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School of Life Sciences

Biochemistry

(MSci) Biochemistry

Entry for 2022

FHEQ level

This course is set at Level 7 (Masters) in the national Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.

Course learning outcomes

Demonstrate a systematic understanding of the processes and mechanisms of life, from molecules to cells and organisms that is informed by current biochemical research.

Explain the chemical and thermodynamic principles underlying biochemical reactions and demonstrate understanding of the techniques used to investigate them.

Explain the principles that determine the 3-D structure of biological macromolecules and be able to discuss detailed examples for how structure enables function.

Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of the molecular basis of genetics and genetic disease, including the structure, expression, and regulation of genes, and the effects of mutations on cellular function.

Evaluate the ways in which prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells are suited to their biological functions and how their properties can be investigated.

Devise, undertake and communicate independent research that investigates relevant areas of biochemistry and molecular biology.

Demonstrate knowledge and a critical understanding of cell metabolism and its control, including topics such as respiration, signal transduction, and the role and regulation of enzymes.

Demonstrate an appreciation of the current social and ethical impact of advances in biochemistry and molecular biology.

Work effectively in groups whose members are from diverse backgrounds.

Record data accurately, and to carry out basic manipulation of qualitative and quantitative data including statistical analysis when appropriate.

Demonstrate familiarity and practical competence in one or more laboratory (or bioinformatic) methods used in contemporary research in Biochemistry.

Demonstrate oral and written communication skills needed to write a scientific paper and to present findings in a research seminar.

Full-time course composition

YearTermStatusModuleCreditsFHEQ level
1Autumn SemesterCoreAcademic Skills in Life Sciences (C7161)154
  CoreHuman Physiology (C1102)154
  CoreIntroduction to Organic Chemistry (F1144)154
  CoreMolecular Biology (C7004)154
 Spring SemesterCoreBiological Chemistry (C7024)154
  CoreCell Biology (C7141)154
  CoreIntroduction to Metabolism and Pharmacology (C7135)154
  CoreResearch Methods in Biochemistry (C7011)154
YearTermStatusModuleCreditsFHEQ level
2Autumn SemesterCoreCell Regulation and Cancer (C7108)155
  CoreGenetics and Genomics (C7110)155
  CorePrinciples of Neuronal Function and Dysfunction (C1016)155
  CoreStructural Basis of Biological Function (C7114)155
 Spring SemesterCoreClinical Biochemistry (C7020)155
  CoreCombating Disease (C7140)155
  CoreExperimental Biochemistry (C1053)155
  CoreOrganic and Bioinorganic Chemistry (F1128)155
YearTermStatusModuleCreditsFHEQ level
3Autumn SemesterCoreLife Science Bioscience Third Year Research Project (C7162)306
  CoreRegulating Gene Expression (C7132)156
  OptionCell Signalling and its Applications in Therapeutics and Disease (C7118)156
  Communicating STEM (899S4)156
  Immunology in Health and Disease (C7121)156
  Synaptic Communication (C1120)156
 Spring SemesterOptionBio-organic Chemistry (F1007)156
  Genome Stability, Genetic Diseases and Cancer (C7129)156
  Genomics and Bioinformatics (C7120)156
  Innovation in Bioscience and Medicine (C7117)156
  Molecular Neuropharmacology (C7128)156
  Protein Form and Function (C7124)156
YearTermStatusModuleCreditsFHEQ level
4Autumn SemesterCoreAdvanced Methods in Molecular Research (806C7)307
  OptionFundamentals of Cancer Cell Biology (817C8)157
  Practical Techniques in Cancer Cell Biology (802C2)307
  Practical Techniques in Cancer Cell Biology (802C2D)307
  Practical Techniques in Cell and Molecular Biology (801C2D)307
  Practical Techniques in Cell and Molecular Biology (801C2)307
  Principles and Practices in Drug Discovery and Delivery (F1605)157
  Skills for Research Bioscientists (869C2)157
 Spring SemesterCoreLife Sciences MSci research project (805C7)607

Please note that the University will use all reasonable endeavours to deliver courses and modules in accordance with the descriptions set out here. However, the University keeps its courses and modules under review with the aim of enhancing quality. Some changes may therefore be made to the form or content of courses or modules shown as part of the normal process of curriculum management.

The University reserves the right to make changes to the contents or methods of delivery of, or to discontinue, merge or combine modules, if such action is reasonably considered necessary by the University. If there are not sufficient student numbers to make a module viable, the University reserves the right to cancel such a module. If the University withdraws or discontinues a module, it will use its reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable alternative module.