University of York

What you'll study

The programme builds practical and theoretical understanding of biological chemistry across three years. In the early stages you cover core topics such as organic and physical chemistry, cell and molecular biology, enzyme chemistry, and laboratory skills including basic molecular techniques and data analysis. Teaching is delivered through lectures, practical laboratory sessions, small-group tutorials and problem classes.

In the middle years you deepen into topics such as metabolism and bioenergetics, protein structure and function, nucleic acid chemistry, molecular genetics, and quantitative methods including statistics and bioinformatics. You will encounter contemporary techniques such as PCR, electrophoresis, chromatography, spectroscopy and microscopy, and learn how to design experiments and analyse experimental data.

The final year emphasises independent research and advanced options. You undertake a substantial research project, working in a research group or laboratory to plan and execute experiments and report findings in written and oral form. Optional modules allow specialisation in areas such as structural biology, enzymology and kinetics, genomics and proteomics, drug discovery, synthetic biology, and ecological or cellular biochemistry.

Typical programme structure

• Year 1: Foundations in chemistry and molecular biology, introductory laboratory and quantitative skills.
• Year 2: Core biochemical pathways, molecular techniques, intermediate modules and preparation for project work.
• Year 3: Independent research project plus advanced and specialist optional modules.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have strong science credentials. Typical offers require high grades at A-level including Chemistry plus one other science or mathematics subject. Applicants taking other UK or international qualifications should hold equivalent passes in chemistry and relevant sciences. The department welcomes applicants with qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate, appropriate vocational qualifications (for example BTEC) or Access to HE diplomas, provided they include sufficient chemistry and laboratory experience.

All applicants should have a good grounding in mathematics and English at GCSE (or equivalent). Successful applicants also demonstrate an interest in practical laboratory work and an awareness of careers in the life sciences through personal statement and references. International applicants may need to meet English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates in Biochemistry from York move into a wide range of careers. Common destinations include research roles in academia and industry, positions in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, roles in clinical and diagnostic laboratories, and employment in food science or environmental testing. Many graduates progress to postgraduate study (MSc, MRes, PhD) to pursue research careers or specialised professional training.

Other career paths include science communication, patent and regulatory affairs (often following further legal or specialist training), teaching (with a PGCE), public health and roles in sales or technical support for scientific companies. The degree equips students with laboratory techniques, experimental design, data analysis and transferable skills valued by graduate employers.

Why study at University of York

The University of York offers biochemistry teaching informed by active research across molecular and cellular biology, structural biology and biotechnology. Students benefit from modern teaching laboratories, access to specialist instrumentation and research facilities, and staff who combine research with undergraduate teaching. Small-group teaching and supervised research projects help develop practical competence and scientific communication.

York’s location and links with regional science and technology organisations provide opportunities for internships, industry contacts and collaborative projects. Central student support services and a dedicated careers team help with placements, CVs and interview preparation. Student societies, outreach activity and campus research seminars add extra professional and social opportunities for aspiring biochemists.