Biochemistry

Course overview

Dive into the molecular world and unlock solutions to global challenges! Our BSc (Hons) Biochemistry programme at Aston University places you at the cutting edge of discovery. You'll delve into the molecular 'nuts and bolts' of proteins to drive innovative drug discovery, learn to design and build novel biological solutions using synthetic biology, and engage with revolutionary technologies like organ-on-a-chip that are transforming how we study life and disease. Join us at the forefront of this dynamic and vital scientific field.

This degree equips you with a deep understanding of biochemical principles and the practical, computational, and analytical skills demanded by employers. You'll explore the intricate mechanisms of life, from biomolecules to complex biological systems, while also delving into cutting-edge areas like bioinformatics, computational modelling, and synthetic biology.

Choose the pathway that suits your ambitions:

4-Year Programme - full-time, with integrated placement year: Gain invaluable real-world experience, enhance your CV, and often secure graduate roles through our highly recommended, transformative placement year. This is the pathway most Aston Biochemistry students choose for its proven career benefits.
3-Year Programme - full-time: A focused route for those seeking direct progression to further study or specific career paths that do not require an industrial placement.

Whichever route you choose, you'll benefit from hands-on laboratory work in state-of-the-art facilities, expert teaching informed by the latest research, and a curriculum designed to develop not just your scientific knowledge, but also your leadership potential and professional skills. As an Aston Biochemistry graduate, you'll be empowered to contribute meaningfully to fields like medicine, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and environmental science.

Johns Simms course director biochemistry

"Biochemistry is all about understanding living things at the molecular level. At Aston, we have a real focus on the application of knowledge, and emphasise experimental design, data interpretation and problem solving."

Dr John Simms

BSc (Hons) Biochemistry

Programme Director and Senior Lecturer

Why Biochemistry at Aston University?

Professionally accredited

Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB).

Placement year

Integrated placement year designed to set your studies in a real world context

Gold standard teaching

Aston University was awarded Triple Gold - the highest possible rating for the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF, 2023)

Excellent student experience

94% of students felt positive about teaching on their course (NSS 2024)

Earn more

Our graduates are among the highest paid in the country, earning on average £36,100 five years after graduating (Longitudinal Education Outcomes, 2023)

Excellent prospects

Aston University was named runner-up in the University of the Year for Graduate Employment Award (Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide, 2024)

Highlights of studying BSc (Hons) Biochemistry

Aston Biochemistry student Mina talks about the highlights of studying BSc (Hons) Biochemistry!

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Course description

BSc (Hons) Biochemistry

Our BSc (Hons) Biochemistry degree is designed to cultivate your scientific curiosity and equip you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to excel.

What we will provide

Inspiring Teaching: Learn from passionate academics and researchers in the UK's vibrant second city. Our staff bring diverse expertise to stimulate your learning.
Industry-Relevant Learning: Benefit from our strong industry connections, ensuring your learning is grounded in real-world applications and challenges.
Supportive Environment: We foster a collaborative atmosphere where you can thrive academically and personally.

What you will provide
It is important you learn how to adapt a growth mindset to your studies - understand that intelligence and success come from applying yourself, you must be able to demonstrate critical thinking and have ambition and drive to excel.

What skills we teach
This programme goes beyond textbook knowledge. You will cultivate a comprehensive skillset essential for a successful scientific career:

Advanced laboratory techniques: Master core biochemical methods and instrumentation.
Data analysis and interpretation: Learn to handle complex biological data, including statistical analysis. •
Computational ad bioinformatics skills: Utilise software for molecular modelling, sequence analysis, database mining, and interpreting large datasets.
Synthetic biology principles: Understand the design and construction of new biological parts, devices, and systems.
Critical thinking and problem solving: Analyse complex biological problems and devise innovative solutions.
Communication: Effectively present scientific findings in written reports, oral presentations, and discussions.
Teamwork and collaboration: Work effectively in groups on projects and laboratory tasks.
Leadership and project management: Develop skills in leading group activities, managing research project timelines, presenting findings persuasively, and making informed decisions ethically, such as leading practical group analysis, managing mini-project deadlines, coordinating team presentations, contributing to ethical reviews.
Professionalism and employability: Gain insights into scientific careers, ethical conduct, and lifelong learning.

