BSc Biochemistry

The BSc (Hons) Biochemistry at the University of Sunderland explores the molecular foundations of life, focusing on how diseases develop and how drugs interact with biological systems. The course provides a strong foundation in essential scientific disciplines, such as molecular biology, cellular biology, and organic chemistry. Students also gain substantial hands-on experience through regular laboratory work using industry-standard equipment incorporated into nearly every module.

Teaching is delivered through a combination of lectures, workshops, and problem-based learning. Assessments replicate real-world scientific practices, including the preparation of laboratory reports and scientific articles. The course also offers an optional four-year sandwich route, which includes a year-long industrial placement, giving students valuable professional and research experience.

The University of Sunderland is a forward-thinking institution known for its commitment to student support and academic excellence. It is home to the John Dawson Drug Discovery and Development Research Institute, ensuring students learn within a research-active environment that reflects current developments in biochemistry and related sciences.

Sunderland offers a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across disciplines such as Medicine, Law, Engineering, Business, and the Arts. The university is recognised for its excellent teaching quality—93% of students in relevant subjects reported satisfaction with the academic support they receive.

Applicants must submit a personal statement explaining their motivation for studying biochemistry and include any relevant study or work experience. An academic and/or employer reference is required, and students may also upload a CV to highlight additional experience.

Grade Requirements:

• Typical offer: 96–112 UCAS Tariff Points.
• At least three GCSE passes at grade C (or 4) or above, including Mathematics and English Language, or equivalent Level 2 Key Skills qualifications in Communication and Application of Number.

English Proficiency:

• Applicants from non-English speaking backgrounds must achieve an IELTS score of 6.0 overall (with no component below 5.5), or equivalent SELT test scores.

The annual tuition fee for international students studying the BSc Biochemistry course full-time is £16,500.

Undergraduate students, including those enrolled in the Biochemistry course, can access several financial awards. International students are automatically eligible for the Global Leaders Scholarship, offering a £5,000 tuition fee reduction per year.

Home students may qualify for income-based bursaries or the Impact Scholarship, a £1,000 award based on the quality of their personal statement. Details and eligibility criteria are available on the university’s scholarship webpage.

Graduates of the BSc Biochemistry course from the University of Sunderland are prepared for a wide range of scientific and research roles, including:

• Pharmaceutical Industry (e.g., Quality Control or Research)
• Biotechnology Sector
• Research and Development
• Forensic Science
• Food Industry

Applications for the BSc Biochemistry course are made through the standard undergraduate application process (UCAS). For tailored support and guidance with your application, we strongly recommend contacting one of our trained counsellors at AHZ.