BSc Biochemistry

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The Biochemistry BSc at the University of Exeter offers an exciting journey into the molecular and cellular processes that underpin life. It’s perfect for students curious about how biology, chemistry, and molecular science combine to explain health, disease, and biotechnology innovations.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1:
Students build a solid foundation in biochemistry, exploring essential concepts in chemistry, molecular biology, and cell biology. Core modules include Biological Chemistry, Cell Biology, and Practical Skills in Biochemistry, providing hands-on lab experience and a deep understanding of life at the molecular level.

Year 2:
The second year deepens understanding of biochemical pathways and molecular mechanisms, with modules like Enzyme Mechanisms, Genetics and Genomics, and Protein Structure and Function. Students develop practical laboratory skills, including molecular cloning and protein analysis, preparing them for independent research.

Year 3:
In the final year, students engage in specialized topics and independent research. Modules such as Advanced Metabolism, Molecular Biophysics, and a Research Project in Biochemistry allow students to explore areas of personal interest while developing critical analytical and experimental skills.

Focus Areas: molecular biology, enzymology, genetics, protein chemistry, biotechnology, cellular biochemistry

Learning Outcomes: ability to design and conduct experiments, analyze biochemical data, understand molecular mechanisms of life, communicate scientific findings effectively

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB)

Reputation (Employability Rankings): consistently ranked among the top UK universities for biosciences by the Guardian University Guide and QS World University Rankings, with strong graduate employability

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Exeter, Biochemistry isn’t just about studying from textbooks — it’s about rolling up your sleeves and experiencing science firsthand. From day one, you’ll get hands-on in modern labs, using real research tools and techniques to explore the molecular world. The program is designed so that you learn by doing: carrying out experiments, analyzing real data, working in teams, and even contributing to ongoing research projects. You’ll leave not only with knowledge, but with practical skills, confidence, and a sense of how science works in the real world.

Here’s how your practical experience will shape your studies:

Independent Research Project: In your final year, you’ll design and carry out your own research, choosing from lab-based, field-based, bioinformatics, or literature projects, and presenting your findings like a professional scientist.
Professional Placement Option: You can opt for a year in industry or business, gaining real-world experience and building professional connections before you graduate.
Lab Internships: Through specialized programs, you can undertake paid internships in Exeter’s top-tier labs, including the Centre for Cytomics, the Living Systems Institute, or the Aquatic Resources Centre.
State-of-the-art Facilities: Work with advanced equipment such as confocal and electron microscopes, single-cell analysis tools, and next-generation sequencing platforms.
Aquatic and Plant Growth Labs: Explore live organisms in aquaria rooms and greenhouses, applying biochemical techniques in unique experimental settings.
Collaborative Research Culture: Learn alongside researchers, PhD students, and postdocs, gaining insights into cutting-edge science and building a strong professional network.

All of these experiences ensure that when you graduate, you’re ready to step confidently into research, industry, or further study with real-world skills and hands-on expertise.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a Biochemistry degree from Exeter opens doors to a wide range of exciting careers where you can make a real impact. Many of our graduates step into roles like laboratory technician, research scientist, biotechnologist, or data analyst, working in innovative life sciences, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology companies. Exeter equips you with both the practical skills and professional confidence to thrive in these roles:

Career Zone Support: Dedicated biosciences career services guide you with tailored workshops, networking events, mock interviews, and personal development programs like the Exeter Award to build your professional profile.
Professional Placements: Gain real-world experience with top companies including AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline, and Eurofins, enhancing your employability and industry insight.
University–Industry Partnerships: Work alongside researchers on collaborative projects, industrial fellowships, and consultancy opportunities through Exeter’s Business Engagement & Innovation initiatives.
Long-term Accreditation Value: Your degree carries the credibility of Exeter’s research reputation and strong industry ties, giving you a head start whether you enter employment or continue your studies.
Graduation Outcomes: Our biosciences graduates find roles in sectors such as science & research, healthcare, data & technology, and even policy or business, demonstrating the versatility of the degree.

Further Academic Progression:
After your BSc, you can continue your studies through postgraduate programs such as an MRes in Advanced Biological Sciences, which provides hands-on research experience across multiple projects. You could also pursue a PhD, for example through the BBSRC South West Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership (SWBio), or upgrade to a 4-year MSci Biochemistry, which offers advanced research opportunities and prepares you for specialist scientific careers.