Biochemistry with Integrated Master's

Biochemistry with Integrated Master's - MSci

Understand how life and the systems within it exist at a molecular level to make exciting advances in medicine, veterinary medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology. Our Biochemistry with Integrated Masters (MSci), delivers the advanced problem solving, communication and enhanced research skills to fast-track your career in a variety of fields.

Year of entry

2024 - for 2024 entry see here - for 2023 entry see here

Course type

Integrated Master's

Location

Keele University campus

Subject area / School

School of Life Sciences

UCAS code

C702

Duration of study

4 years / 5 years with international or placement year

Enquire about this course Clearing vacancies and entry requirements 2023 Book an open day Chat to students

Why study Biochemistry with Integrated Master's at Keele University?

Britain's best University, as ranked by students (No.1 in the UK, Student Crowd University Awards, 2022)

Gain advanced problem solving, communication and research skills to enhance your employability

Carry out practical work in Keele's state-of-the-art Central Science Laboratories (CSL)

Focus on the application of biochemistry to human health and disease

Enhance your employability by choosing to spend a year studying abroad

Course overview

From unlocking the secrets of the human body to the individually tailored molecular therapies of the future, biochemistry is the study of biological processes at the cellular and molecular level. This is the foundation for understanding all biological processes, including the development and progression of diverse pathologies, across species. It has become the foundation for understanding all biological processes and can provide explanations for the causes of many diseases in humans, animals and plants.

Our Biochemistry MSci focuses on the application of biochemistry to human health and disease. The programme develops across five core themes: macromolecular structure-function, metabolism and its control, genetics, cell biology and the applications of chemistry in the study of these. The fourth year of study is designed to enhance your employability through the development of advanced problem solving and communication skills. You will further develop independent learning and enhanced research skills in the critical evaluation of scientific literature and in the design and conduct of an authentic research study.

Year one

In your first year you will study a variety of core modules that will provide you with a broad and varied grounding in modern biochemistry. You will explore the structure and function of biological molecules and metabolic processes, core chemical concepts and their application to the biological sciences and molecular cell biology. To equip you with the scientific core skills needed for a career in the biosciences, you will undertake frequent laboratory classes to develop your practical, analytical, observational and interpretive skills.

Professional skills

Our core first year module 'professional skills for biochemists' will develop team-working, communication, safe laboratory practice, enquiry and analytical skills. You will work on an innovative mini-project, where you will design, market and test an assay kit and work as a group investigating the real life applications of biochemistry in the diagnosis, treatment and management of disease. This module supports broader skills development alongside the core laboratory programme in the "core practical skills" module and taught material in other modules in the course.

Year two

Building on the knowledge and practical experience acquired in year one, you will continue to expand your skillset by examining the application of biochemistry to topics such as gene and protein engineering and drug design. You will further develop skills in communicating to range of target audiences including producing a product information leaflet on an allocated drug or medication detailing key information on the structure, function and biological activity. You will also expand your practical and analytical skills in a Practical Skills in Bioscience module, including core molecular biology and immunological techniques, as well as in experimental design through conducting a mini-research project, supporting transition to your final year research projects.

Year three

In year three you will undertake an independent experimental research project, which could include lab-based research projects, systematic reviews, bioinformatics, pedagogic research, outreach work, or based on research carried out on placement. During the project you will develop higher-level research skills in the acquisition and analysis of data, and in evaluating outcomes in context to a wide body of supporting literature. In addition to your research project you will also under take a number of core modules in areas such as medical glycobiology and biotechnology, whilst selecting from a range of optional modules, depending on your personal interests. This may include modules focusing on parasitology, cancer biology, and structural biology.

You will also further develop communication skills in this final year in a variety of formats, such as experimental project reports, literature reviews, research posters, Wikipedia-style web pages and even collating your own mini-journal. The year concludes with our undergraduate student research conference where you will showcase the outcomes of your research project.

Year four

The MSci fourth year of study is designed to enhance your research skills in the critical evaluation of scientific literature and in the design and conduct of an authentic research study. You will also develop a greater awareness of research impact, the processes involved in communicating your research findings and securing funding.

Gain practical experience in industry

In an increasingly competitive job market, employers are seeking to recruit employees who have high-level knowledge, skills and an understanding of the workplace.If you're unsure which area of biochemistry you want to focus on, work experience can also provide you with a deep insight into what the work is like. From a year working in industry and paid internships to summer secondment research placements, our programme offers opportunities for you to gain familiarisation with the professional working environment, develop professional contacts and apply the skills and theories you have learnt.

