BSc BIOCHEMISTRY WITH A FOUNDATION YEAR
BSC BIOCHEMISTRY WITH A FOUNDATION YEAR
Our Biochemistry with a Foundation Year course is designed to help you gain the skills, knowledge and confidence you need to progress on to a degree in biochemistry.
During your foundation year, you’ll be assigned an adviser from the School of Biological Sciences who’ll guide you through your course to make sure that you’re ready to progress onto the specific degree course of your choice. 
It’s the ideal choice if you’re looking for a solid foundation in the core subjects relating to the study of life and the processes and interactions driving life on Earth. You’ll learn alongside students from across the other Science Schools, and at the end of the Foundation Year, you’ll be equipped with the fundamental skills you need to succeed in your future studies in your chosen area of biochemistry – and to unleash your learning potential. 
In the most recent Times Higher Education REF Analysis (2021), we were ranked 17th overall for research quality in Biological Science.
About
Wherever your interests lie within the world of biochemistry, the Foundation Year will pique your curiosity and quench your thirst for answers to important scientific questions. 
You’ll have contact with academics and researchers from across the Faculty of Science, many of whom are world-leaders in their chosen research areas. And beyond the timetabled lecture series, you’ll have the opportunity to attend talks by guest lecturers and speakers. 
You’ll cover current scientific topics that have significance and importance for society, such as ageing and cellular senescence, the emergence of infectious diseases, and the rapidly developing field of biotechnology. And you’ll be encouraged to develop your critical thinking skills by evaluating sources of scientific evidence and including such sources in your own written work. 
At UEA, we are uniquely partnered with the Norwich Research Park, providing you with access to a learning experience that is dynamic and fascinating – and fuelled by research that is happening right here, right now.
Depending on the course you choose to progress onto after your Foundation Year, the School of Biological Sciences has a number of Year Abroad and Placement Year study options.

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Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the courses listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the regular review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. Changes may for example consist of variations to the content and method of delivery of programmes, courses and other services, to discontinue programmes, courses and other services and to merge or combine programmes or courses. The University will endeavour to keep such changes to a minimum, and will inform students.After the Course
Once you successfully finish your Foundation Year, you’ll go straight onto one of the main degree programmes within the School of Biological Sciences. Career destinations
A degree at UEA will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. We've been ranked 1st for Job Prospects by StudentCrowd in 2022.
Example of careers that you could enter include: 
- Pharmaceutical industry 
- Biosciences and biotechnology 
- Science media and publishing 
- PhD and Master’s programmes 
- Healthcare 

