Biochemistry and Medicinal Chemistry

Biochemistry and Medicinal Chemistry - BSc (Hons)

Explore how life and the systems within it exist at a molecular level to make exciting advances in medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology whilst considering global health issues to develop your understanding of drug design. Biochemistry and Medicinal Chemistry at Keele delivers the knowledge and techniques to enable you to pursue a variety of careers in a range of sectors.

Year of entry

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

Course type

Combined Honours

Location

Keele University campus

Subject area / School

School of Life Sciences School of Chemical and Physical Sciences

UCAS code

CFR1

Duration of study

3 years / 4 years with international or placement year

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Why study Biochemistry and Medicinal Chemistry at Keele University?

Top 10 in England for Biochemistry (National Student Survey, 2021)

Develop your core practical skills in Keele's state-of-the-art laboratories

Enhance your employability with the opportunity to spend a year studying abroad

Professional accreditation pathways are available

Discover diverse cultures through an international year at a partner university across the globe

Course overview

Study two interesting areas of science and enhance your scientific techniques and knowledge on our Biochemistry and Medicinal Chemistry BSc.

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.

Medicinal chemistry is aimed at students interested in working within the pharmaceutical sector. From understanding how pharmaceuticals interact with our bodies to exploring drug design to combat various diseases, the application of medicinal chemistry plays a vital part in prolonging and improving life.

Biochemistry modules cover five core themes: macromolecular structure-function, metabolism and its control, genetics, cell biology and the applications of chemistry in the study of these. The course will give you 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.

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. These communication skills are further developed later in the course in a variety of formats, such as experimental project reports, literature reviews, research posters. The year concludes with our undergraduate student research conference where you will showcase the outcomes of your research project.

The medicinal chemistry element of the course provides you with a strong grounding in core areas such as the principles of drug design. This focusses on understanding the interaction of small molecules with biological targets in the body and applying this to the design of drug molecules. During practical sessions you will learn advanced experimental techniques including handling air-sensitive reagents, and also complete a multi-step synthesis of nalidixic acid (the heterocyclic core of a new class of antibacterial agents) to mimic the processes used in the pharmaceutical industry.

As you advance on this course modules will build on the knowledge you've acquired in the principles of drug design by looking at the mechanism of drug action. This follows the pathway of a drug substance through the body, looking at the key areas of pharmaceutics and pharmacokinetics.

Final year research project

In the final year you will undertake an independent experimental research project in Biochemistry or Medicinal Chemistry. This could include lab-based research projects, systematic reviews, bioinformatics, pedagogic research, or 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 wide body of supporting literature. Throughout your project you will be supported and supervised by an academic who has expertise in your chosen area of study.

Core skills training

To equip you with the scientific skills needed for your career you will have access to our state-of-the-art laboratories. Throughout your first and second year, you will take laboratory classes most weeks to develop practical, analytical, observational and interpretative skills.

Practical support

During practical workshops you will benefit from a multi-tiered support structure. In addition to your lead lecturer you can engage with a variety of academic staff. This offers an invaluable opportunity to forge new networks and gain insight into news or research taking place within the school.

Benefit from networking opportunities with:

Lead demonstrators
Postgraduate student demonstrators
Laboratory technicians
Core skills videos and laboratory simulations
Data analysis workshops

We provide you with the opportunity to align your Biochemistry and Biology BSc to your career aspirations and interests by choosing from a variety of optional modules in your final year.

Gain practical experience in industry

We understand the importance of producing graduates ready for the workplace or further study. Paid or voluntary experience in a specific area of biochemistry will not only demonstrate your commitment and passion, but will also enable you to make meaningful connections by networking with experts in the field. From placements and a year working in industry to paid internships, summer research projects and practical modules, there are opportunities available throughout our programme to enhance your employability.

International year

In between years two and three of your studies you can choose to spend 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.

Student Support

We offer a multi layered student support structure to help you meet your academic and personal needs. Our open-door policy enables you to engage with us directly, meaning you can seek support, gain feedback or discuss any matters on a regular basis.

You will benefit from the support of the dedicated Faculty Student Experience and Support team who offer advice, guidance and one to one support to students within the School of Life Sciences. Additionally you will be assigned an academic mentor who will support you throughout your degree. Our robust student support system also includes a dedicated placements officer and disability liaison officer, should you need this additional support.

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 biochemistry and medicinal chemistry 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.

