Keele University

What you'll study

This programme covers the chemistry of biological molecules and how they function within cells, tissues and organisms. Teaching blends core lectures with practical laboratory sessions, data analysis, and an extended research project in the final year. Modules develop understanding from molecular structure to systems-level processes and typically include topics such as:

• Fundamental biochemistry: biomolecules, enzyme kinetics and metabolic pathways.
• Molecular biology and genetics: DNA/RNA structure and function, gene expression and regulation.
• Cell biology and physiology: membrane biology, cell signalling and cellular homeostasis.
• Structural biology and protein chemistry: protein folding, purification and characterisation techniques.
• Practical laboratory skills: chromatography, electrophoresis, spectrophotometry, microscopy and aseptic technique.
• Analytical and computational methods: bioinformatics, statistics for biosciences and data visualisation.
• Specialist options: molecular pharmacology, proteomics, metabolic disease, neurochemistry or environmental biochemistry depending on staff expertise and student choice.
• Research project: an independent laboratory or literature-based project supervised by academic staff, allowing hands-on experience of experimental design, data collection and scientific communication.

Students can often choose a year-long placement or study abroad option where available, and interdisciplinary modules from chemistry, psychology or biomedical sciences are commonly offered to broaden transferable skills.

Entry requirements

Entry is based on a combination of qualifications and suitability for degree-level study. Typical applicants hold A-levels including Chemistry plus another science or mathematics subject, a science-focused BTEC, or an International Baccalaureate diploma with relevant higher-level sciences. Alternative qualifications, advanced apprenticeships and relevant prior learning are considered, particularly for mature students.

• Essential subject knowledge: chemistry is normally required; biology or a related science is highly desirable.
• GCSE requirements: pass grades in English and mathematics (or equivalent) are usually expected.
• Admissions assessment: some applicants may be asked for a personal statement, references and, where relevant, to discuss practical experience such as laboratory work, voluntary roles or science-related employment.
• Support routes: foundation year entry routes or contextual offers may be available for applicants without the usual subject combinations or qualifications.

Admissions tutors look for evidence of scientific aptitude, practical awareness and the potential to work independently in laboratory and research settings.

Career prospects

Graduates in Biochemistry have a wide range of career pathways. The degree provides the subject knowledge and practical experience sought by employers across the life sciences sector and beyond.

• Scientific careers: roles in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, clinical laboratories, diagnostics, food and drink science, and environmental testing.
• Research and development: progression to postgraduate research (MSc, PhD) and laboratory-based research positions in academia or industry.
• Healthcare and allied professions: routes into biomedical science, clinical trials, public health and working with regulatory bodies (often requiring further professional qualifications or registration).
• Other options: science communication, patent and regulatory affairs, sales and technical support in life-science companies, teaching, and data-driven roles such as bioinformatics or scientific publishing.
• Transferable skills: problem-solving, experimental design, data analysis, written and oral communication, teamwork and project management are developed and valued across sectors.

Careers support at the university typically helps with placement sourcing, applications for postgraduate study, and employer engagement to help graduates make the transition to employment.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a campus-based student experience with close contact between students and research-active academics in the life sciences. The Biochemistry programme benefits from dedicated teaching laboratories, instrumentation for modern molecular biology and analytical chemistry, and opportunities to undertake an independent research project under academic supervision.

• Small-group teaching: seminars, practical classes and tutorial support emphasise practical skills and critical thinking.
• Research-led curriculum: modules are informed by staff research across molecular biosciences, enabling students to learn contemporary techniques and scientific questions.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities: easy access to modules and collaborations with chemistry, biomedical sciences and psychology to tailor study to individual interests.
• Employability and placements: support for securing industrial placements, internships and engagement with local and national employers in the life-science sector.
• Campus environment: a residential campus with laboratory facilities, specialist equipment and student support services that support academic development and wellbeing.

Overall, Keele's Biochemistry degree is designed to equip graduates with the scientific knowledge, practical laboratory experience and transferable skills needed for careers in the biological sciences and related fields.