BSc Hons Biochemistry & Pharmacology
ApplyKey facts
- UCAS Code: CB72
- Accreditation: Royal Society of Biology
1st in the UK for Pharmacology & Pharmacy (Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024) / 3rd for Pharmacology & Pharmacy (Complete University Guide 2025)
Flexible degree: flexibility to change to other Biomolecular Science courses throughout your studies
Study with us
- our Institute of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences (SIPBS) is a leading centre for research focused on new medicines, better medicines and better use of medicines
- study how drugs and other chemicals affect the functions of the body and underpins the development of new or improved medicines and the treatment of disease
- develop understanding of the molecular basis of life, and how alteration of these molecular pathways leads to disease processes
- this joint Honours degree course combines biochemistry and pharmacology and is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology
Why this course?
Biochemistry is the study of the composition, metabolism and function of biological systems at a molecular level. Biochemistry and the related field of molecular biology provide important advances in understanding the molecular basis of life and its role in the disease process.
Pharmacology is the study of how drugs and other chemicals affect the body in health and disease. This area explores the development of new and improved medicines and the treatment of disease.
The opportunity to choose specific degree combinations will allow you to go into specialist biomedical science areas such as neuroscience, cardiovascular research, immunopharmacology, industrial immunology, drug research, biochemistry, microbiology and bacteriology.
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 modules in Cells and their Molecules, Organisms and Diseases and Bio-organic Chemistry. These are all underpinned by the ‘Being a Biomolecular Scientist’ module 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’ module which develops various skills gained in Year 1.
Years 3 & 4
You'll specialise in the area in which you plan to graduate. In the Honours year, you’ll carry out a research project in either subject and present a dissertation of your work. This could be lab-based research.
You can also take part in enterprise projects of commercial significance for a pharmaceutical or biotechnology company in the west of Scotland. Student exchange programmes offer the chance to study and take part in lab-based research abroad.
Transfer to the MSci Biochemistry or Immunology may be possible at the end of Year 4, subject to performance.
Our department holds a Silver Athena Swan award, recognising our exceptional commitment and excellence in the advancement of gender equality.
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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.
In Years 3 and 4 you'll take specialist classes along with a research project in biochemistry and pharmacology. In Year 4, you'll present a dissertation of your work.
Semester 1 & 2
Being a Biomolecular Scientist 1 - 40 credits
This module aims to give you:
- the foundation practical skills required for a biological biochemistry
- the foundation practical skills based around 'health and the body'
- foundation presentation skills
Semester 1
Cells & their Molecules - 20 credits
The aims of this module are to:
- provide you with Foundation level knowledge relating to basic functions of cells
- set out the principles of biological action and function that you will encounter through all four years
- expose you to the basic suite of teaching, learning and assessment paradigms used throughout your degree with a particular focus on oral communication and presentation
Semester 2
Organisms & Disease - 20 credits
From this module, you will gain:
- foundation-level knowledge relating to basic evolution, species diversity, development, homeostasis, and infectious disease
- the principles of biological action and function that you will encounter through all four years
- knowledge about methods of teaching, learning and assessment used throughout the degree, with particular focus on teamwork and finding, citing and using information
Bio-Organic Chemistry - 20 credits
The aims of this module are to:
- understand nucleotide/nucleic acid molecular structure, stereochemistry and conformation as the foundation of nucleic acid chemical and biological potential
- learn about amino acid/protein molecular structure, stereochemistry and conformation as the foundation of protein chemical and biological potential
- study 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
Semester 1 & 2
Being a Biomolecular Scientist 2 - 40 credits
The aims of this module are to give you the fundamental:
- practical skills required for a biochemist
- practical skills required for an immunologist
- practical skills required for a microbiologist
- practical skills required for a pharmacologist
- skills in presentation and teamwork
Semester 1
Introduction to Biochemistry - 20 credits
The aims of this module are for you:
- 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 - 20 credits
By studying this module, you'll be able to demonstrate an understanding of:
- how immune cells recognise antigens
- key concepts in induction of acquired immunity
- effector mechanism of the immune system
- helpful immune responses
- harmful immune responses
Semester 2
Introduction to Microbiology - 20 credits
The aims of this module are to help you 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 - 20 credits
This module aims to develop your understanding of:
- systems biology and homeostasis
- the somatic, autonomic and central nervous systems
- the cardiovascular and respiratory systems
- the hepatic and renal systems
- the endocrine and reproductive systems
Semester 1 & 2
Being a Biomolecular Scientist 3 - 40 credits
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
Semester 1
Fundamental Pharmacology - 20 credits
The aims of this module are to develop you understanding of:
- how drugs act at receptors and how these actions can be quantified
- the major cell signalling mechanisms in cells
- the properties and distribution of adrenoceptors and therapeutic uses of related drugs
- the properties and functions of eicosanoids and autacoids and therapeutic uses of related drugs
- the properties and distribution of GABA and glutamate receptors and therapeutic uses of related drugs
Biomedical Biochemistry - 20 credits
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
Semester 2
Fundamental Biochemistry - 20 credits
The aims of this module 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 Pharmacology - 20 Credits
The aims of this module are to develop your understanding of:
- cardiovascular pathophysiology
- respiratory disease
- chronic inflammatory diseases
- liver and kidney dysfunction
- haematopoietic-linked diseases
Semester 1 & 2
Being a Biomolecular Scientist 4 - 40 credits
The aims of this module are:
- to give you the opportunity to carry out original research
- to provide you with the skills to critically interpret data and develop conclusions or hypotheses based upon your findings
- to provide you with the skills to analyse and present your data
- to provide knowledge in a key area that is relevant to your career aspirations.