The Placement Year (Optional but highly recommended - Year 3 of 4-Year Route)
Aston University pioneered the integrated placement year, and we firmly believe it offers a truly transformative experience. It's a cornerstone of our high graduate employability rates. This optional year allows you to:

Apply your knowledge: Put academic theory into practice in a professional setting (for example, research institute, hospital lab, pharmaceutical company, biotech start-up, or even non-lab roles like scientific communication or policy).
Gain invaluable experience: Develop practical skills, industry insights, and professional networks that give you a significant competitive edge.
Enhance employability: Many students receive graduate job offers from their placement providers. It clarifies career goals and builds confidence.
Develop professional skills: Improve teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and time management in a real-world context.

While we strongly encourage the placement year for its profound benefits, the 3-year option provides flexibility for those with different postgraduate or career plans, for example, medicine or law.

Career prospects
The demand for skilled biochemists is strong and growing globally. Your Aston Biochemistry degree opens doors to diverse and rewarding careers where you can make a real impact. Potential destinations include:

Research and development (pharmaceuticals, biotechnology or academia)
Computational biology and bioinformatics roles • Clinical biochemistry (such as working in NHS labs)
Synthetic biology applications
Scientific communication and journalism
Forensic science
Patent law (with further qualification)
Sales, marketing and management in scientific industries
Environmental monitoring and biotechnology
Food science and nutrition Furthermore, this degree provides an excellent foundation for:
Postgraduate study (MSc, PhD) • Graduate entry medicine, dentistry, or Law •
Teaching qualifications (PGCE)

How you will learn

Our teaching philosophy blends rigorous academic theory with extensive hands-on practice. You'll experience:

Interactive lectures and seminars
Practical laboratory sessions
Computational workshops (modelling, bioinformatics)
Problem-based learning scenarios
Group projects and presentations
Independent research
Interprofessional learning opportunities (especially during placement)

The 4-year course includes the integrated placement year. The 3-year course follows the same academic structure but without the placement year.

What you will learn

Year 1

Build foundational knowledge in biomolecules, cell biology, genetics, microbiology, and metabolism. Develop core laboratory and transferable skills.

Year 2

Delve deeper into molecular biology, biotechnology, pathology, cell membranes, and protein structure/function. Apply concepts to experimental problems and begin integrating computational approaches where relevant. Enhance research and teamwork skills.

Placement year (year 3 on 4-year route)

Apply your learning in a professional environment, gain industry experience, and develop workplace skills.

Final year (year 3 on 3-year route / year 4 on 4-year route)

Conduct an independent research project, choose from advanced optional modules reflecting staff research strengths (potentially including advanced computational biology or synthetic biology topics), and hone your professional skills for graduation and beyond.

Facilities

You’ll study in a professional scientific environment:

Modern teaching and research labs: In addition to well-equipped spaces designed for hands-on experiments, we also house state of the art cell culture facilities as well as chemistry labs.
Specialist equipment: Access industry-standard instrumentation including spectrometers (UV-Vis, Fluorescence), microscopes (confocal, electron), chromatography systems (HPLC, GC), cell culture facilities, and molecular biology tools.
Dedicated computer labs: Utilise powerful workstations equipped with specialised software for molecular modelling, bioinformatics analysis, data visualisation, and statistical processing.
Aston library: Access vast digital and print resources, scientific databases, e-journals, and quiet study spaces 24/7 during key periods.
Collaborative study areas: Spaces designed for group work and discussion. • Virtual Learning Environment: Comprehensive online access to course materials, lecture recordings, and resources.

