Biochemistry BSc
2025-26 entryExplore diverse topics from biochemical studies on cell membranes and photosynthesis, to how our immune systems function, before putting your skills and knowledge into practice in the lab.
Key details
- A Levels AAB
Other entry requirements - UCAS code C700
- 3 years / Full-time
- September start
- Accredited
- Find out the course fee
- Optional placement year
- Study abroad
Explore this course:
Course description
Why study this course?
The Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 rated 98% of research and impact from the School of Biosciences as world-leading or internationally excellent.
Study the full range of biochemistry or specialise in areas such as biotechnology, molecular genetics, antibiotic resistance or sustainability.
Multi-million pound microscopy equipment, NMR imaging and facilities for genomics, proteomics and metabolomics research.
Investigate biological systems at the molecular level, and the role biochemistry can play in humanity’s future. Studying biochemistry at the University of Sheffield allows you to investigate the structure and function of biological systems at the molecular level.
From your first year you’ll study modules that span the molecular biosciences, with the option to explore additional topics that build on your molecular understanding from across the whole of bioscience. This flexibility allows you to learn how life works in the area that interests you.
At Sheffield, you’ll be encouraged to be creative, think independently, and express your ideas. You’ll be in the lab completing practicals across molecular genetics, DNA manipulation and protein structure analysis. You’ll get the chance to use cutting-edge equipment to run your own in-depth research projects in an area such as clinical diagnostics or brewing biotechnology.
As you progress through your degree, you’ll learn about the various ways that biochemistry can be applied to major challenges affecting humanity today, from how we sustainably feed a global population, to healthy ageing and how new drugs are designed. Your personal tutor will support you to tailor your degree to your interests and career goals.
This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology which shows employers that you've developed the practical skills and scientific knowledge that they're looking for.
Modules
UCAS code: C700
Years: 2023, 2024
In your first year, you'll spend six hours in the lab each week learning the practical skills and knowledge that every bioscientist needs, including how to establish bacterial cultures, assess bioenergetics and perform gene cloning. Analysis classes will equip you with the skills you'll use outside the lab, from interacting with your data to interpreting your findings. Your lectures will give you a broad understanding of the molecular biosciences, allowing you to explore what you're most interested in.
Core modules:
- Biochemistry 1
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This module provides a broad introduction to Biochemistry and examines the molecules that carry out and control all the chemical reactions in biological cells. The basic chemical concepts underlying the structures, functions and mechanisms of action of biomolecules.
20 credits - Molecular and Cell Biology
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This module considers the fundamental processes at the heart of all life on this planet. Students will learn about the basic molecular processes that enable cells to store and use genetic information to make proteins, as well as the mechanisms that allow cell growth, division, and ultimately cell death. Learning materials will be delivered through a combination of lectures, videos, practical classes and independent study.
20 credits - Microbiology 1
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This course is an introduction to the field of microbiology. Students will explore the diversity of microorganisms including Bacteria, Archaea, unicellular Eukaryotes and viruses. They will examine the diversity of the structure and the function of these microorganisms, emphasising the fundamental role that they play in our everyday lives by using examples in medicine and biotechnology.
20 credits - Genetics 1
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This course is an introduction to the principles of genetics. Students will explore the genetics of pro- and eukaryotes by studying the mechanisms of gene transmission, genetic exchange, mutations and gene mapping. Additional topics are the genetic basis of diseases, prenatal diagnosis, genetic counselling, gene therapy and genetic basis of antibiotic resistance in bacteria. Students will learn through lectures and videos and independent study.
10 credits - Skills in Molecular Bioscience
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The Skills in Molecular Biosciences module introduces students to the fundamentals of scientific practice: lab practical skills, experimental design, information technology, data visualisation and analysis, writing and presentation skills, skills reflection, professionalism and career development.
30 credits
Optional modules:
A student will take 20 credits from this group.
- Zoology
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This course is an introduction to the scientific study of animals. Students will explore the wonders of the animal kingdom through investigations of the physiology, reproduction, development, form and function of a wide diversity of both invertebrates and vertebrates. Students will learn through lectures and videos, practicals and independent study.
