate an appreciation of the key features of protein structure, properties and interactions
- know the principles underlying successful protein purification
- demonstrate an appreciation of the key principles of enzymology
- understand protein structure-function relationship
- understand the properties, function and localisation of the major cellular macromolecules
Biomedical Biochemistry
The aims of this module are:
- to understand and appreciate the key features of cellular signalling and associated molecular mechanisms that regulates gene transcription
- to learn the key features of membrane and organelle trafficking
- to understand the basis of molecular and cellular toxicity underlying tissue/organ dysfunction and organism pathologies
- to gain knowledge in the genomic basis of eukaryotic/human disorders and disease
- to understand and appreciate the biochemical approaches that underpin drug discovery
Being a Biomolecular Scientist 4
The aims of this class are:
- to give students the opportunity to carry out original research
- to provide students with the skills to critically interpret data and develop conclusions or hypotheses based upon their findings
- to provide students with the skills to analyse and present their data
- to provide knowledge in a key area that is relevant to the career aspirations of the student
Clinical Biochemistry
This module aims to provide:
- an understanding of the aetiologies, pathologies, and symptomatologies of the major disorders that are diagnosed through sample analysis within a Clinical Biochemistry Laboratory
- a theoretical and practical understanding of the diagnostic assays and assay parameters that are used in a Clinical Biochemistry laboratory
- experience of the arrangement and workflow of a typical Clinical Research laboratory gained through a visit
- this will include material delivered by NHS Clinical Scientists and Biomedical Scientists
Applied Biochemistry
The aims of this class are to provide an:
- understanding of the key concepts and biochemical approaches that underpin protein crystallography and associated protein structure modelling as applied to basic research and drug discovery/development
- understanding of the basics of commercial drug discovery and the application of biochemical techniques to recombinant production of drugs/therapeutics and genetically modified crops
- understanding and recognition of the impact of biochemical approaches in the development and maintenance of genetically modified cell models for basic and applied medical research
- understanding and recognition of the impact of biochemical approaches in the development and maintenance of genetically modified animal models for basic and applied medical research
- understand and recognition of the impact of genome editing and advanced tissue culture in basic research and regenerative medicine
Advanced Biochemistry
The aims of this class are to:
- describe the underlying molecular pathology of cardiovascular disease and be able to discuss the causes of the disease and the rationale for new therapies
- understand the genetic basis of metabolic and endocrine disorders and be able to discuss recent advances in diagnosis and treatment
- demonstrate an appreciation of the molecular mechanisms underlying brain function and the effect of excitotoxicity and neurodegenerative processes
- understand the molecular basis of cancer and appreciate recent advances in cancer diagnosis and treatment
- understand key examples of recent advances in molecular biotechnology that can be used for improved diagnostics (pharmacogenomics / personalised medicine) or therapeutics (drug design, optimisation, medicine based on genetics)
You'll also choose one other class from the Year 4 curriculum.
Assessment
Knowledge and understanding are assessed by written examinations, essays, presentations and computer-aided learning (CAL) exercises and quizzes, available on our virtual learning environment, Myplace.
Competence is assessed through practical tests, practical write-ups, project reports and CAL exercises and quizzes.
Communication skills are assessed through essays and oral presentations.
Project work is assessed from project reports and oral presentations.
There is an individual research project in the final year of the course where you’ll demonstrate research skills, problem-solving and a suitable research approach.
Learning & teaching
You’ll gain knowledge and understanding through lectures, including review-type lectures, practical classes, tutorials and computer-aided learning.
To allow you to prepare, full class handouts are available from Myplace in advance. Handouts will also be supported by tasks including essays, oral and tutorial/workshop presentations.
Quantitative skills are taught by the Department of Maths & Statistics, the Department of Pure & Applied Chemistry as well as the Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences.
Most laboratory classes, including the chemistry classes in Year 1, include number and numeracy and statistical skills. Communication skills are taught throughout the course. Information retrieval, interpretation and research skills are gained through project work which also develops team-working skills.
MSci Biochemistry entry requirements
Entry requirements for our MSci Biochemistry degree are as follows.
Required subjects are shown in brackets.
| Highers | Standard entry requirements*:Year 1 entry: AAAB/AABBC (Chemistry B, Biology/Human Biology B, Maths and English National 5 B) Minimum entry requirements**:AABB /AABCC (Biology B, Chemistry B, Maths and English National 5 B) |
|---|---|
| Advanced Highers | Year 2 entry: AB (Chemistry B, Biology/Human Biology B, plus Year 1 above) |
| A Levels | Standard entry requirements*:Year 1 entry: BBB (Chemistry and Biology, GCSE Maths 6/B, GCSE English Language 6/B or English Literature 6/B) Year 2 entry: ABB (Chemistry and Biology, GCSE Maths 6/B, GCSE English Language 6/B or English Literature 6/B) |
| International Baccalaureate | Standard entry requirements*:Year 1 entry: 30 (Chemistry HL5, Biology HL5 . Maths SL5 and English SL5) (Chemistry and Biology, one at HL6, the other at HL5. Maths SL5 and English SL5) |
| HNC/HND | Year 1 entry: HNC, Graded Unit A/HND, Graded Units BB |
| International students | View the entry requirements for your country. |
| Deferred entry | Accepted |
*Standard entry requirements
Offers are made in accordance with specified entry requirements although admission to undergraduate programmes is considered on a competitive basis and entry requirements stated are normally the minimum level required for entry.