Aston University 360 virtual lab walkthrough

Course objectives

Upon successful completion of this programme, you will be able to:

Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge and critical understanding of biochemical principles at the molecular level.
Apply theoretical knowledge and practical skills to solve complex biological problems.
Master a range of laboratory and computational techniques relevant to modern biochemistry.
Design experiments, analyse data critically, and draw robust conclusions.
Communicate scientific information effectively to diverse audiences using various media.
Work independently and collaboratively, demonstrating leadership potential and effective project management.
Apply ethical principles and safety regulations within a scientific context.
Critically evaluate scientific literature and engage in lifelong learning.
Understand the principles and applications of synthetic biology.
Utilise bioinformatics tools and databases for biological inquiry.

Modules

Modules and learning outcomes

Year 1 modules

In your first year, you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Biomolecules - Explore key biomolecules (sugars, lipids, DNA, RNA, amino acids and proteins), how they are formed, their structure and function. Includes a large practical laboratory component giving hands-on experience of key biochemical techniques that can be used to study these biomolecules.	30
Cells to Systems - Examine the basic structure, organisation and function of cells and sub-cellular structures. How cells communicate, the cell cycle, cell death, and how cells come together to forms tissues and organs with specialised functions.	30
Microbiology and Genetics - A comprehensive introduction to the basic principles and fundamental skills of microbiology, as well as the core concepts of genetics and the use of model organisms.	30
Molecular Metabolism - Explore the molecules, reactions, enzymes and regulation mechanisms involved in the major metabolic pathways, including key aspects of organic chemistry. In addition, this module develops your transferable and personal skills crucial for success in various career paths post-graduation.	30
Total	120

Year 1 outcomes

On successful completion of the first year, you will be able to:

Demonstrate knowledge of the structure, function, synthesis and degradation of biomolecules.
Describe how biomolecules assemble into complex structures including cells.
Describe the structures and key components of cells.
Describe how genetic material is stored and inherited.
Demonstrate knowledge of fundamental microbiological concepts.
Safely undertake laboratory work and demonstrate a range of transferable practical skills.
Demonstrate numeracy, oral and written communication skills including use of IT software and professionalism.

Year 2 modules

In your second year, you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Molecular Biology and Biotechnology - Find out how microbes, enzymes, mammalian cells and molecular genetic techniques can be utilised for biotechnology applications, molecular diagnostics and therapeutics.	30
Mechanisms of Pathology - Investigate the principles underlying pathology of a variety of diseases, how the immune system responds to infection or damage, and the ability of pathogens to cause cellular and tissue pathology.	30
Cell Membranes - In-depth coverage of the structure and function of biological membranes and their roles in transport, signalling processes and energy generation.	30
Protein Structure and Function - Explore in detail the structure and function of proteins along with the experimental techniques that can be used to study them. Develop transferable and research skills such as problem-solving, science communication, group work, and experimental design.	30
Total	120

Year 2 outcomes

On successful completion of the second year, you will be able to:

Integrate molecular knowledge to explain disease states.
Apply fundamental biochemical concepts to experimental and real-world
problems.
Explain the structure and function of biomolecules using fundamental chemistry,
Explain the role that cell signalling plays in life processes.
Select appropriate experimental approaches and test hypotheses including the application of statistical tests.
Apply critical thinking for problem-solving and demonstrate team-working skills.

Year 3 modules

In your third year, you will undertake a work placement:

Module Title	Credits
Biosciences placement: Gain valuable career-boosting experience by applying your academic knowledge in a real-world professional context. This year involves working alongside professionals in an industrial, clinical, research, or other relevant setting, significantly developing your practical, professional, and transferable skills.	120
Total	120

Year 3 outcomes

Placement Year Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of the placement year, you will be able to:

Reflect on your own performance and identify your strengths and limitations within a working environment.
Apply academic knowledge and practical skills effectively in a professional context.
Demonstrate enhanced professional behaviours, communication, and teamwork skills.
Manage tasks and time effectively in a workplace setting.