20 credits - Climate Change and Sustainability
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This course introduces the core scientific issues required to understand climate change and sustainability. Students will learn the causes of climate change, its impacts in natural and agricultural ecosystems, the influence of biogeochemical cycles in these ecosystems on climate, and strategies for sustainably managing ecosystems in future. Learning will be achieved via lectures and videos, practicals and independent study.
20 credits - Animal Behaviour
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This unit will provide an introduction to behaviour, focussing on the four fundamental questions: (i) the evolution of behaviour; (ii) the function of behaviour, (iii) the ontogeny of behaviour and (iv) the causation (or mechanisms) of behaviour. The course will introduce the major concepts and information on specific topics, including sexual behaviour, foraging behaviour and social behaviour in humans and non-humans. A central theme will be the extent to which animal behaviour can inform us about human behaviour and in particular the similarities and differences between the evolutionary approach to animal behaviour and evolutionary psychology.
10 credits - Introduction to Physiology with Pharmacology
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This module aims to provide students with an introduction to human physiology and pharmacology. It will introduce the fundamental physiological principles that govern the functioning of all cells and tissues within the body. The physiology of normal bodily functions will be explained using a systems-based approach which encourages students' to integrate their understanding of events at a molecular and cellular level with the structure and function of tissues and whole organs. It will examine how these normal bodily functions are affected by disease and drugs, with examples of how model organisms can inform this understanding. It will also provide an opportunity to perform and interpret physiological measurements, giving students hands-on experience of the experimental methods that they will be learning about in lectures.
20 credits - Fundamental Maths for Bioscientists
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Proficiency in basic calculations is essential for all scientists. In this module, designed for first-year students in the School of Biosciences who have not studied maths to A-level or equivalent, we will develop the mathematical skills needed to excel as a biologist. Using video tutorials, worksheets, and in-person workshop sessions, students will have the opportunity to build their skills and confidence and develop strategies to tackle complex calculations. Topics covered include arithmetic; concentrations, dilutions and molarity; logarithms; equations and functions; graphical representation of data and descriptive statistics; and probability.
10 credits - Principles of Evolution
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This course is an introduction to the core concepts of evolutionary biology and presents evolution as the central unifying theme of modern biology. Students will examine evolutionary patterns throughout earth history from the geological past to the present, and investigate evolutionary mechanisms of selection, adaptation and the origin of species. Concepts and examples will be introduced in lectures and videos, students will then develop their understanding through practical sessions, quizzes, and independent study.
10 credits - Plant Science
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This course is an introduction to the scientific study of plants and associated organisms. Students will explore plant origin, diversity, form, reproduction and development, photosynthesis, nutrient and water acquisition, as well as interactions with symbiotic and pathogenic microbes. Students will learn through lectures and videos, practicals and independent study.
20 credits - Evolution
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This course is an introduction to evolution as the central unifying theme of modern biology. Students will examine evolutionary patterns from the geological past to the present, and investigate evolutionary mechanisms of selection, adaptation and the origin of species. They will be introduced to the approaches used to study evolution including classical population and quantitative genetics, phylogenetic trees, and the fossil record. Students will learn through lectures, videos, practical sessions, quizzes, and independent study.
20 credits - Ecology and Conservation
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This module is an introduction to the principles of ecology and conservation. It covers ecological concepts about the factors controlling the abundance and distribution of species, coexistence and biodiversity at multiple geographic scales. It combines these concept lectures with key topical lectures about tropical and marine conservation centred on populations, biodiversity and habitats. The module includes lectures, a lab practical, an introduction to computer modelling for conservation biology and a field trip to Potteric Carr, a Yorkshire Wildlife Trust reserve where you'll put theory into practice by collecting data to evaluate some of the ideas you've learned in class.
20 credits - Introduction to Neuroscience
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This module aims to provide students with an introduction to neuroscience. It will introduce the fundamental principles of cellular and molecular neuroscience that govern neuronal excitability and neurotransmission. Building on these principles, it will introduce theories relating to how sensory information is processed, and how motor output and aspects of behaviour are controlled by the central nervous system. How the normal functioning of the nervous system is affected by disease and drugs will be examined. It will also provide an opportunity to perform neuroscience experiments and interpret the data. Although focussed on the understanding of human neuroscience, the module will demonstrate how the study of model organisms has contributed to this understanding.