Next Steps

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Related Courses

Accreditation and professional recognition

This programme is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology if you specialise in Biochemistry, or the Royal Society of Chemistry if you specialise in Medicinal Chemistry. Graduates from accredited degree programmes are equipped with well-rounded knowledge and skill sets, making them highly employable both within and beyond their chosen field.

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Additional opportunities

Foundation year Placement year International year 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

Keele strives to be a place where learning, living and working is a positive experience for our entire community, and 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.

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.

A Level requirements

A Level requirement ABC/BBB
A level Chemistry at grade B or above.
No Science Practical required.

GCSE requirements

Maths at C (or 4)
English at C (or 4)

BTEC

BTEC requirements DDM in a Science based subject. You must have taken sufficient Chemistry units, please contact us for advice

International Baccalaureate

H5, H5, H5 or 30 points overall to include Higher Level Chemistry at 5

Access to HE Diploma requirements

Obtain Access to Higher Education Diploma with 122 UCAS Tariff points including a minimum of 30 Level 3 credits at Distinction in Chemistry related units.

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.

Preparation programmes for international students

International students who do not meet the direct entry requirements for this course have the opportunity to study an International Foundation Year programme.

These courses are designed to prepare international students to enter into Keele University undergraduate degrees.

Next Steps

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.

Additional information

A Level requirements

A Level requirement ABC/BBB
A level Chemistry at grade B or above.
No Science Practical required.

GCSE requirements

Maths at C (or 4)
English at C (or 4)

BTEC

BTEC requirements DDM in a Science based subject. You must have taken sufficient Chemistry units, please contact us for advice

International Baccalaureate

H5, H5, H5 or 30 points overall to include Higher Level Chemistry at 5

Access to HE Diploma requirements

Obtain Access to Higher Education Diploma with 122 UCAS Tariff points including a minimum of 30 Level 3 credits at Distinction in Chemistry related units.

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 .

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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What is it like to be a Medicinal Chemistry student at Keele?

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Your future career

95% of our students are in employment or further study within 15 months of finishing their studies (HESA Graduate Outcomes, 2019/20)

You will graduate with a strong set of transferable skills suited to a range of roles in the science, education and health sectors. You may also wish to further your knowledge by progressing to postgraduate study.

Key skills you can develop include:

Data management and analysis
Research
Communication - through report writing and presentations
Problem-solving and creative thinking
Teamworking

Our diverse laboratory programme will also develop your skills in a wide range of modern preparative and analytical biochemical techniques. You will acquire competency in core molecular and micro biology techniques, including PCR and gene cloning, as well as research and diagnostic methods utilising antibodies.

Careers and routes directly related to this degree include:

Analytical chemist
Toxicologist
Pharmacologist
Physician associate
Forensic scientist
Science teacher
Postgraduate study
Research and development
Medicinal Chemist
Pharmaceutical Scientist

Keele Careers and Employability Team

Our Careers and Employability team (Shortlisted for Best University Careers Employment Service - National Undergraduate Employability Awards, 2021), offer a variety of personal and career development opportunities to enhance your employability. From mock interviews, careers guidance and CV advice, to careers fairs, alumni mentoring and networking events, along with helping you find part-time and graduate employment - the team will support you throughout your studies and beyond.

Find out more about our careers and employability services, including career planning, alumni mentoring, jobs, internships, starting your own business and much more.

Next Steps

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Learn from inspiring and award-winning academics

A dynamic group of staff with a broad range of expertise teach on the programme and bring a wealth of experience acquired through fundamental and applied research across a diverse range of areas.

In the Chemistry departmeny many of our teaching staff are Fellows or Senior Fellows of the Higher Education Academy, the professional body for teachers in Higher Education. Fellowship provides individuals with recognition of their practice, impact and leadership of teaching and learning.

A number of our academic staff have also achieved national recognition for their excellence and innovation in teaching and hold awards from a variety of institutions, including the Royal Society of Chemistry.
In testament to our teaching excellence, many of the teaching methods we use have been adopted by other chemistry departments in the UK and beyond.

Chemistry department award

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Teaching, learning and assessment

Diversity, flexibility and inclusivity are at the heart of our teaching. The student voice helps us to shape what we do and we include students and local employers in our decision-making process. Student representatives are elected from each year group on the programme, who hold regular meetings with their cohort and report back to the school through a student-staff voice committee, held at least once per semester.