Final Year Modules (Year 3 on 3-Year Route / Year 4 on 4-Year Route)

In your final year, you will study the following core modules:

Module title	Credits
Research Project Preparation: Demonstrate practical competency in a range of fundamental biosciences techniques. Select and critically analyse relevant scientific literature for your project, including elements of health and safety legislation and appraisal of the ethical impacts of research.	15
Research Project: Undertake an independent research project. Generate, analyse, interpret, draw conclusions and present your findings in both written and oral formats.	30
Professional Development for Biochemists: Develop a range of research and translational skills, such as critical analysis of data, good practice and self-reflection, that will equip you to undertake scientific careers and demonstrate professional behaviour.	30
Total	75

You will also take three of the following optional modules for a total of 45 credits:

Module title	Credits
Advanced Cell Membranes: Explore cutting-edge research in membrane biology, focusing on Aston's expertise in membrane proteins, lipids, and their roles in health, disease, and biotechnology. Discuss advanced experimental techniques and potentially computational modelling approaches used to investigate membrane systems.	15
Advanced Molecular Biology: Master advanced molecular techniques central to modern biotechnology and research. Examine protein engineering (mutagenesis, directed evolution), gene editing technologies (a cornerstone of synthetic biology), advanced cloning strategies, and quantitative analysis (qPCR). Critically evaluate data from high-throughput methods like next-generation sequencing, incorporating bioinformatic analysis workflows.	15
Applied Microbiology: Gain deep insights into microbial systems and their exploitation. Focus on antibiotic mechanisms, the challenge of resistance, modern drug discovery pipelines (potentially involving bioinformatics and computational screening), and the intricacies of bacterial gene regulation relevant to biotechnological applications.	15
Pharmacology and Toxicology: Apply core pharmacological and toxicological principles to understand how drugs and toxins interact with biological systems at a molecular level. Develop advanced problem-solving, teamwork, and self-directed learning skills through case studies, focusing on interpreting complex experimental data and communicating scientific findings.	15
Trends in Molecular Biosciences: Master the art and science of communicating complex, cutting-edge bioscience topics (including areas like synthetic biology or computational findings). Analyse current trends and research breakthroughs and develop skills in designing communication strategies and materials tailored effectively for diverse audiences (e.g., public engagement, policy briefs, scientific outreach).	15
Total	45

Total Final Year Credits: 120

Final Year Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of the final year, you will be able to:

Critically review scientific literature.
Create and test hypotheses using appropriate methodologies (including experimental, computational or bioinformatic where applicable).
Gather, analyse, and interpret complex data from their own studies and those of others.
Critically reflect on their own research and development to identify pathways for improvement.
Communicate effectively through a variety of media to a range of audiences.
Work responsibly within health and safety and ethical regulations within a research environment, demonstrating professionalism and aspects of leadership.

We regularly review our modules to provide the best possible teaching and learning experience, incorporating academic developments, student feedback and employer feedback.

There may be some change to some of the modules on this course for 2026/27 entry.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any changes to modules at the earliest opportunity by updating our course web pages.

We’ll do our best to provide as much optional choice as we can, but timetabling constraints may mean it isn’t possible to take some module combinations. The structure of some courses means that the order of modules or the streams you choose may determine whether modules are core or optional. This means that your core modules or options may differ from what’s shown here.

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Gain the skills employers look for worldwide.
As an Aston student, you will develop expertise in four key areas:

AI & Digital

Join the rise of the humans. Don't fear AI, master it and use it for good. Develop digital skills for the future, whatever career you want to pursue.

Innovation & Entrepreneurship

Don't follow the rules, rewrite them. Today’s fast-changing world needs original thinkers. Creators. Innovators. Risk takers. So get ready to think smart and reach the next level.

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Make space for every voice to be heard. Be the one who brings people together with a shared vision. Learn to break down barriers and be the leader the future needs.

Environmental Sustainability

It's not game over for our planet. It's game on. Together we can create a greener tomorrow. The world urgently needs graduates who can shape more sustainable and ethical ways of working. The future depends on it.

