University of Leicester

Biological Sciences (Biochemistry) MBiolSci

University of LeicesterLeicester, Campus-based

Course overview

In your first year, you will focus on understanding of the fundamental biological processes that occur in cells, including DNA and protein synthesis, as well as the metabolic reactions that sustain cells and organisms. In subsequent years you will develop a greater understanding of how molecular processes are exquisitely controlled to ensure that the right process occurs in the right location – and at the right time. This control is essential to the correct functioning of cells, and the body as a whole, and errors can lead to disastrous consequences.

One example of this is in cancer formation, where genetic mutations lead to loss of control of proteins that govern when cells replicate. You will learn how our knowledge of these molecular processes is leading to breakthroughs in disease treatment, through targeting and inactivating key molecules in the defective pathways. Moreover, much of our understanding of molecules, their interactions with each other, and effective therapeutic drug design, now comes from studying molecular structures at the atomic level.

Opportunities to learn how we use and generate molecular structures are embedded throughout the course and this is the focus of a third year module, which benefits from the expert knowledge of academic staff associated with the Leicester Institute of Structural and Chemical Biology. On this course you will develop a range of skills that are valued by employers, including practical, analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as gaining experience in handling complex information. You will also develop transferable skills in time-management, meeting deadlines, giving oral presentations and working in teams to achieve a goal.

By studying biochemistry alongside options in other biological sciences specialisms, you will be able to apply your knowledge across the boundaries of traditional disciplines and become a valuable and powerful asset in scientific environments and in many other walks of life. The first three

Key highlights

  • First year covers DNA and protein synthesis and cell metabolism
  • Explores molecular control of cells, including cancer formation
  • Learn how targeting defective pathways drives disease treatment breakthroughs
  • Third-year module on molecular structures at the atomic level
  • Taught with experts from the Leicester Institute of Structural and Chemical Biology
  • Combine biochemistry with options in other biological sciences specialisms

Entry requirements

  • A-level: ABB — to include including at least two relevant science subjects from Biology, Chemistry, Maths, P
  • A-level: BBB — + Level 3 Core Maths grade B (if Maths not taken as a full A or AS level
  • GCSE: 4/C — to include English Language, Mathematics, Science
  • Access to HE Diploma: Pass — Pass Science diploma with 45 credits at level three, 30 of which must be at distinction
  • International Baccalaureate: 30 — International Baccalaureate : Pass Diploma with 30 points to include grade 6 and 5 in at least two relevant HL science subjects from Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Physics or Psychology.
  • BTEC: D*DD — BTEC Nationals : Pass Applied Science Diploma with D*DD plus five GCSEs at B/5 or above including two relevant sciences.
  • T-level: Distinction — to include in Science (with an Occup

Scholarships

  • Chancellor’s International Scholarship

    This scholarship, worth £3,000 per year, reflects the University’s commitment to attracting talented students from around the world.

    Up to £3,000

  • Choral Scholarships at Leicester Cathedral

    Leicester Cathedral offers three Choral Scholarships of £1,000 each year to University of Leicester students (undergraduates or postgraduates).

    Up to £1,000

  • Family Loyalty Discount

    10% discount on the tuition fee for each year of your course.

    Up to 10% of fees

  • International Citizens of Change Scholarship

    A £10,000 tuition fee discount will be awarded to 10 undergraduate international fee-paying students starting an undergraduate programme in September 2026 for each year of their course for up to three years.

    Up to £10,000

  • International Undergraduate Merit Scholarship

    This merit-based scholarship, worth £5,000 per year, is offered to international-fee-paying students applying for an undergraduate degree at the University of Leicester who achieve or exceed the academic grades outlined.

  • International Undergraduate Tuition Fee Waiver

  • Music Scholarship

    Music Scholarships of £500 are available for the academic year to cover the cost of music lessons for student musicians who are studying an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in any subject.

    Up to £500

  • Sanctuary Scholarships

    Each Sanctuary Scholarship consists of a tuition fee waiver, and a support package to be confirmed following assessment with our Welfare Service.

  • Sports Scholarships - The Talented Athlete Award

    Financial contribution on agreed items up to £500 (e.g., travel expenses, equipment, specialist coaching, nutritional advice).

Careers this course leads to

  • Biochemist
  • Research scientist
  • Laboratory scientist
  • Pharmaceutical scientist
  • Clinical research associate
  • Scientific officer

Cost of study

UK/Home: £9,790; £10,050 | International: £25,100

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to University of Leicester, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

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