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Foundation Year Course Modules
Compulsory Modules (60 Credits)
Code: BIO-3001B Credits: 20
The topics covered will give you a basic grounding in biological processes including the fundamental characteristics of living things; basic metabolic processes; an understanding of evolution and knowledge of the levels of biological organisation with some focus given to organ systems. This module also gives you the opportunity to develop key transferable skills such as lab skills, report writing, assignment preparation, researching and evaluating evidence, giving and responding to presentations.
Code: CHE-3003B Credits: 20
A course in chemistry intended to take you to the level required to begin a relevant degree in the Faculty of Science. The module will help you to develop an understanding of: reactions of functional groups in organic chemistry; basic thermodynamics; spectroscopic techniques; transition metal chemistry and practical laboratory skills.
Code: BIO-3001Y Credits: 20
Module description will be available soon.
Optional Modules (60 Credits)
Students will be enrolled on 60 compulsory credits from the following modules based on qualifications.
- Students with no prior FHEQ 3 qualification will be required to take BIO-3002A and CHE-3004A. S
- tudents with FHEQ 3 qualification should select modules based on their previous study and intended progression course and discuss their modules choices with the Course Director.
- Students with no prior FHEQ 2 mathematics qualification will be required to take MTHB3005A AND MTHB3306B otherwise they take MTHB3001A and MTHB3002B up to the full 60 credits in option range A.
- Students who believe they are on the wrong modules MUST consult with the Course Director.
Students will select 60 credits from the following modules:
Code: BIO-3002A Credits: 20
The topics covered on the module will give you a basic grounding in biological processes including the fundamental characteristics of living things; basic metabolic processes; an understanding of evolution and knowledge of the levels of biological organisation with some focus given to organ systems. This module also gives you the opportunity to develop key transferable skills which may include lab skills, report writing, assignment preparation, researching and evaluating evidence, giving and responding to presentations.
Code: CHE-3004A Credits: 20
A module designed for you, if you are on a Science Faculty degree with a Foundation Year. You will receive an introduction to the structure and electronic configuration of the atom. You will learn how to predict the nature of bonding given the position of elements in the periodic table and therefore. You will be introduced to the chemistry of key groups of elements. You will become familiar with key measures such as the mole and the determination of concentrations. The module includes laboratory work. No prior knowledge of chemistry is assumed.
Code: MTHB3001A Credits: 20
Taught by lectures and seminars to bring students from Maths GCSE towards A-level standard, this module covers several algebraic topics including functions, polynomials and quadratic equations. Trigonometry is approached both geometrically up to Sine and Cosine Rule and as a collection of waves and other functions. The main new topic is Differential Calculus including the Product and Chain Rules. We will also introduce Integral Calculus and apply it to areas. Students should have a strong understanding of GCSE Mathematics.
Code: MTHB3002B Credits: 20
Following MTHB3001A (Basic Mathematics I), this module brings students up to the standard needed to begin year one of a range of degree courses. The first half covers Integral Calculus including Integration by Parts and Substitution. Trigonometric identities, polynomial expressions, partial fractions and exponential functions are explored, all with the object of integrating a wider range of functions. The second half of the module is split into two: Complex Numbers and Vectors. We will meet and use the imaginary number i (the square root of negative one), represent it on a diagram, solve equations using it and link it to trigonometry and exponential functions. Strange but true: imaginary numbers are useful in the real world. The last section is practical rather than abstract too; we will be looking at three dimensional position and movement and solving geometric problems through vector techniques.
Code: MTHB3005A Credits: 20
This is a course in mathematics for students who have studied Maths at GCSE level gaining a grade B/C or equivalent and/or more than two years ago. The course includes some AS level material relevant to science. This module is reserved for students on the Chemistry, Biology, Pharmacy, Environmental Science or Computing Foundation Years.
Code: MTHB3006B Credits: 20
This module is ideal for you if you are studying a Science Faculty degree with a Foundation Year or Computing with a Foundation Year and have completed study of the module Introductory Mathematics for Scientists. You will build on the knowledge gained during the Mathematics for Scientists introduction module and advance your skills.
Code: PHY-3010B Credits: 20
This module follows on from Introductory Physics and continues to introduce you to the fundamental principles of physics and uses them to explain a variety of physical phenomena. You will study gravitational, electric and magnetic fields, radioactivity and energy levels. There is some coursework based around the discharge of capacitors. The module finishes with you studying some aspects of thermal physics, conservation of momentum and simple harmonic motion.
Code: PHY-3011A Credits: 20
In this module you will begin your physics journey with units, accuracy and measurement. You will then progress through the topics of waves, light and sound, forces and dynamics, energy, materials and finish by studying aspects of electricity. The module has a piece of coursework which is based around PV cell technology.
For further years' module information please check out our BSc Biochemistry.
Important Notice
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring and review of modules. Where this activity leads to significant change to a programme and modules, the University will endeavour to consult with affected students. The University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. Availability of optional modules may be restricted owing to timetabling, lack of demand, or limited places. Where this is the case, you will be asked to make alternative module choices and you will be supported during this process.
You’ll cover a combination of modules from the core subjects fundamental to studying the science of life. Jointly taught across the Schools of Chemistry and Biology, one third of your Foundation Year programme will be spent studying chemistry modules, which will take you from the structure of the atom to the foundations of organic chemistry and the basics for the chemistry of life. You’ll learn how to characterise and analyse chemical compounds and their mixtures, essential skills for your degree in biochemistry. 
The remaining two-thirds of your Foundation Year will be comprised of modules in biology, skills for scientists, mathematics or physics, the exact combination of which will be based on your previous studies and your intended future course. 
Once you’ve successfully completed your Foundation Year, you’ll progress on to one of the main degree programmes within the School of Biological Sciences. The progression criteria for these courses varies, but a typical example might be 60% overall, and 60% in the chemistry and spring semester modules, for progression to our MSci Biochemistry courses. Passing all of your Foundation Year modules (the pass mark is 40%) and doing well in Chemistry will make you eligible for our main BSc Biochemistry programmes. 
For the years of study beyond the Foundation Year, please see the full BSc Biochemistry course. 
Taught by leading academics from across our Faculty of Science, this course will develop your academic skills through a combination of lectures, seminars and laboratory-based practicals.
The lecture series will provide you with the fundamentals of scientific knowledge, which you’ll develop further through other taught and practical sessions, as well as our complementary online learning resources. 
Small group sessions will enable you to further develop your analytical and critical thinking skills, giving you opportunities to put the topics in context and bring the science to life. 
Independent study 
The Foundation Year programme provides a balance between independent thinking and taught study skills. It will help you become a self-motivated learner, an expert researcher and an analytical thinker. 
Along with formal taught sessions, you’ll undertake research, written assignments, practical work and group tasks. You’ll have access to our state-of-the-art library, and you’ll be given guidance and constructive feedback, to help you improve and develop your skills. 
Each module will be assessed through a combination of coursework and formal tests or examinations. Feedback will be offered after each assessment. 
Entry Requirements
A Levels
CCCT Levels
Obtain an overall Pass including a C in the core of the T Level and a Pass in the Occupational Specialism. Any subject is acceptableBTEC
MMMScottish highers
BBCCCScottish highers advanced
DDDIrish leaving certificate
6 subjects at H4Access course
Pass the Access to HE Diploma with 45 credits at Level 3European Baccalaureate
60%International Baccalaureate
28 pointsGCSE offer
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.Additional entry requirements
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.
A-Level General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.
We also welcome applications from students with non-traditional academic backgrounds. If you have been out of study for the last three years and you do not have the entry grades for our three year degree, we will consider your educational and employment history, along with your personal statement and reference to gain a holistic view of your suitability for the course. You will still need to meet our GCSE English Language and Mathematics requirements.
Important note
Once enrolled onto your course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include your eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
Students for whom english is a foreign language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
- IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components) for year 0 entry
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Interviews
Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Track. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.Gap year
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.Intakes
This course is open to UK applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.
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Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course related costs
View our information about Additional Course Fees.
There are compulsory textbooks for some of the modules on this course, and there will be costs associated with these.

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How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:

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