Entry requirements

A Levels

BBB in three A Level subjects, which must include Chemistry OR Biology plus one other science subject from Biology, Chemistry, Maths or Physics.

BBC in three A Level subjects, which must include Chemistry OR Biology plus one other science subject from Biology, Chemistry, Maths or Physics plus grade B in an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) or Core Maths.

BCC in three A Level subjects, which must include Chemistry OR Biology plus one other science subject from Biology, Chemistry, Maths or Physics for contextual offer students. *

The following subjects will not be considered as one of the core three A Levels; General Studies, Critical Thinking and Citizenship Studies. We welcome applications from students who have tried to improve their examination grades by taking resits and only your latest grades will be accepted. We treat these applications in exactly the same way as other applications.
- Contextual offers
  
  Aston Ready is our contextual offer scheme that could reduce your undergraduate offer by one or two grades. Assessed at the point of application, there are no additional forms to fill in.
Contextual offer criteria

Contextual offer applicants need to achieve a grade C as listed below.

BTEC Qualification Name	BTEC grades required	A-Level Requirements
Extended Diploma (QCF) / National Extended Diploma (RQF)	Distinction, Distinction, Distinction (DDD). For contextual offer students, Distinction, Distinction, Merit (DDM). OR Distinction, Distinction, Distinction plus A Levels. For contextual offer students, Distinction, Distinction, Merit (DDM) plus grade C.	This BTEC must be RQF National in Applied Science DDD (you do not require an additional A Level) OR This BTEC must be QCF in Applied Science DDD and you must also achieve an A Level at grade B in Biology OR Chemistry OR If you are studying a non-science subject in this BTEC which is QCF or RQF National, then you must achieve DDD and grades BB which must include Chemistry OR Biology plus one other science subject from Biology, Chemistry, Maths or Physics.
Diploma (QCF) / National Diploma (RQF)	Distinction, Distinction (DD)	With this BTEC you must also achieve grades BB in Chemistry OR Biology plus one other science subject from Biology, Chemistry, Maths or Physics. If this BTEC is being taken in Applied Science, you must achieve grade B in A Level Chemistry OR Biology.
Subsidiary Diploma (QCF) / National Extended Certificate (RQF)	Distinction (D)	With this BTEC you must achieve grade BB in two science subjects including Chemistry PLUS Biology, Physics or Maths.
90 Credit Diploma (QCF)	Distinction, Distinction (DD)	With this BTEC you must also achieve grades BB must include Chemistry OR Biology plus one other science subject from: Biology, Chemistry, Maths OR Physics.
National Foundation Diploma	Distinction (D)	With this BTEC you must also achieve grades BB must include Chemistry OR Biology plus one other science subject from: Biology, Chemistry, Maths OR Physics.

*Please note that on the UCAS application form QCF BTEC Extended Diploma appears under the name BTEC Extended Diploma (QCF) and the RQF BTEC Extended Diploma appears under the name Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (1080) (2016 to Present). If you are unsure of which qualification you are taking, please contact your school or college provider to confirm.

International Baccalaureate Diploma

Standard offer: 31 points overall and must include grades 5, 5, 5 in Higher Level subjects which must include Chemistry OR Biology plus one other science subject from: Biology, Chemistry, Maths OR Physics. You must also have Standard Level grade 5 in both Mathematics and English Language.

Contextual offer: 28 points overall and must include grades 5, 4, 4 in Higher Level subjects which must include Chemistry OR Biology plus one other science subject from: Biology, Chemistry, Maths OR Physics. You must also have Standard Level grade 5 in both Mathematics and English Language for contextual offer students.*

Successful completion of the QAA-recognised Access to HE Diploma with 45 credits at Level 3. You must obtain a minimum of 15 Distinctions and 30 Merits. Please note that we do not accept the English and Maths components within the Access qualification, so you must meet the GCSE entry requirements.

This qualification is not accepted for this course.