Study abroad

In between years two and three of your studies you can choose to spend either a semester or a year studying abroad. This exciting opportunity enable you to understand your field from different cultural perspectives and to establish international networks. It also shows you have the personal attributes to embrace new experiences which can enhance your employability.
We offer exchange opportunities with a wide variety of partner institutions.

Support

We offer a multi layered support structure to help you meet your academic and personal needs. You will be assigned a academic mentor and have the opportunity to gain advice from Keele's Student Experience and Support team.Our open-door policy enables you to engage with us directly, meaning you can seek support, gain feedback or discuss any matters related to your course on a regular basis.

Practical support

During practical workshops you will have the support from a variety of academic staff. In addition to your lead lecturer you will benefit from the guidance of:

Lead demonstrators
Postgraduate student demonstrators
Laboratory technicians

Practical sessions may also be supported with core skills videos and laboratory simulations, helping you prepare for sessions in advance and revisit some of core concepts outside of the laboratory environment. Additional workshops will develop your skills in data analysis and presentation.

Societies

We have a wealth of student-led societies which cover a diverse range of interests. Joining a society related to your field is a great opportunity to continue to develop your skills away from your studies.
This is another excellent way of demonstrating your genuine interest for the area and can be beneficial when it comes to applying for graduate roles. It’s also a great way to meet like-minded people, make friends and share interests with fellow students.

Related courses

Biochemistry can also be studied as a Combined Honours degree in the following combinations:

Next Steps

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Additional opportunities

Foundation year Learn a language Placement year International year GCP Elective Pathways Explore more

There are a range of additional opportunities available when studying this course.
Please note, undertaking one may impact upon the availability of another.

Entry requirements

The following section details our typical entry requirements for this course for a range of UK and international qualifications. If you don’t see your qualifications listed, please contact us to find out if we can accept your qualifications. If you don't think you'll meet the entry requirements specified, you may be able to gain entry to this course via a Foundation Year.

Typical offer

Please ensure that you read the full entry requirements by selecting your qualifications from the dropdown menu below. This will include any subject specific, GCSE/Level 2 Maths, and English Language requirements you may need.

A Level: ABB Subject specifics apply

BTEC: DDM Subject specifics apply

T Level: Distinction Subject specifics apply

Please select your qualification from the drop-down list below for the full entry requirement information

A Level

ABB in three A Levels including B in Chemistry and B in one other Science subject from the Keele Defined Sciences List.

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

BTEC Extended Diploma / National Extended Diploma

DDM in any of the following BTEC Extended Diplomas / National Extended Diplomas: Applied Science, including completion of three out of four of the following units: Applications of Organic Chemistry, Applications of Inorganic Chemistry, Industrial Chemical Analysis, Practical Chemical Analysis.

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

BTEC National Diploma / Diploma

Distinction and Merit in any BTEC National Diploma / Diploma and B in Chemistry A Level, or Distinction and Merit in Applied Science BTEC National Diploma / Diploma including completion of three out of four of the following units: Applications of Organic Chemistry, Applications of Inorganic Chemistry, Industrial Chemical Analysis, Practical Chemical Analysis, and A in any A Level.

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

BTEC National Extended Certificate / Subsidiary Diploma

Distinction in any BTEC National Extended Certificate / Subsidiary Diploma and BB in two A Levels including B in Chemistry and B in one other Science subject from the Keele Defined Sciences List, or Distinction in Applied Science BTEC National Extended Certificate / Subsidiary Diploma and BB in two A Levels including B in Chemistry.

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

T Level

Distinction in any of the following T levels: Science, with specialism in Laboratory Sciences.

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

International Baccalaureate Diploma

655 in three Higher Levels including Chemistry and one other Science subject from the Keele Defined Sciences List at Higher Level, or 32 points including Higher Level Chemistry and one other Higher Level Science subject from the Keele Defined Sciences List.

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, or 3 in IB Middle Years Maths, or 3 in IB Diploma Standard Level Maths (any), plus an English language qualification (see below)

International Baccalaureate Careers Programme

We encourage applications with the IBCP but recognise that your combination of qualifications may differ depending on where you are studying.

If you are taking a BTEC National Diploma / Diploma with one or more Higher Levels, your offer will be similar to our BTEC + A Level offer (see 'BTEC National Diploma / Diploma') but with an HL requirement of 6 for A, 5 for B, or 4 for C.

For any other combination, please contact the University Admissions Team for advice.

