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The BSc Biochemistry at Royal Holloway gives you a deep understanding of the molecular and cellular processes that underpin life, health, and disease. This program is perfect for students fascinated by how biological systems work at a molecular level and eager to combine theory with hands-on laboratory experience.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Foundations in Biochemistry :
In your first year, you’ll build a solid foundation in key scientific principles. Modules like Cell Biology and the Origin of Life introduce the fundamentals of cellular structures and functions, while Chemistry of Life and Fundamental Biochemistry help you understand the chemical processes driving biological systems. You’ll also study Genetics and Protein Biochemistry and Enzymology to get a head start on molecular biology concepts.
Year 2: Exploring Specialized Topics :
The second year deepens your knowledge with more focused study and practical skills. Molecular Biology and Protein Structure and Function let you explore genes and proteins in detail, while Bioenergetics and Metabolism teaches you how energy flows through living systems. You’ll also have the opportunity to study applied areas such as Immunology, Neuroscience, Pharmacology, and Cancer Biology, preparing you for a wide range of scientific careers.
Year 3: Independent Research and Advanced Study :
In your final year, you’ll tailor your studies to your interests and carry out independent research. The Individual Research Project lets you design and conduct your own experiment, while Advanced Biochemistry Topics and a range of Specialized Electives allow you to explore cutting-edge developments in the field.
Focus Areas : Biochemistry principles, molecular biology, enzymology, metabolism, genetics, immunology, pharmacology, cancer biology, endocrinology, neuroscience
Learning Outcomes : By the end of the program, you’ll have a thorough understanding of biochemical processes, strong laboratory skills, critical thinking abilities, and the experience to carry out independent research projects.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation) : The program is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, ensuring that your degree meets professional standards and is recognized in the field.
Reputation (Employability Rankings) : Royal Holloway is consistently ranked among the top UK universities for biological sciences, with graduates enjoying strong employability and career prospects.
At Royal Holloway, the BSc Biochemistry program is designed to give you plenty of hands-on experience alongside your lectures. You’ll develop practical lab skills, work on collaborative projects, and get access to cutting-edge facilities, preparing you for careers in biochemistry and related fields. Field-based practicals and real-world applications ensure that you can see how the concepts you learn in class translate into real science.
Here’s how you’ll gain practical experience:
Bourne Laboratory – Work with modern instruments and equipment for biochemical analysis, supporting a variety of experiments and research projects.
Collaborative Research Projects – Join interdisciplinary projects, sometimes in partnership with industry or healthcare organizations, giving you valuable practical experience.
Field-based Practicals – Take part in field trips and hands-on sessions that complement lab work, showing biochemistry in natural and applied settings.
Access to Research Facilities – Use advanced research labs in the Department of Biological Sciences to carry out high-quality experiments.
Career Development Support – Receive guidance and resources from the Careers Service to help secure placements, internships, and future employment.
Graduating with a BSc in Biochemistry from Royal Holloway opens doors to a wide range of exciting careers in healthcare, research, and the biotechnology sector. With a strong foundation in biochemical principles and hands-on laboratory experience, graduates are well-prepared for roles such as analytical chemist, biomedical scientist, biotechnologist, clinical biochemist, healthcare scientist, clinical research associate, forensic scientist, nanotechnologist, pharmaceutical researcher, or regulatory affairs specialist.
Here’s how Royal Holloway supports your career journey:
Careers Service – Personalized guidance, CV workshops, interview preparation, and access to job listings help you secure employment.
Industry Partnerships – Collaborations with organizations like the NHS, pharmaceutical companies, and research institutions offer internships and practical work experience.
Research Opportunities – Engage in research projects during your studies to gain hands-on experience and enhance your employability.
Graduate Outcomes
Around 90% of graduates are employed or pursuing further study within 15 months of graduation.
Typical starting salaries are around £25,000, with experienced professionals earning up to £31,500.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing your BSc, you can continue your studies through:
Master’s Degrees in areas such as Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, or Biotechnology.
PhD Programs in Biochemistry or related fields for advanced research careers.
Professional Qualifications in Clinical Biochemistry or Regulatory Affairs to specialize further.
These options allow you to deepen your expertise, specialize in your area of interest, and advance your career in the biosciences sector.
A Levels : ABB - Biology plus another Science from Applied Science, Chemistry, Maths, Further Maths, Statistics, Computer Science, Physics or Psychology.IB : 32 points overall including 5 in either Chemistry, Maths or Physics at Higher LevelGCSE : At least five GCSEs at grade A*-C or 9-4 including English and Mathematics.IELTS: 6.5 overall, with no subscore lower than 5.5for India : grade of 80% overall in your Higher Secondary School Certificatefor USA : SAT & ACT: Achieve SAT 1100 or ACT 24 (including writing).for USA : Advanced Placement (AP): Achieve a grade of 4 in at least two relevant AP examsAnalytical ChemistBiomedical ScientistBiotechnologistHealthcare ScientistClinical BiochemistClinical Research AssociateForensic ScientistNanotechnologistPharmaceutical ScientistToxicologistQuality Control Specialist
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Royal Holloway University of London