Five GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, which must include Mathematics and English Language or English Literature. We do not accept Key Skills or Functional Skills in place of these.

International students

Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students on many of our undergraduate programmes. Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year. Based in the centre of Birmingham, Aston is not only a great place to study, it’s also a great place to live.

Qualifications in your country

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification.

English language requirements

Aston University provides a range of opportunities for international students to join our community and study on our campus. A key part of our strategy is our relationships with teaching partners, providing multiple pathways to Aston.

Aston’s professional work placements can improve your chance of securing a graduate job. Placements give you experience, confidence and opportunities and, as an Aston student, you’ll be better prepared for your future career. One of the great things about Aston is our focus on employability. Our close links with businesses, industries and professions make this possible.

Find out more about applying

Post-study work visa

Aston University welcomed the creation of a new Graduate Immigration Route which enables international students to remain in the UK for two years after you complete your studies to find work. This new post-study work visa applies to international students completing full-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Graduate Immigration Route

Pathway Programmes

If you don’t meet our entry requirements, we have a range of pathway programmes offered by our partner, ONCAMPUS Aston, which you can complete to progress onto one of our degrees.

Other

Degree

Year 1:

We consider applicants for entry into Year 1 who are undertaking a degree in a related field elsewhere. You must meet the GCSEs and A Level (or equivalent) requirements as listed. In addition to this, you must have gained (or be expected to gain) 60% overall and 120 credits with no fails in any modules at another recognised university. To be considered, you will need to submit a UCAS application as we do not accept direct applications and this must include an academic reference.

Year 2/3/Final year:

We do not accept direct entry into Year 2, Year 3 or Final Year of this programme.

View our Transfers Policy

See further information regarding the transfer policy and student transfer arrangements

Age of qualifications

Applicants must normally have achieved their eligible academic qualifications for entry onto this course within the last three years. Applicants presenting qualifications older than three years will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Academic Admissions Lead.

External Foundation Programmes

We consider external foundation programmes for entry into Year 1 of our degree programme on a case-by-case basis. We will always require applicants to have met the following criteria prior to application:

5 GCSEs at grade C/4 or above including Maths and English.
CCC in three A Level subjects, which must include Biology.

Any conditional offers made will be based on meeting a specific grade in your foundation programme. To be considered, you will need to submit a UCAS application as we do not accept direct applications.

Fees and scholarships

The fees shown below are for September 2025 entry, so may change for September 2026 entry. We will update to September 2026 fees as soon as possible.

Course fees

UK students
(2025/26)

Annual tuition fees:	£9,535*
During placement year:	£1,250

International students
(2025/26)

Annual tuition fees:	£21,500
During placement year:	£2,500

UK students (Home Undergraduate):

The annual tuition fee for the programme commencing in academic year 2025/26 will be £9,535 (subject to the passing of legislation implementing the Government’s policy to increase the maximum tuition fee from £9,250, payable by Home Undergraduate students on full-time courses). The fee for the placement year is £1,250.

All students:

The duration of your programme is set out at the top of this course page and you will be responsible for the payment of an annual tuition fee in each of these years. The University reserves the right to increase tuition fees annually in accordance with its Terms and Conditions and subject at all times to the maximum tuition fee caps set by Government from time to time. This means that your total tuition fee may be higher than stated above, but your total tuition fee will never increase by more than 6% year on year. An increase in fees will allow the University to cover the increased costs of delivering the course and ensure it is able to maintain high standards of education and facilities.

More information on fees

For Home students: Tuition fees for UK/Home students may change in line with government policy.

For International students: The International students fee is a fixed annual fee for the duration of the Programme, except whilst on placement when a placement year fee applies.

Scholarships

At Aston University we are committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.