20 credits - Introductory Developmental, Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology
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This module aims to provide students with a general introduction to Developmental, Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology. The approach will be concept-based, with an emphasis on the importance of techniques and the interpretation of experimental data. Topics covered include life cycles of the main animal model systems, how cell differences are generated during development, the basic principles of regenerative biology and wound healing as well as stem cell biology. Teaching will take place in a formal lecture environment, supplemented by online tutorials. Assessment will be by formal examination.
10 credits
In your second year, you'll begin learning more advanced scientific techniques, both in the lab and in lectures, with topics including experimental design, genome editing using CRISPR/Cas9 and protein purification. You'll continue to take analysis classes to develop your data handling skills further and you can choose to study modules that allow you to work in teams to come up with pioneering science enterprise ideas to launch a virtual business.
Core modules:
- Biostructures, Energetics and Synthesis
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This module aims to refresh students' understanding of the structures and functions of proteins and how free energy is made available (transduced) from reduced organic carbon compounds (catabolism) to generate ATP and NADPH for biosynthetic metabolism (anabolism). We begin by taking another look at key catabolic pathways in the cell including glycolysis, the Krebs cycle and mitochondrial electron transfer; before considering fatty acid β-oxidation and the pentose phosphate pathway. We then explore how amino acids and nucleotides, the building blocks of life, are synthesised. This leads on to a study of the nature of biological membranes and the main functions of membranes in cells, including the transduction of energy, nerve transmission and signalling. We then focus on the structure and function of membrane proteins, highlighting their key role in transport of proteins, small molecules and ions across biological membranes. Finally, we come full circle highlighting how solar energy entering the biosphere is harvested by chlorophyll pigments and transferred to specialised reaction centres to initiate photosynthetic electron transfer. We show how photosynthesis converts solar energy into ATP and NADPH, utilising the same redox chemistry and chemiosmotic principles that underlie respiration, and then uses these metabolites to power the fixation of CO2 into reduced organic carbon compounds.
20 credits - Biochemistry 2
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This module provides an advanced treatment of the biochemical topics introduced in earlier modules, to provide a deep understanding of the underlying chemical principles and molecular interactions governing life in cells. The module begins with a review of the chemical transformations and molecular interactions governing enzyme function. We then study a number of enzyme examples to illustrate common themes arising in enzyme specificity, types of reaction mechanisms and the relationship between protein structure and function. This leads on to study practical methods to experimentally measure enzyme activity. We then take a detailed look at the fundamentals of enzyme and ligand binding kinetics underlying unimolecular and bimolecular irreversible and reversible reactions. We then turn our focus to small molecule drug development, showing how the principles learned earlier in the module can be applied to develop protein or enzyme inhibitors for therapeutic use. The final part of the module develops an understanding of the ways in which kinetic parameters can be used to study reaction mechanisms and how inhibitors and mutants can modulate the activity of enzymes. We also study aspects of protein and enzyme function in practical classes. Overall, the module aims to give students the knowledge required to analyse and interpret biochemical data, plan appropriate experimental assays and to make pre
20 credits - Skills in Molecular Biology II
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This module develops students' appreciation of and aptitude in the scientific method, practical research skills, experimental design, information technology, data visualisation and analysis, critical evaluation, writing and presentation skills, and how science underpins innovative solutions to societal or commercial challenges. The module builds on skills developed in L1. In the autumn semester students will perform a small research project and have the opportunity to further develop their research skills in the spring semester. Students will develop skills in data visualisation and statistics with additional training and through reports on research projects. Students will develop their academic writing skills by preparing essays and lab reports and develop additional scientific communication, such as oral presentation and poster writing skills. This module develops employability skills via interview training, LinkedIn profile writing (or equivalent), and reflection on career choice and skill development.
30 credits
Optional modules:
A student will take a minimum of 20 and a maximum of 40 credits from this group.
