Swansea University

What you'll study

This degree provides a strong grounding in molecular and cellular biochemistry, emphasising the chemical and molecular processes that underpin human health and disease. Early years cover core topics such as cell biology, molecular biology, metabolic pathways, enzymology and basic laboratory skills. As you progress you study advanced subjects including protein structure and function, clinical biochemistry, human physiology, genetics, and molecular diagnostics.

• Core laboratory practice and analytical techniques (spectroscopy, chromatography, electrophoresis, PCR and gel-based methods)
• Molecular biology and genomics, including bioinformatics approaches to sequence and expression data
• Metabolism and metabolic disease, covering pathways, regulation and clinical implications
• Clinical biochemistry and diagnostic methods used in healthcare laboratories
• Research methods, statistics and experimental design with emphasis on data interpretation
• Final-year research project or extended laboratory dissertation providing independent research experience
• Optional modules that may include proteomics, metabolomics, pharmacology, epidemiology, and neuroscience

The programme combines lectures, small-group tutorials, and substantial practical laboratory classes. Assessment is by a mix of written exams, practical reports, coursework and the independent research project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have A-levels (or equivalent) with good grades, typically including Chemistry plus at least one other science subject such as Biology, Mathematics or Physics. Swansea University accepts a range of qualifications including BTECs, Scottish Highers, Access to Higher Education diplomas and the International Baccalaureate; specific acceptable qualifications and tariff expectations should be checked on the university’s official admissions pages.

Typical additional requirements and considerations:

• Practical science experience is highly desirable, as the course is laboratory-intensive.
• For some applicants, a personal statement or interview may be used to assess motivation and suitability.
• International applicants usually need to meet English language requirements through recognised tests or qualifications.
• Offers may be conditional on successful completion of current studies and submission of required documentation.

Career prospects

Graduates from Medical Biochemistry commonly move into laboratory-based roles in hospitals, research institutes and industry, or continue to postgraduate study. Typical career paths include:

• Biomedical scientist roles in clinical laboratories (often requiring further training and registration through the relevant professional body)
• Research technician or research scientist positions in academic or industrial laboratories
• Pharmaceutical, biotechnology and diagnostics industry roles in quality control, assay development, or product support
• Further study at master’s or doctoral level leading to careers in research or academia
• Related careers including scientific publishing, regulatory affairs, patent law (with additional training), and science communication

The programme’s emphasis on practical laboratory skills, data analysis and independent research is designed to make graduates attractive to employers and to provide a strong foundation for clinical or research training routes.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea offers an integrated teaching and research environment with access to dedicated life sciences facilities and close links with the NHS and regional biomedical partners. Students benefit from hands-on laboratory training in modern teaching labs as well as opportunities to engage with research groups working on molecular medicine and translational science.

• Strong emphasis on practical skills and independent research through a supervised final-year project
• Opportunities to use bioinformatics and analytical platforms that reflect current laboratory practice
• Supportive student services, careers guidance and employer engagement to help with placements and graduate employment
• Campus resources and a research-active community that help bridge taught learning with real-world biomedical questions

Prospective students should consult Swansea University’s official programme pages for the most up-to-date information on modules, entry criteria and application procedures.