Explore our scholarships

Assessment

Everyone is different and we use a variety of assessment methods to evaluate your understanding and skills, reflecting the diverse demands of a scientific career. These include:

Examinations (essays, short answers, MCQs)
Laboratory reports and practical assessments
Data analysis and interpretation tasks (including computational work)
Research project reports and dissertations
Oral presentations and posters
Essays and critical reviews
Group projects
Computer-based assessments

Career prospects

Our BSc (Hons) Biochemistry programme will prepare you for a range of careers across the public, private and third sectors. Our graduates are among the highest paid in the country, according to the 2023 Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO). This data shows that five years after graduation, employed Aston University graduates have the 15th highest median salary among all UK Higher Education Institutions, with a median salary of £36,100.

The transferable skills that our biochemistry degree provides mean that our graduates are successful in finding employment in:

Research and development
Scientific communication
Forensic science
Biotechnology
Patent law
Sales and management

Be part of our community

Once you have joined us at Aston University, you’ll always be part of our community, even beyond graduation.

Alumni services

Frequently Asked Questions

Why study BSc (Hons) Biochemistry at Aston?

You’ll experience a carefully designed mix of hands-on study and theoretical learning, in world-class facilities, working with passionate expert staff.

With a focus on real-wold application as well as the theory, you’ll have all the skills and knowledge you need to be “lab-ready” for any placement in industry; and to be ready for an exciting and enriching career solving some of the world’s most pressing scientific problems.

What's the difference between the 3-year and 4-year options?

The 4-year programme includes a highly valuable, integrated placement year in industry or research setting between years 2 and 4.

The 3-year programme covers the same academic content but without the placement year, leading directly to graduation after the final academic year.

Why is the placement year so strongly recommended?

It provides unparalleled real-world experience, significantly boosts your employability, helps clarify career goals, builds professional networks, and often leads to graduate job offers. It's a transformative part of the Aston experience.

What learning facilities can I expect?

Extensive and well-equipped laboratories with a variety of equipment designed to support your learning in an industry-relevant environment.
Refurbished lecture theatres and seminar rooms with modern audio-visual equipment.
Computer laboratories and a virtual learning environment used for general study, revision and assessment. This platform allows you to access a comprehensive range of study materials, scientific journals, e-journals, databases and much more.
Aston Library, fully refurbished and equipped for the digital age. Open 24 hours a day at key points throughout the year with a variety of study spaces, academic support advisors on hand and course texts available electronically or in book form.

What accreditations does the course have?

Our Biochemistry BSc course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB). This means that when you graduate, you’ll have met a defined set of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.

What computational skills will I learn?

You'll gain experience with bioinformatics databases, sequence analysis tools, molecular visualisation software, potentially basic programming/scripting for data analysis, and software for modelling biological processes.

How is Leadership developed?

Through group projects requiring collaboration and coordination, research project management, presentation opportunities, and modules focusing on professional development and ethical considerations.

Will I develop any transferable skills?

It’s really important to us that you develop a wide range of skills that will maximise your career prospects.

As a biochemistry student, you can expect to develop skills in:

fundamental laboratory techniques
record keeping
project development
time management
critical analysis
communication (written/oral)
presentation
team working
report development
IT
problem solving

Is Birmingham a good place to study?

Our campus is based in the centre of Birmingham, the youngest major city in Europe and a great place to live, work and study.

Great music and entertainment with a vibrant nightlife. Bars, clubs, pubs, live music, festivals, concerts. Whatever your tastes, there's something here for everyone.
Fantastic food. Birmingham's diverse community means you can try anything from the famous Balti triangle, the Chinese Quarter, high street chains, halal and vegan food, and Michelin-star dining.
World-class shopping. The Bullring and Grand Central is a shopper's paradise. From the world's biggest Primark to luxury brands at the Mailbox.
Arts and culture. Museums, galleries, theatres, concerts and Birmingham's art collection is as wide as it is impressive - not to be missed.
Green, open spaces. One of the greenest cities in Europe, Birmingham has hundreds of publicly accessible parks and green spaces across the city.
Sporting action. Birmingham has some of the most exciting venues for watching or participating in sport in the UK.

Discover Birmingham