Biochemistry MSci (Hons)

Biochemistry examines the structure and function of living organisms at the molecular level. It is an exciting and rapidly developing subject and the primary investigative science within biology and medicine.

Our four-year MSci Biochemistry includes core modules in biochemistry and chemistry combined with modules in related fields. You will take modules that allow you to focus on biochemistry, including modules taught in the Chemistry department. Lancaster University is ranked fifth in the UK for biological sciences by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2019.

The MSci is a four-year integrated master’s with three years of undergraduate study followed by a year of study at master’s level. The additional year of study and higher qualification can enhance your job prospects, or give you the experience to decide whether a research career might be for you.

In the first year, you will study a range of core modules designed to provide you with a broad overview of biology and chemistry, including modules on Protein Biochemistry, Atoms and Molecules, Biotechnology and Cell Structure and Function – all designed to give you a good foundation in key modern biochemical concepts.

In your second year, you will focus on a range of biochemistry modules, including Cell Biology and Genetics, as well as some more practically oriented modules designed to equip you with the laboratory skills and knowledge required by a successful biochemist. Module options in your third year include Innovation in the Biosciences and Neurobiology.

The fourth year of the MSci is master’s level study and focuses on advanced topics in biochemistry including optional modules such as Molecular Basis of Cancer and Bioinformatics.

During your MSci, you will conduct your own laboratory-based project and benefit from the research experience of our internationally renowned academics. The facilities for studying biochemistry at Lancaster University are excellent. We have invested over £4 million in new life science teaching laboratories, which you will use for practical learning and your dissertation project. Around 50% of the contact time on the degree is used for practical and workshop activities in the laboratory or in PC labs.

Careers

Lancaster University is ranked first in the North West - and third in the UK - for graduate prospects by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2019.

After studying biochemistry at Lancaster University, you can look forward to a promising career in areas such as academic, industrial and medical research, pharmaceuticals, the food industry and forensic science. 90% of Lancaster’s biochemistry graduates are in work or further study six months after graduating, 65% of those in employment are in professional or managerial positions (Unistats 2019).

You will gain practical skills such as laboratory competence and experimental design; numerical skills such as statistical analysis, data recording and presentation; and interpersonal skills such as team working, communication and negotiation. Alternatively, our MSci Biochemistry is an ideal base from which to continue on to further postgraduate or PhD study. The transferable skills and analytical training you will gain during your degree will allow you to enter science or diverse fields including management, marketing and finance.