Biochemistry, Medical BSc (Hons)

Our Royal Society of Biology accredited Medical Biochemistry degree explores the molecular nuts and bolts of living organism, with particular emphasis on disease and avenues for therapy.

Advances in the biosciences are having a profound impact on our daily lives, from human health to conservation, making it a hugely rewarding area to study and work in. Studying at Birmingham means you'll benefit from high-technology facilities and teaching from world-renowned experts in their field.

The Medical Biochemistry course builds on the framework of our Biochemistry programmes, with a diverse range of optional modules in second and final year. We start with the foundations of chemistry, cell biology and genetics and lead you right up to cutting-edge research questions in the final year.

This flexible course provides you with the opportunity to tailor a degree to match your own interests and goals, and have the unprecedented opportunity to join one of our research groups, working on live research projects. The course combines practical work and theory allowing you to develop a wide range of skills and knowledge.

This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology. Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers.

Typical Careers

Advances in the biosciences are having a profound impact on our daily lives in areas from human health to conservation. Biotechnology, biological pharmaceuticals, and personalised medicine are key growth areas in the health sector. Over the next decade our increasing understanding of how genomes are regulated will revolutionise how we interact with the natural world. Environmental remediation, climate change and related themes pose multi-faceted challenges for the coming decades. Expert knowledge in biology and the life sciences will be in high demand for the foreseeable future, with excellent prospects for exciting and rewarding careers in research, education, media, industry, the NHS and the public sector.

A significant number of our graduates choose to take a further degree, a postgraduate Masters or PhD. For many career paths, a further degree is an essential stepping-stone, including (but not limited to) careers in research. While many of our graduates remain in Birmingham and join one of our prestigious research groups, they are also highly sought after by universities around the world.

Developing your career

Careers Network, our unique careers guidance service is tailored to your academic subject area. Our team source exclusive work experience opportunities to help you stand out amongst the competition, with mentoring, global internships and placements available to you. Once you have a career in your sights, one-to-one support with CVs and job applications will help give you the edge. In addition, our employer-endorsed award-winning Personal Skills Award (PSA) recognises your extra-curricular activities, and provides an accredited employability programme designed to improve your career prospects.