Access to HE Diploma

128 UCAS points in any Access to HE Diploma including Distinction in at least 30 Level 3 credits and Merit in at least 15 Level 3 credits.

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Welsh Baccalaureate / Bagloriaeth Cymru

The Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate is equivalent to one full A Level at the same grade and can be included alongside 2 other A Levels in a standard A Level offer for this course (see A Level). All subject specific requirements will still need to be met.

Scotland - Highers and Advanced Highers

BBBBC in five Highers including Chemistry Higher, or BC in two Advanced Highers and CC in two Highers including Chemistry Higher or Advanced Higher, or BCC in three Advanced Highers including Chemistry Advanced Higher.

You will also need: C in National 5 Maths, or 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

If you have B or higher in the EPQ and are studying A Levels, BTEC, the International Baccalaureate Diploma, or an Access to HE Diploma, you will typically receive an alternative offer which will be lower than the standard offer. Please see 'Alternative and contextual offers' below.

Core Maths

If you have B or higher in Core Maths and are studying A Levels, BTEC, the International Baccalaureate, or an Access to HE Diploma, you will typically receive an alternative offer which will be lower than the standard offer. Please see 'Alternative and contextual offers' below.

Ireland - Leaving Certificate

H3, H3, H3, H4, H4, H4 in the Irish Leaving Certificate including H4 in Chemistry or Physics and Chemistry (combined) and H4 in one other subject from the Science or Applied Science Groups.

You will also need: O4 / H6 in Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

China - Gaokao

75% in the Gaokao including 70% in Chemistry.

You will also need: 60% in Senior Secondary School or Gaokao Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

India - Standard XII

Average of 75% from four subjects including 70% in Chemistry in the ICSE, CBSE or Western Bengal Standard XII, or average of 80% from four subjects including 75% in Chemistry in any other Standard XII.

You will also need: 6 or C2 in Secondary School Examination Maths, or Pass in Standard XII Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Germany - Abitur

2.0 overall average in the Abitur including 12 in Chemistry and 12 in Geography, Psychology, Maths, Physics, Biology, Computer Science, Technology, Nutritional Science or Sports.

You will also need: 10 in Maths in the Abitur, plus an English language qualification (see below)

France - Baccalaureate

13 in the French Baccalaureate with 13 in Chemistry / Physics and 13 in Maths, Science, Sport, Engineering Sciences, Life and Earth Sciences or Information Technology, or 12.5 in the International Option Baccalaureate with 12 in Chemistry / Physics and 12 in Maths, Science, Sport, Engineering Sciences, Life and Earth Sciences or Information Technology.

You will also need: 10 in Maths in the Baccalaureate, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Hong Kong - Diploma

544 from two electives and one core subject in the HKDSE including 4 in Chemistry and 4 in Maths, Physics, Biology, Geography, Design and Applied Technology, ICT or Physical Education.

You will also need: 2 in HKDSE Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Spain - Bachillerato

Overall average of 7.8 in the Título de Bachillerato including 8 in Chemistry and 8 in Maths, Biology, Physics, Geology, Geography, Earth Sciences and Environmental Sciences, Psychology, Industrial Technology or ICT.

You will also need: 5 in Graduado en Educación Secundaria (GES) Maths or 6 in Título de Bachiller Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Italy - Diploma di Esame di Stato

85% in the Esame di Stato including 8 in Chemistry and 8 in Maths, Physics, Natural Science, Geography, Physical Education, or ICT.

You will also need: 5 in Maths in the Diploma, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Cyprus - Apolytirion

18.5 / 88% in the Apolytirion including 18 in Chemistry and 18 in Biology, Computer Science, Design and Technology, Information Technology, Geography, Maths, Physical Education or Physics.

You will also need: 14 in Maths in the Apolytirion, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Portugal

Overall average of 16 in a Secondary Certificate including 16 in Chemistry and 16 in Maths, Biology, Physics, Geology, Geography, Computer Applications, Psychology, Physical Education.

You will also need: 10 in Secondary Certificate Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Canada - Diploma

70% / BBBBC in five courses in the Grade 12 Diploma including 70% in Chemistry and 70% in Advanced Functions, Biology, Calculus and Vectors, Computer Science, Maths of Data Management or Physics.

You will also need: 50% in Grade 11 Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Kenya - KCSE / Diploma

We do not accept the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education for direct entry. However, you can apply to study an International Foundation Year at Keele University International College. On successful completion, you can progress to an undergraduate degree at Keele.