Teaching in Biochemistry

Biochemistry at Keele has consistently ranked top 10 for overall student satisfaction (National Student Survey 2019-2021) and this is testament to our high-quality teaching and the ways in which we listen to student feedback and implement change for the better.

Teaching structure

We offer a hybrid delivery of teaching - online learning and in-person practicals. Our core content is designed for online consumption and this aims to provide you with the space and flexibility to digest at your own pace and to ask questions anonymously. To complement your core virtual learning, laboratory practicals, tutorials, seminars and workshops will take place on-campus.

Methods of teaching include:

Laboratory practicals
Online lectures
Live, campus-based seminars, tutorials and workshops

Assessments in Biochemistry

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
Journal entries
Online end-of-module open-book exams
Online tests
Final year independent research project

Teaching in Medicinal Chemistry

A dynamic group of staff with a broad range of expertise teach on the programme and bring a wealth of experience acquired through fundamental and applied research across a diverse range of areas. Many of our teaching staff are Fellows or Senior Fellows of the Higher Education Academy), the professional body for teachers in Higher Education. Fellowship provides individuals with recognition of their practice, impact and leadership of teaching and learning.

A number of our academic staff have also achieved national recognition for their excellence and innovation in teaching and hold awards from a variety of institutions, including the Royal Society of Chemistry. As testament to our teaching excellence, many of the teaching methods we use have been adopted by other chemistry departments in the UK and beyond. To ensure you receive a high-quality learning experience, teaching will be delivered through a diverse range of methods.

Methods of teaching include:

Lectures
Seminars
Interactive personal response systems
Screencasts
Recorded lectures
Tablet PCs
Demonstrations
Detailed personalised and generic written and face-to-face feedback
Electronic submission and return of marked coursework (with feedback)
Audio feedback
Pre-laboratory and post-laboratory exercises
Laboratory classes
Research projects
Problem classes and workshops
Team based learning
Problem-based and context-based activities
IT instruction (spread sheets, word-processing, chemical structure drawing, databases)
Group work
Self and peer-assessment for learning
Information literacy activities
Computer-aided learning (simulations and animations, online activities and exercises)
Case studies
Chemical Sciences Seminar Series
Use of e-learning/the Keele Learning Environment (KLE)

Assessments in Medicinal Chemistry

Our methods include a mix of examinations and a variety of authentic assessments that mirror the type of tasks you may be asked to complete in your future career working in the field of chemistry.

Methods of assessment may include:

Unseen written examinations
Pre-laboratory exercises
Laboratory reports and diaries
Practical and oral examinations
Class tests
Information retrieval exercises
Research projects and reports
Oral and poster presentations and reports
Video/screencast presentations
Problem sheets
Design exercises

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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 section 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. 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.

This Foundation Year is a is a two semester programme which provides a tailored pre-degree programme of study to better prepare you for the BSc (Hons) Cell and Tissue Engineering course. For example, the Foundations of Human Biology in Health module consolidates any prior learning of human biology to build your knowledge of the functioning of a healthy human body. Starting with a look at basic cell biology, you will explore the main types of body tissues and structures and discuss how body systems work.

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.

On this Foundation Year, we will advance your knowledge of human biology and chemistry, giving you a solid grasp of body systems, science and lab work. You'll develop safe, professional laboratory skills and get to know the mathematical techniques and quantitative methods used across health science-related and social care programmes.

Throughout the programme, you will develop subject-specific and broad based skills that will be invaluable in your academic career and beyond. You can find out more about our Foundation Year, including information on learning, teaching and assessment methods and further opportunities available to you by visiting our 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-00237	Foundations of Human Biology for Health	15 credits
FYO-00189	Foundations in Chemistry	15 credits
FYO-00213	Foundations of Numerical and Quantitative Methods for Health Students	15 credits
FYO-00185	Practical and Academic Skills in Science	15 credits

Semester Two Modules

FYO-00239	Advancing Human Biology for Health	30 credits
FYO-00191	Advancing Chemistry for Health	30 credits

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Between 40-56 UCAS points from at least 1 A level/level 3 qualification or equivalent, or
Relevant work experience

AND

GCSE English Language at grade 4 (C), or Level 2 Functional Skills, or
IELTS 5.5 (with 5.5 in all subtests)

AND

GCSE Mathematics at grade 4 (C) or above

How to Apply

UCAS Applications

Visit UCAS for applications. You should apply for Bioengineering (Regenerative Medicine) with Foundation Year through UCAS at www.ucas.com.

UCAS code: C111

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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