- Genes, genomes and chromosomes
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This module directly builds on material delivered in MBB11003 and aims to provide a clear understanding of how genomes are organised within cells and how the expression of specific genes can be regulated. The topics covered in the module include experimental approaches to address the function of specific genes, mechanisms of regulated gene expression, DNA repair and recombination pathways, chromosome structure, genome sequencing technologies and the analysis of sequence data to study protein/DNA interactions, chromosome interactions and DNa methylation patterns .
20 credits - Microbiology 2
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This module introduces key concepts in bacterial physiology, genetics, virulence and therapeutics, building on the microbiology topics covered in earlier modules. Topics to be covered in the first half of the module will include aspects of bacterial growth and gene regulation, microbial biodiversity and cellular differentiation, and biotechnology. The module will then move on in the second half to consider both sides of the bacterium-host interaction and the consequences for human health. Using a selection of important human pathogens as examples, the bacterial strategies and virulence factors that contribute to disease will be introduced. The human immune response and the potential of vaccination to protect against disease will then be examined. The targets, mode of action and potential resistance mechanisms of a range of current and potential antimicrobial agents will then be considered. The module will provide opportunities throughout to develop the ability to analyse and interpret microbiological data.
20 credits - Genetics 2
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This module builds upon the introduction to genetics provided by Genetics 1. A range of eukaryotic genetic systems will be considered, including humans and a number of model organisms, ranging from yeasts to Drosophila melanogaster, Caenorhabditis elegans,
20 credits
Arabidopsis thaliana and Mus musculus. Topics to be covered include methods for isolating and genetically analysing mutants with specific phenotypes, genetic mapping, extranuclear inheritance, human diseases associated with chromosome abnormalities, ethical considerations associated with genome editing, developmental genetics and genome integrity. Interactive teaching sessions give students opportunities to apply concepts introduced in the lectures to numerical and ethical problems.
A student may take up to 30 credits from any available Level 2 Modules from the School of Biosciences. Students can also select 10 credits from Languages for All modules.
In your third year, you'll complete an extended research project alongside your chosen specialist modules. This will reflect an area of molecular bioscience that interests you. Depending on your interests and career goals, you can choose a project from: experimental science, clinical diagnostics, industrial biotechnology, molecular systems and computing, science communication or education and outreach.
Core modules:
- Biochemistry Data Handling
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The module aims to develop problem solving, interpretative and numerical skills by the study of deductive questions drawn from the broad area of biochemistry. Students will gain experience in the handling, analysis, interpretation and evaluation of published biochemical data of different types.
10 credits - Literature Review
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In this module students will consolidate the skills and knowledge they have gained in earlier levels of study. They will work individually, guided by a member of staff, to identify a key biological question and will address this through a comprehensive literature review. Students will synthesise information to explore the current state of knowledge, critically evaluate areas of uncertainty and debate, and suggest ways that the field may progress in the future. They will present their findings in the format of a review paper.
20 credits - Research Project
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In this module students will consolidate the skills and knowledge they have gained in earlier levels of study and apply these during a capstone research experience. A range of project types will be available, including laboratory-based, field-based, bioinformatics, computer modelling, education, and science communication. Students will work in groups, guided by a member of staff, to plan a research project, assess health, safety and ethical considerations, undertake the research, and analyse the data. Students will then work individually on interpreting, evaluating and communicating their findings via a formal report written in the style of a research publication.
30 credits
Optional modules:
A student will take a minimum of 40 and a maximum of 60 credits from this group.
- The world of RNA
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This module will analyse the vital roles that RNA plays in the life of a cell and how RNA is increasingly used as a tool to understand biology. The module will cover the following 'cutting edge' research topics: RNA interference, CRISPR Genome Editing, non-coding RNAs, together with the latest work on well known RNA based activities. These include transcription, RNA splicing, RNA stability, RNA export and translation and how all these processes are coupled in the cell to ensure efficient, quality-controlled gene expression. The module aims to present the latest innovations and discoveries in the RNA world and their application.
10 credits - Human genomics, proteomics and genome biology
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A top-down approach to biology, simultaneously investigating the structure and function of the entire genome and its products, both contrasts with and complements the traditional gene-by-gene approach, allowing us a birds-eye view. In this module, we cover genome-wide approaches to studying the genetic causes and diagnosis of complex and polygenetic human disease. We then discuss how methods such as RNA-seq, ChIP-seq and 4C can be used to investigate the genome-wide transcriptional profile, the chromatin landscape and the three-dimensional structure of the genome. Finally we describe the use of technologies such as mass spectrometry to investigate the complete proteome of a cell. The module builds on the material from the level 2 module Genes, Genomes and Chromosomes, to illustrate how cutting-edge genomic and proteomic methods can be used to address fundamental biological questions.
