
Biochemistry BSc (Hons)
Course Overview - Biochemistry BSc (Hons)
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. Youll 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 understandi...
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. Youll 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.<br/><br/>This degree equips you with a deep understanding of biochemical principles and the practical, computational, and analytical skills demanded by employers. Youll 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.<br/><br/>Choose the pathway that suits your ambitions:<br/><br/>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.<br/> 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.<br/><br/>Whichever route you choose, youll 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, youll be empowered to contribute meaningfully to fields like medicine, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and environmental science.<br/><br/><strong>Why study Biochemistry at Aston University?</strong><br/>• Flexible pathways: Tailor your degree with a 3-year direct route or the highly regarded 4-year programme featuring a placement year. Our dedicated and award-winning placements teams will be able to guide you through the process.<br/>• Cutting-edge curriculum: Explore core biochemistry alongside modern disciplines like computational biology, bioinformatics, and synthetic biology.<br/>• Professionally accredited: Recognised by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB), ensuring high standards and enhancing your employability.<br/>• Gold standard teaching: Aston University proudly holds Triple Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF, 2023) – the highest possible rating and only one of a few institutions in the county to be awarded this prize.<br/>• Excellent student experience: Join a supportive community. 94% of our students felt positive about teaching on their course (NSS 2024).<br/><br/><strong>Facilities</strong><br/>• 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.<br/>• 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.<br/>• Dedicated computer labs: Utilise powerful workstations equipped with specialised software for molecular modelling, bioinformatics analysis, data visualisation, and statistical processing.<br/>• Aston library: Access vast digital and print resources, scientific databases, e-journals, and quiet study spaces 24/7 during key periods.<br/>• Collaborative study areas: Spaces designed for group work and discussion. • Virtual Learning Environment: Comprehensive online access to course materials, lecture recordings, and resources.
Course Information
2 options available
Some courses vary and have tailored teaching options, select a course option below.
Course Details
Information
Study Mode
Sandwich
Duration
4 Years
Start Date
14/09/2026
Campus
Main Site
Application Details
14 January
Application deadline
Provider Details
Codes/info
Course Code
C700
Institution Code
A80
Points of Entry
Year 1
Entry Requirements
UCAS Tariff
Not Accepted
Scottish Higher
A,B,B,B,B
must include Chemistry OR Biology plus one other science subject from: Biology, Chemistry, Maths OR Physics.
Access to HE Diploma
D:15,M:30,P:0
Successful completion of the QAA-recognised Access 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. Subjects accepted: Applied Science, Biology combined with Chemistry, Biomedical Science, Biosciences, Combined Sciences, Health Sciences, Health Sciences Professions, Life Sciences and Sciences. Please note that we do not accept Health and Social Care as it does not contain the amount of core science material required for subsequent undergraduate studies on this degree.
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme
31
28
STANDARD: 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. OR CONTEXTUAL: 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.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)
DDD
DDM
See Aston University course webpage for further details
Leaving Certificate - Higher Level (Ireland) (first awarded in 2017)
H3,H3,H3,H3,H4
must include Chemistry OR Biology plus one other science subject from: Biology, Chemistry, Maths OR Physics at grade H3 or above.
GCSE/National 4/National 5
Five GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, which must include Mathematics and English Language. Please note that we do not accept Key Skills or Functional Skills in place of these.
Pearson BTEC Diploma (QCF)
DD
See Aston University course webpage for further details
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)
DD
See Aston University course webpage for further details
Scottish Advanced Higher
B,B,C
must include Chemistry OR Biology plus one other science subject from: Biology, Chemistry, Maths OR Physics.
Pearson BTEC Subsidiary Diploma (QCF)
D
See Aston University course webpage for further details
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate (first teaching from September 2016)
D
See Aston University course webpage for further details
Pearson BTEC 90-Credit Diploma (QCF)
DD
See Aston University course webpage for further details
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)
D
See Aston University course webpage for further details
A level
B,B,B
B,C,C
BBB must include Chemistry OR Biology plus one other science subject from: Biology, Chemistry, Maths OR Physics. BBC must include Chemistry OR Biology plus one other science subject from: Biology, Chemistry, Maths OR Physics with a B in an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) or Core Maths. BCC must include Chemistry OR Biology plus one other science subject from: Biology, Chemistry, Maths OR Physics. Contextual offers are made as part of Aston University's Aston Ready Scheme. Please see the criteria and further details at https://www.aston.ac.uk/undergraduate/contextual-offer-aston-ready. ________________ RESITS: We welcome applications from students who have retaken exams to improve their grades. Only the highest grades achieved will be considered and resit applications are treated the same as all others. PREDICTIONS AND ACHIEVED GRADES: At Aston University, we are committed to an inclusive admissions process, ensuring every applicant has the best possible opportunity. While our listed grades are the official entry requirements, we understand that predicted grades are estimates. We typically offer candidates predicted to achieve CCC or higher, provided they meet the subject-specific requirements. This approach gives applicants
T Level
Not Accepted
Welsh Baccalaureate - Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (last awarded Summer 2024)
This will be accepted in place of one A Level, but not in place of the subject specifics stated.
WJEC Level 3 Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales
This will be accepted in place of one A Level, but not in place of the subject specifics stated.
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Fees and funding
Region | Costs | Academic Year | Year |
---|---|---|---|
England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales | £9,535 | 2025/26 | Year 1 |
EU, International | £22,575 | 2025/26 | Year 1 |