MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
BSc (Hons) Biochemistry (with an industrial placement year)
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BSc (Hons) Biochemistry (with an Industrial Placement Year) at the University of Sussex provides students with a solid foundation in the molecular and cellular processes that underpin life. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory skills, offering an in-depth understanding of biochemistry, molecular biology, and related disciplines. With a focus on the application of biochemical principles in the real world, this course also incorporates an industrial placement year, allowing students to gain valuable hands-on experience in a professional setting. By the end of the program, students are equipped with the expertise needed for careers in research, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BSc (Hons) Biochemistry program is designed to give students a comprehensive understanding of the biochemical processes that drive cellular function. The course covers key topics such as cell biology, protein structure, enzymology, genetics, and metabolic pathways, alongside more advanced subjects in molecular genetics, bioinformatics, and pharmacology. In the first two years, students build a strong theoretical base through lectures, seminars, and practical lab sessions. In the third year, students have the opportunity to gain industry experience through a year-long industrial placement in a relevant company or research organization. The final year of the program focuses on independent research projects, allowing students to explore specific biochemical topics of their choice. This combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience ensures that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the biochemistry field.
Research Focus: At the University of Sussex, research in biochemistry is central to the learning experience. The BSc (Hons) Biochemistry program is supported by the university’s extensive research expertise in areas such as molecular biology, protein biochemistry, structural biology, and biomedical science. Research activities span a variety of disciplines, from studying the molecular mechanisms of disease to investigating new drug therapies and genetic research. Students are encouraged to engage with cutting-edge research throughout their studies, benefiting from exposure to the latest advancements in biochemistry. In addition, students have the opportunity to participate in research projects during their industrial placement year, further enhancing their ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems.
Industry Engagement: The inclusion of an industrial placement year in the BSc (Hons) Biochemistry program provides students with invaluable experience in the biochemistry and biotechnology industries. Sussex has strong links with leading pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, and biotechnology firms, enabling students to gain practical experience in a professional environment. This year-long placement allows students to apply their academic learning in a real-world context, gaining insight into the scientific, technical, and business aspects of the industry. The placement year not only provides students with hands-on experience but also helps them develop a network of professional contacts, enhancing their employability upon graduation. The program’s industrial placement component is designed to give students a competitive edge in the job market, as it demonstrates both practical skills and the ability to work effectively in professional settings.
Global Perspective: The BSc (Hons) Biochemistry program at the University of Sussex offers a global perspective by integrating international research trends and global health challenges into the curriculum. The program highlights the importance of biochemistry in solving global issues such as emerging diseases, drug resistance, environmental sustainability, and public health. Students have the opportunity to engage with global scientific communities through collaborations, exchange programs, and international research conferences. The university's diverse student body and faculty bring a variety of global perspectives to the program, enriching the learning experience and preparing students for careers in an increasingly globalized scientific landscape. Graduates are well-prepared to contribute to the advancement of biochemistry on a global scale, whether in academia, industry, or healthcare.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 23750
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Biochemistry (with an Industrial Placement Year) program at the University of Sussex are equipped with the skills and knowledge to pursue a wide range of career opportunities in the life sciences, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and research industries. The program’s focus on both theoretical and practical biochemical knowledge, combined with the valuable industrial placement year, ensures that students are highly competitive in the job market.
Biochemist: Biochemists study the chemical processes within and related to living organisms. Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Biochemistry program can pursue roles as biochemists, working in research, development, and testing in sectors such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology. They apply their knowledge to understand diseases at the molecular level, develop new drugs, or improve production processes in various industries. Biochemists may work in laboratories, hospitals, or pharmaceutical companies, contributing to advancing medical treatments and improving public health.
Pharmaceutical Scientist: Pharmaceutical scientists play a crucial role in the development and testing of new drugs. With a solid foundation in biochemistry, graduates can pursue careers in pharmaceutical research, helping to discover and create innovative treatments for a range of conditions. This role involves understanding drug action, testing drug efficacy, and ensuring the safety of new medicines. Pharmaceutical scientists may work for large pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations, or governmental regulatory bodies.