10 credits - Membrane Protein Structure and Function
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The aim of this module is to impart a thorough understanding of the structure and function of membrane proteins. A major theme is the structural basis of energy transduction in membranes. Membrane protein complexes mediate the transfer of excitation energy, electrons and protons upon which all life depends. They also control the entry and exit of proteins, ions, nutrients, drugs and antibiotics from cells and the transfer of signals across membranes. We will examine membrane proteins involved in energy harvesting such as respiration and photosynthesis. The principles underlying the efficiency of energy transduction and redox chemistry taking place in these complexes will be covered. We will look at how harvested energy is coupled to movement of molecules ions and signals across membranes. The role of structure in determining specificity and directionality in vital transport process and signalling will be emphasised.
10 credits - Molecular Immunology
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This module explores the mechanisms that higher organisms use to defend themselves against infectious disease. The course considers the relationship between innate immunity (the first line of defence) and adaptive immunity, which can evolve throughout a lifetime to specifically recognise and remember different pathogens. The functions of the various cells and molecules that constitute the immune system are discussed and the genetic mechanisms that contribute to immunological diversity and specificity are examined. Topics include the roles of cytokines, T cell subsets and the structure/function relationship of the different antibody classes. The module also includes an overview of current techniques that exploit or manipulate the immune response for the prevention and treatment of disease e.g. through the development of therapeutic antibodies and the design of new vaccines.
10 credits - Plant Biotechnology
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This module considers the application of biotechnology to plants, for both agricultural and research uses. It covers the production of transgenic plants and how this technology has resulted in genetically engineered crop plants that show novel traits or produce novel products. It also covers traditional methods of plant breeding for the development of novel crops without the use of genetic engineering. The release of genetically engineered crops has and is having a major impact on society, raising issues of ethical, economic and ecological importance. An appreciation of these issues will be developed.
10 credits - Protein Folding and Misfolding in Disease
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This module examines the mechanisms employed by proteins to adopt unique functional folds and explores the causes and consequences of mis-folding, with a particular reference to neurodegenerative disease, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and prion diseases. Students will have an opportunity to acquire knowledge and understanding of the following: methods used to study the assembly of protein complexes; folding of molecules: background thermodynamics; folding pathways; investigating intermediates; kinetic labelling; mutagenesis; modules of folding; the role of disulphide bonds; accessory proteins; isomerases; rotamases; chaperones. Protein mis-assembly: off-pathway species, aggregation, amyloids, accessory proteins, chaperones and disaggregases. Control of protein folding and mis-folding in vivo: recognition of unfolded protein, the UPR or unfolded protein response, proteostasis, and the role of the ubiquitin-proteasome system.
10 credits - Genome Stability and Genetic Change
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The module examines in detail the mechanisms that maintain genome integrity and generate genetic variation, both of which are essential to eukaryotic life. The lectures illustrate how the prevention and creation of changes in DNA make use of the same biochemical machinery. The main emphasis is on eukaryotes; reference is made to prokaryotes mainly as an aid to understanding the importance of conserved processes. Mechanisms studied in detail include single-strand break repair, protein-linked DNA break repair, homologous and non-homologous recombination, avoidance of replication errors, mismatch repair, excision repair and mutagenesis. Throughout the module experimental detail is included to illustrate how conclusions on gene function and interactions have been determined.
10 credits - Bacterial Pathogenicity
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Infectious diseases account for the majority of deaths worldwide. This will continue to be the case until we have a greater understanding of the mechanisms of microbial pathogenesis. This course builds on the principles introduced in level 2 microbiology and begins by showing how molecular genetic approaches are being used to unravel the complexities of microbial virulence. Following an introduction to the regulation of virulence genes, the pathogenic mechanisms of selected bacterial pathogens are explored in detail, demonstrating the involvement of multiple virulence determinants and their genetic regulation in the disease process. Mechanisms by which toxins deregulate or kill host cells will be explored. Virulence mechanisms that represent common themes in bacterial pathogenesis will be highlighted. The appearance of antibiotic resistant strains and strategies adopted to tackle this problem will also be considered.