Semester 1
Advanced Biochemistry - 20 credits
The aims of this module 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)
Advanced Pharmacology - 20 credits
The aims of this module are to help you develop an understanding of:
- advanced topics in pharmacology
- P2X and P2Y receptors as novel therapeutic targets
- models of stroke and therapeutic targets
- optogenetics
- the roles of sphingosine 1-phosphate in cancer
- the study of leukocytes in angioplasty
Optional modules
Choose one module from the following:
Semester 2
Clinical Biochemistry - 20 credits
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
Clinical Pharmacology - 20 credits
The aims of this module are to develop your understanding of:
- neurodegenerative disorders and the common themes of protein aggregation and inflammation in the brain
- the pharmacological control of global activity within the nervous system: epilepsy, anaesthesia and analgesia, use of sedatives and hypnotics
- psychiatric disorders
- drug dependence
- endocrine disease and oral contraceptives
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’s an individual research project in the final year of the course where you’ll demonstrate research skills, problem-solving and a 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, class handouts are available in advance from Myplace. Handouts will also be supported by 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 that are used in the institute. Communication skills are taught throughout the course. Information retrieval, interpretation and research skills are gained through project work, which also develops team-working skills.
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.
Entry requirements
Required subjects are shown in brackets.
| Highers |
Year 1 entry: AABB/AAAC (two sciences – Biology/Human Biology B and Chemistry B; Maths and English National 5 B) AABB /AABCC (Biology B, Chemistry B, Maths and English National 5 B) |
|---|---|
| Advanced Highers | Year 2 entry: BB (Chemistry B, Biology/ Human Biology B, plus Year 1 above) |
| A Levels | Standard entry requirements*: Year 1 entry: BBB (two sciences required, at least one of which must be Biology or Chemistry; GCSE Chemistry 6/B (if not at A Level); GCSE Maths 6/B, GCSE English Language 6/B or Literature 6/B) Year 2 entry: BBB (Chemistry and Biology, GCSE Maths 6/B, and GCSE English Language 6/B or English Literature 6/B) |
| International Baccalaureate | Standard entry requirements*: Year 1 entry: 30 (Two science subjects at HL5 at least one of which must be Biology or Chemistry. 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 B |
| 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 that 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
Contextual Admissions for 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.
University preparation programme for international students
We offer international students (non-UK/Ireland) who do not meet the academic entry requirements for an undergraduate degree at Strathclyde the option of completing an Undergraduate Foundation Programme in Business and Social Sciences at the University of Strathclyde International Study Centre.
Upon successful completion, you can progress to your chosen degree at the University of Strathclyde.
International students
We've a thriving international community with students coming here to study from over 140 countries across the world. Find out all you need to know about studying in Glasgow at Strathclyde and hear from students about their experiences.
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 (or studying standalone modules) 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 | £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 fees policy over the period, the total amount payable by undergraduate students will be capped. For students commencing study in 2024/25, 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. |
| Republic of Ireland | If you are an Irish citizen and have been ordinary resident in the Republic of Ireland for the three years prior to the relevant date, and will be coming to Scotland for Educational purposes only, you will meet the criteria of England, Wales & Northern Ireland fee status. For more information and advice on tuition fee status, you can visit the UKCISA - International student advice and guidance - Scotland: fee status webpage. Find out more about the University of Strathclyde's fee assessments process. |
| International | £25,250 |
| 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
International students International 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. Take a look at our scholarships search for 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 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 areas such as finance, management, marketing, sales, business and media.
Apply
Start date:
Biochemistry & Pharmacology (1 year entry)
Start date:
Biochemistry & Pharmacology (2 year entry)
Start date:
Biochemistry & Pharmacology (1 year entry)
Start date:
Biochemistry & Pharmacology (2 year entry)
Start date: Sep 2025
Biochemistry & Pharmacology (1 year entry)
Start date: Sep 2025
Biochemistry & Pharmacology (2 year entry)
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Entry requirements
Required subjects are shown in brackets.
| Highers |
Year 1 entry: AABB/AAAC (two sciences – Biology/Human Biology B and Chemistry B; Maths and English National 5 B) ABBB /AABC (Biology B, Chemistry B, Maths and English National 5 B) |
|---|---|
| Advanced Highers | Year 2 entry: BB (Chemistry B, Biology/ Human Biology B, plus Year 1 above) |
| A Levels | Standard entry requirements*: Year 1 entry: BBB (two sciences required, at least one of which must be Biology or Chemistry; GCSE Chemistry 6/B (if not at A Level); GCSE Maths 6/B, GCSE English Language 6/B or Literature 6/B) Year 2 entry: BBB (Chemistry and Biology, GCSE Maths 6/B, and GCSE English Language 6/B or English Literature 6/B) |
| International Baccalaureate | Standard entry requirements*: Year 1 entry: 30 (Two science subjects at HL5 at least one of which must be Biology or Chemistry. 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 B |
| 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 that 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.