We may accept a two year Diploma. Please contact the University Admissions Team for advice

Nigeria - Senior School Certificate / OND

We do not accept the Senior School Certificate (WAEC or NECO) for direct entry. However, you can apply to study an International Foundation Year at Keele University International College. On successful completion, you can progress to an undergraduate degree at Keele.

We may accept an Ordinary National Diploma with GPA of 2.5 or a Merit / Lower Credit. Please contact the University Admissions Team for advice.

USA - Advanced Placement

544 from three Advanced Placement subjects including 4 in Chemistry and 4 in Calculus (either), Physics (any), Biology, Computer Science (either), Environmental Science, Psychology or Statistics.

You will also need: C in Grade 12 High School Diploma Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Ghana

We do not accept the West African Senior School Certificate Examination for direct entry. However, you can apply to study an International Foundation Year at Keele University International College. On successful completion, you can progress to an undergraduate degree at Keele.

Sri Lanka - Advanced Level

ABB in three Advanced Levels including B in Chemistry and B in Combined Maths, Physics, ICT, Biology, Physics or Agricultural Science.

You will also need: C in O-level Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Malaysia - STPM

ABB in three subjects in the STPM including B in Chemistry and B in Maths, ICT, Physics, Biology, Geography, or Sports Science.

You will also need: C in SPM Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Pakistan - Secondary School Certificate

We do not accept the Secondary School Certificate for direct entry. However, you can apply to study an International Foundation Year at Keele University International College. On successful completion, you can progress to an undergraduate degree at Keele.

Singapore - A Levels (H2)

ABB in three H2 levels including B in Chemistry and B in Biology, Physics, Computing, Maths, Further Maths or Geography.

You will also need: C in O-level Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

European Baccalaureate

75% overall with 7 in Chemistry and 7 in Maths (3 or 5 period), Physical Education, Biology (2 or 4 period), Geography (2 or 4 period), or Physics.

You will also need: 6 in European Baccalaureate Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

English Language Requirements

All of our courses require an English language qualification or test. For most students, this requirement can be met with a 4 or C in GCSE English. Please see our English Language guidance pages for further details, including English language test information for international students. For those students who require an English language test, this course requires a test from Group A.

Alternative and contextual offers

We're committed to ensuring equality of opportunity to all our applicants with the potential and motivation to succeed, regardless of background. That's why we operate a range of alternative offer schemes with clear eligibility criteria, including contextual offers, offers for those studying within the Keele region, and recognising a range of additional qualifications in your offer.

General information

The entry grades outlined in this section indicate the typical offer which would be made to candidates, along with any subject specific requirements. This is for general information only. Keele University reserves the right to vary offer conditions depending upon a candidate's application.

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"The course enabled me to gain a broad perspective of different aspects of Human Biology. From studying cells and biological molecules to learning about organ systems. After completing my degree I was accepted onto AstraZeneca's Innovative Medicines and Early Development graduate programme. "

Robert, Biochemistry and Human Biology

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Teaching, learning and assessment

Teaching and learning quality

We offer a hybrid delivery of teaching - online learning and in-person teaching. Our core content is designed for online consumption and this aims to provide you with the space and flexibility to choose how, when and where you want to study. We support your learning with weekly teaching activities across all of your modules that focus on social learning. This will maximise your ability to talk to each other and to your tutors as you explore the content in more detail. For example, through case-based learning, labs, group discussions and a range of tutorials and workshops at every level of study. To complement our core virtual learning, laboratory practicals, tutorials, seminars and workshops take place on-campus.

Teaching

Assessment

From designing and marketing a commercial assay kit to creating patient information leaflets - the assessment methods utilised within our programme aim to give you experience of work-related activities you will likely undertake in graduate roles.

Methods of assessment include:

Essays
Portfolio or literature reviews
Laboratory or fieldwork reports or research projects
Scientific posters
Patient information leaflets
Blogs or oral presentations
User guides for commercial assay kits
Journal entries
Wikipedia page creation
Online end-of-module open-book exams
Online tests
Final year independent research project

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Central Science Laboratories

Develop your practical skills in Keele's state-of-the-art Central Science Laboratories

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Foundation year

Our Foundation Year provides an excellent alternative route to Keele, providing a unique opportunity to better prepare for your chosen degree, and with guaranteed entry onto your undergraduate course once you successfully complete your Foundation Year.

This extra year of study can improve your academic skills, expand your subject knowledge, give you a better understanding of higher education and, perhaps most importantly of all, build your confidence.