10 credits - The Microbiology of Extreme Environments
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The overall aim of this module is to provide a detailed account of how diverse microorganisms survive in extreme environments on Earth. The first part of the course examines a range of extreme environments including salt lakes, hot springs, polar regions, mining areas, soda lakes, deserts, hydrothermal vents and sea ice and explains the metabolic processes of the diverse microbes that inhabit them to grow optimally under these extreme conditions. The growing industrial applications of extremophilic microorganisms will also be covered. The second part of the course looks at how proteins are adapted to remain stable and active under extreme conditions, since proteins readily denature under moderate heat, increased levels of salinity or changes in pH.
10 credits
A student may take up to 20 credits from any available Level 3 Modules from the School of Biosciences.
The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.
Learning and assessment
Learning
Assessment
Throughout the course you will be assessed through a variety of methods, including exams, tests, presentations, coursework and practical work.
Programme specification
This tells you the aims and learning outcomes of this course and how these will be achieved and assessed.
Entry requirements
With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible.
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
AAB
including Chemistry and a second science
- A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
- ABB including Chemistry and a second science + B in an EPQ in the field of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths or Psychology
- International Baccalaureate
- 34 with 6,5 (in any order) in Higher Level Chemistry and a second science
- BTEC Extended Diploma
- (RQF) DDD in Applied Science (Basic*, Biomedical Science*, or Analytical & Forensic Science** streams only)
- BTEC Diploma
- DD in Applied Science + A in A Level Chemistry
- T Level
- Not accepted
- Scottish Highers + 2 Advanced Highers
- AABBB + AB in Chemistry and a second science
- Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
- B + AA in Chemistry and a second science
- Access to HE Diploma
- Award of Access to HE Diploma in Science, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 36 at Distinction (to include Chemistry and Biology units) and 9 at Merit
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Second science subjects include Biology/Human Biology, Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Psychology or Geography
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GCSE Maths grade 4/C
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*Applied Science / Applied Science (Biomedical Science) must include the units: Practical Chemical Analysis, Applications of Organic Chemistry, and Applications of Inorganic Chemistry
**Applied Science (Analytical & Forensic Science) must include the units: Practical Chemical Analysis, Applications of Organic Chemistry, and Applications of Inorganic Chemistry; and at least one of the following units: Physiology of Human Body Systems, Human Regulation & Reproduction, Biological Molecules & Metabolic Pathways, Diseases & Infections, Microbiology & Microbiological Techniques, Biomedical Science, or Medical Physics Applications
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
ABB
including Chemistry and a second science
- A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
- ABB including Chemistry and a second science + B in an EPQ in the field of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths or Psychology
- International Baccalaureate
- 33 with 5 in Higher Level Chemistry and a second science
- BTEC Extended Diploma
- (RQF) DDD in Applied Science (Basic*, Biomedical Science*, or Analytical & Forensic Science** streams only)
- BTEC Diploma
- DD in Applied Science + B in A Level Chemistry
- T Level
- Not accepted
- Scottish Highers + 2 Advanced Highers
- ABBBB + AB in Chemistry and a second science
- Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
- B + AB in Chemistry and a second science
- Access to HE Diploma
- Award of Access to HE Diploma in Science, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 30 at Distinction (to include Chemistry and Biology units) and 15 at Merit
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Second science subjects include Biology/Human Biology, Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Psychology or Geography
-
GCSE Maths grade 4/C
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*Applied Science / Applied Science (Biomedical Science) must include the units: Practical Chemical Analysis, Applications of Organic Chemistry, and Applications of Inorganic Chemistry
**Applied Science (Analytical & Forensic Science) must include the units: Practical Chemical Analysis, Applications of Organic Chemistry, and Applications of Inorganic Chemistry; and at least one of the following units: Physiology of Human Body Systems, Human Regulation & Reproduction, Biological Molecules & Metabolic Pathways, Diseases & Infections, Microbiology & Microbiological Techniques, Biomedical Science, or Medical Physics Applications
You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification
Equivalent English language qualifications
Visa and immigration requirements
Other qualifications | UK and EU/international
If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the school/department.