Clinical Biochemist: Clinical biochemists are involved in analyzing patient samples in diagnostic laboratories to assess health conditions at the biochemical level. Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Biochemistry program may pursue careers in clinical biochemistry, working in hospitals or healthcare settings to perform laboratory tests that help diagnose diseases such as cancer, diabetes, or cardiovascular conditions. They use advanced biochemical techniques to analyze blood, urine, and tissue samples to provide essential information to medical teams.
Research Scientist: As a research scientist, graduates of the BSc (Hons) Biochemistry program can contribute to cutting-edge scientific research in academia, biotechnology firms, or government-funded laboratories. Research scientists focus on advancing knowledge in areas such as molecular biology, protein chemistry, and disease mechanisms. They may work on developing new therapies, improving diagnostic techniques, or exploring the molecular biology of pathogens. The program’s emphasis on research skills prepares graduates to conduct independent investigations and contribute to scientific publications.
Biotechnology Scientist: Biotechnology scientists use biological organisms or systems to develop products and technologies in industries such as agriculture, healthcare, and environmental science. Graduates with a biochemistry background are well-suited for roles in biotechnology, where they work on creating new bio-based products, such as biofuels, medicines, and genetically modified organisms. Biotechnology scientists work in laboratories, research institutions, or companies specializing in the development of bio-based technologies.
Environmental Biochemist: Environmental biochemists apply biochemistry principles to environmental issues, such as pollution, waste management, and sustainability. Graduates can work for environmental agencies, consultancy firms, or governmental bodies, assessing the impact of chemicals and pollutants on ecosystems. They may also work on developing solutions for environmental cleanup, renewable energy production, or sustainable agriculture practices. Their role is essential in tackling global environmental challenges.
Forensic Scientist: Forensic scientists apply biochemistry and molecular biology techniques to solve crimes. Graduates with a strong background in biochemistry can pursue forensic science careers, working in law enforcement or private agencies to analyze evidence such as DNA, blood, and other biological materials. Forensic biochemists help identify perpetrators, determine causes of death, and contribute to criminal investigations. Their expertise in biochemical analysis is crucial for ensuring justice in the legal system.
Medical Scientist: Medical scientists conduct research to improve the overall health and treatment of diseases. They apply biochemical principles to research drug interactions, diagnostic techniques, and potential treatments. Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Biochemistry program can pursue careers in medical research, working in hospitals, clinics, or private research organizations. Their work may involve investigating disease mechanisms, testing new therapies, or conducting clinical trials.
Quality Control/Assurance Scientist: In industries such as pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, quality control (QC) and quality assurance (QA) scientists ensure that products meet the required standards of safety, efficacy, and quality. Biochemistry graduates can work in QC and QA roles to monitor and test products at various stages of production. This can include ensuring that pharmaceutical drugs are produced according to regulatory standards and conducting tests on raw materials and final products.
Scientific Sales/Marketing Representative: Graduates with strong communication skills and a background in biochemistry may choose to pursue careers in scientific sales or marketing. In these roles, they would work for companies that sell laboratory equipment, reagents, or biotechnological products, communicating the value of these products to potential clients. Scientific sales representatives bridge the gap between science and business, helping to drive the growth of companies in the scientific and healthcare industries.
Regulatory Affairs Specialist: Regulatory affairs specialists ensure that new products in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and healthcare sectors comply with relevant laws and regulations. They play an important role in helping companies navigate the complex process of gaining regulatory approval for new drugs, medical devices, and other products. Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Biochemistry program are well-positioned for regulatory affairs roles, as they understand the scientific and technical aspects of product development, as well as the legal requirements involved.
Bioinformatics Specialist: With a growing reliance on computational tools to analyze biological data, bioinformatics specialists combine biochemistry knowledge with data science to process and interpret large datasets. These professionals work in the fields of genomics, proteomics, and drug discovery, helping to decode complex biological information. Bioinformatics specialists are in demand across research organizations, pharmaceutical companies, and universities, making this an exciting career option for biochemistry graduates with an interest in computer science and data analysis.