Keele University is consistently ranked among the top universities for student satisfaction, and we have over 70 years' experience of teaching a foundation year to students. On the Keele Foundation Year, you'll study on campus, joining our undergraduate community from the outset, with access to all the facilities and support that you'd get as an undergraduate student at Keele.

The information in this Foundation Year section is for UK/Home applicants. Where an international Foundation Year is available, please see the 'Information for international students' tab.

The information within this page is for students wishing to start their studies in September. If you would like to start this course in January, please visit our January pages for further details.

Course Content

Our Foundation Year allows you to develop your critical thinking, academic reading, writing, and communication study skills along with subject-specific knowledge and skills which will be invaluable in your academic studies and beyond. Upon meeting the progression criteria and successfully completing our Foundation Year, you will automatically progress into your Keele undergraduate degree with the confidence that you have the skills, and knowledge needed to successfully complete your course. In addition to meeting the Foundation Year progression requirements, students must also meet all credit requirements in each year of their studies to be awarded a Master’s Degree

This Foundation Year is a two-semester programme which provides a tailored pre-degree programme of study to better prepare you for the MSci Biochemistry programme. For example, the Foundations of Life Sciences module will look at basic cell biology in terms of structure and function and go on to examine how cells obtain their energy and raw materials. It considers how organisms interact and analyses the effects of climate change on ecosystems. Meanwhile, the Advancing Chemistry module aims to increase your knowledge and understanding of the principles and concepts of chemistry in a theoretical context, while also demonstrating the application of concepts in a practical environment. Course content has been developed in collaboration with degree teaching teams, so that by the time you begin Year 1, you will be ready to excel at your studies, as the majority of our Foundation Year students do.

Find out more about the Keele Foundation Year, including information about teaching and assessment methods by visiting the Foundation Year homepage.

Course Structure

The module details given below are indicative, they are intended to provide you with an idea of the range of subjects that are taught to our current students. The modules that will be available for you to study in future years are prone to change as we regularly review our teaching to ensure that it is up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods. The information presented is therefore not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules available in any given year.

Semester One Modules

FYO-00185	Practical and Academic Skills in Science	15 credits
FYO-00211	Foundations in Numerical and Quantitative Methods for Scientists	15 credits
FYO-00189	Foundations of Chemistry	15 credits
FYO-00197	Foundations of Life Sciences	15 credits

Semester Two Modules

FYO-00199	Advancing Life Sciences	30 credits
FYO-00191	Advancing Chemistry	30 credits

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

The entry grades outlined in this section indicate the likely offer or range of offers which would be made to candidates along with any subject specific requirements. This is for general information only. Keele University reserves the right to vary offer conditions depending upon a candidate’s application. Read more about our undergraduate entry requirements.

56 UCAS points including at least one Level 3 qualification (such as an A Level, BTEC, Access Course, or T Level)
Plus C in GCSE English / Level 2 Functional Skills English and C in GCSE Maths / Level 2 Functional Skills Maths

How to Apply

Students will need to apply for BSc (Hons) Biochemistry with Foundation Year (UCAS code C703) through UCAS at www.ucas.com.

Direct Entry Students

If you already have your qualifications, are not expecting any further results and only wish to apply to Keele, please contact the Admissions Office directly.

The information in this Foundation Year section is for UK/Home applicants. Where an international Foundation Year is available, please see the 'Information for international students' tab.

We also offer a January start for some of our Foundation Year courses. Adopting a blended learning approach, the January start is particularly useful for students wishing to return to education following time out of studying, or who are seeking a flexible approach to their Foundation Year studies. Our January start is available across most of our Science, Humanities, Social Science and Business courses.

Whilst still being a full-time course, our blended delivery model combines live teaching sessions - both online and on-campus - with self-directed study, enabling you to predominantly study at a time that suits your lifestyle. You will benefit from weekly online taught sessions which encourage you to engage with your teachers and peers.

In addition to online study there will be a series of full study days that you will be required to attend throughout each semester. These sessions may include lab-based activities, group work, review of course and assessment materials studied online. They will emphasise opportunities for you to deepen your knowledge and understanding of your chosen route.

Please refer to the September start tab for more information about the entry requirements and what you will study. The modules that you will take on a January start Foundation Year will be similar to those for the September start, but in a slightly different order and pattern.

For more information, including fees, the UCAS code for this course, how to apply, and how you will be taught, please visit our January Start Foundation Year webpage.

Our International Foundation Year is delivered on campus through Keele University International College (KUIC). Find out more about the International Foundation Year options on the KUIC website.

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