Graduate careers
School of Biosciences
As a Biosciences graduate, you’ll have a huge range of career opportunities open to you. Whether you want to work in industry, join a Top 100 graduate employer, or continue your studies, employers seek out our graduates because of the skills they develop during their time at Sheffield.
Whatever you’re passionate about, we’ll make sure you get the scientific skills and knowledge to pursue it. Here are just a few of the exciting things our graduates are doing now:
- Saving local biodiversity and developing solutions to global food shortages at the RSPB and local Wildlife Trusts
- Working in industrial research at organisations including Pfizer, AstraZeneca and Reckitt
- Working in healthcare, in the NHS or for private healthcare providers or charities
- Studying for a PhD
A biosciences degree from the University of Sheffield can even take you into roles in marketing, teaching, human resources, IT, science communication and beyond. Each year our graduates apply their transferable skills and begin careers in these areas with Top 100 employers like GSK, Google and Aldi.
School of Biosciences
Research Excellence Framework 2021
Research Excellence Framework 2021
The School of Biosciences brings together more than 100 years of teaching and research expertise across the breadth of biology. It is home to over 120 lecturers who are actively involved in research at the cutting edge of their field, sharing their knowledge with more than 1,500 undergraduate and 300 postgraduate students.
Our expertise spans the breadth and depth of bioscience, including molecular and cell biology, genetics, development, human physiology and pharmacology through to evolution, ecology, biodiversity conservation and sustainability. This makes us one of the broadest and largest groupings of the discipline and allows us to train the next generation of biologists in the latest research techniques and discoveries.
The School of Biosciences is based at the heart of campus across the interlinked Firth Court, Alfred Denny, Florey, Perak and Addison buildings which house lecture theatres, teaching labs and research facilities. You’ll be over the road from 24/7 library facilities and the UK’s number one students’ union, a short walk from our student accommodation, sports facilities and the city centre, and just a bus ride away from the Peak District National Park.
Facilities
Our students have access to world-class laboratory and computing resources for biological research and are trained in specialist teaching laboratories. The school is home to state-of-the-art facilities, including the Medical Teaching Unit where our students work alongside trainee medics to gain an excellent foundation for understanding human physiology and developmental biology. We also have the Alfred Denny Museum of Zoology that we use for teaching animal anatomy, biodiversity and evolution.
To further support our research and teaching, we have a world-leading controlled environment facility which allows our staff and students to study the impacts of climate change; multi-million pound microscopy equipment that’s helping us to understand and prevent diseases such as MRSA; and facilities for genomics, proteomics and metabolomics research, Biological Mass Spectrometry, and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance imaging.
School of BiosciencesUniversity rankings
Number one in the Russell Group
National Student Survey 2024 (based on aggregate responses)
92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
Research Excellence Framework 2021
University of the Year and best for Student Life
Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024
Number one Students' Union in the UK
Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017
Number one for Students' Union
StudentCrowd 2024 University Awards
A top 20 university targeted by employers
The Graduate Market in 2023, High Fliers report
A top-100 university: 12th in the UK and 98th in the world
Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025
Student profiles
Fees and funding
Fees
Additional costs
The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.
Funding your study
Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.
Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.
Placements and study abroad
Placements
If you know you want to do a placement we also offer a dedicated BSc Biochemistry with an Industrial Placement Year that you can apply for via UCAS. You can test out a career path between your second and third year - whether that's in the lab or applying your scientific knowledge and transferable skills in industry - and earn a salary while you're doing it. Our students have completed placements at organisations including Pfizer, GSK and Unilever.
Another great way to gain extra experience is by applying to join the Sheffield Undergraduate Research Experience scheme. This gives you the chance to spend around six weeks working in one of our research groups over the summer. It's a unique opportunity to pursue research in an area that you’re excited about, and can help inform your future career aspirations.
Study abroad
Visit
University open days
We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.
Subject tasters
If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.
Offer holder days
If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.
Campus tours
Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.
Apply
The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.
Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.
Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.