Whilst offers are made primarily on the basis of an applicant meeting or exceeding the stated entry criteria, admission to the University is granted on the basis of merit, and the potential to succeed. As such, a range of information is considered in determining suitability.
In exceptional cases, where an applicant does not meet the competitive entry standard, evidence may be sought in the personal statement or reference to account for performance which was affected by exceptional circumstances, and which in the view of the judgement of the selector would give confidence that the applicant is capable of completing the programme of study successfully.
**Minimum entry requirements
Widening access
We want to increase opportunities for people from every background. Strathclyde selects our students based on merit, potential and the ability to benefit from the education we offer. We look for more than just your grades. We consider the circumstances of your education and will make lower offers to certain applicants as a result.
Degree preparation course for international students
We offer international students (non-EU/UK) who do not meet the academic entry requirements for an undergraduate degree at Strathclyde the option of completing an Undergraduate Foundation year programme at the University of Strathclyde International Study Centre.
Upon successful completion, you'll be able to progress to this degree course at the University of Strathclyde.
International students
We've a thriving international community with students coming here to study from over 100 countries across the world. Find out all you need to know about studying in Glasgow at Strathclyde and hear from students about their experiences.
Visit our international students' section
Fees & funding
All fees quoted are for full-time courses and per academic year unless stated otherwise.
Fees may be subject to updates to maintain accuracy. Tuition fees will be notified in your offer letter.
All fees are in £ sterling, unless otherwise stated, and may be subject to revision.
Annual revision of fees
Students on programmes of study of more than one year should be aware that tuition fees are revised annually and may increase in subsequent years of study. Annual increases will generally reflect UK inflation rates and increases to programme delivery costs.
| Scotland | 2023/24: £1,820 Fees for students who meet the relevant residence requirements in Scotland are subject to confirmation by the Scottish Funding Council. Scottish undergraduate students undertaking an exchange for a semester/year will continue to pay their normal tuition fees at Strathclyde and will not be charged fees by the overseas institution. |
|---|---|
| England, Wales & Northern Ireland | £9,250 *Assuming no change in RUK fees policy over the period, the total amount payable by undergraduate students will be capped. For students commencing study in 2023/24, this is capped at £27,750 (with the exception of the MPharm and integrated Masters programmes), MPharm students pay £9,250 for each of the four years. Students studying on integrated Masters degree programmes pay an additional £9,250 for the Masters year with the exception of those undertaking a full-year industrial placement where a separate placement fee will apply. |
| International | £22,450 |
| University preparation programme fees | International students can find out more about the costs and payments of studying a university preparation programme at the University of Strathclyde International Study Centre. |
| Additional costs | Lab coats and safety goggles, approximately £25. International studentsInternational students may have associated visa and immigration costs. Please see student visa guidance for more information. |
| Available scholarships | Take a look at our scholarships search for funding opportunities. |
Please note: all fees shown are annual and may be subject to an increase each year. Find out more about fees.
How can I fund my studies?
Students from Scotland
Fees for students who meet the relevant residence requirements in Scotland, you may be able to apply to the Student Award Agency Scotland (SAAS) to have your tuition fees paid by the Scottish government. Scottish students may also be eligible for a bursary and loan to help cover living costs while at University.
For more information on funding your studies have a look at our University Funding page.
Students from England, Wales & Northern Ireland
We have a generous package of bursaries on offer for students from England, Northern Ireland and Wales:
You don’t need to make a separate application for these. When your place is confirmed at Strathclyde, we’ll assess your eligibility. Have a look at our scholarship search for any more funding opportunities.
International Students
We have a number of scholarships available to international students. Take a look at our scholarship search to find out more.
Careers
You could be involved in the development of drugs, food processing, protecting the environment, fighting disease or even slowing down the ageing process.
Our graduates find jobs in the pharmaceutical, biotech and agrochemical industries, hospitals and public service laboratories, environmental centres, analytical and forensic science labs, universities, the scientific civil service and teaching at all levels.
Many students also continue on to postgraduate studies and research.
The transferable skills you gain from this course will not only prepare you for a career in science but also in areas such as finance, management, marketing, sales, business and media.
How much will I earn?
Biochemists start on NHS Band 6 salaries which are around £26,000 to £34,000.
Consultant clinical scientists can earn up to £54,500.*
*Information is only intended as a guide.
Glasgow is Scotland's biggest & most cosmopolitan city
Our campus is based right in the very heart of Glasgow. We're in the city centre, next to the Merchant City, both of which are great locations for sightseeing, shopping and socialising alongside your studies.
Life in Glasgow
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Start date: Sep 2023
Biochemistry (1 year entry)
Start date: Sep 2023
Biochemistry (2 year entry)
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Have you considered?
We've a range of undergraduate courses similar to this one which may also be of interest.