BSc Biochemistry with a Foundation Year

Key details

BSC BIOCHEMISTRY WITH A FOUNDATION YEAR

Start Year

2021

Attendance

Full Time

Award

Degree of Bachelor of Science

UCAS course code

8C70

Entry Requirements

CCC

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 will 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.

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.

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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.

Assessment for Year 1

Each module will be assessed through a combination of coursework and formal tests or examinations. Feedback will be offered after each assessment.

Structure

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 will 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, mathematics and 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 course pages specific to those degree programmes.

Teaching and Learning

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 will 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.

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Assessment for Year 2

Reflecting the range of learning outcomes, we use a number of assessment methods: formal examinations, project reports, course tests, practical and fieldwork reports, poster and oral presentations, essays and worksheets. The balance of coursework and examinations varies dependent upon module choices. For example, at Level 5, the majority of modules are assessed through 40% coursework, 60% examination, although a small number of modules are 100% coursework.

Structure

The second year of the degree programme is designed to give you a thorough introduction to contemporary biological sciences and chemistry. You will find the modules both interesting and challenging, with training in relevant aspects of mathematics and physics especially valuable if you do not have A levels in these subjects.

Teaching and Learning

Our school has world-class academics and excellent facilities, including our undergraduate practical laboratories. The majority of learning will take place in lectures, seminars, practical laboratory classes and fieldwork, providing you with invaluable contact time with lecturers while learning through first-hand experience. Intellectual skills are developed by direct contact with lecturers who are frequently internationally recognised researchers. Throughout the programme, each module involves applied work in collecting, analysing or reviewing data and observations on biological processes, with particular emphasis on the critical assessment of existing knowledge. Many modules bridge traditional disciplines. Skills in asking and solving questions are promoted through seminars and group discussions. Mathematical and statistical skills are a major focus of both semesters in the first year. Research design and analysis are brought together in the final year undergraduate dissertation project, where independent thought and application are further developed.

Independent Study

The course provides opportunities for independent study within our state-of-the-art university library. Guidance throughout is provided through regular contact with your Academic Adviser.

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Assessment for Year 3

Structure

The third year will take you deeper into the world of biochemistry by equipping you with the core skills needed by a biochemist in areas such as medicinal chemistry and molecular biology, along with a choice of specialist modules across biochemistry.

Teaching and Learning

Independent Study

The course provides opportunities for independent study within our state-of-the-art university library. Guidance throughout is provided through regular contact with your Academic Adviser.

Admissions Live Chat

Virtual Open Day

Assessment for Year 4

Structure

In your fourth year of study you receive training in protein engineering and molecular enzymology and have an even greater range of optional modules, ranging from advanced organic chemistry to cancer biology. You will also further develop your laboratory and technical skills with an advanced laboratory module which will prepare you for your fourth year independent research project.

Teaching and Learning

Independent Study

The course provides opportunities for independent study within our state-of-the-art university library. Guidance throughout is provided through regular contact with your Academic Adviser.

Admissions Live Chat

Virtual Open Day

Modules in the 'Core Modules' range have to be taken and passed and are not eligible for compensation.

Assessment for Year 1

Each module will be assessed through a combination of coursework and formal tests or examinations. Feedback will be offered after each assessment.

Compulsory Modules

INTRODUCTORY CHEMISTRY

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.

FURTHER CHEMISTRY

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.

INTRODUCTORY BIOLOGY

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.

FURTHER BIOLOGY

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.

Optional A Modules

(20 credits)

BASIC MATHEMATICS I

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.

INTRODUCTORY MATHEMATICS FOR SCIENTISTS

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.

INTRODUCTORY PHYSICS

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.

Optional B Modules

(20 credits)

BASIC MATHEMATICS II

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.

FURTHER MATHEMATICS FOR SCIENTISTS

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.

FURTHER PHYSICS

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.

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Important Information

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that 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. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.

Assessment for Year 2

Compulsory Modules

CHEMISTRY OF CARBON-BASED COMPOUNDS

Code CHE-4101Y

Credits 20

After a shared introduction to atomic structure and periodicity, you will be introduced to the concepts of bonding and hybridisation, conjugation and aromaticity, the mechanistic description of organic reactions, the organic functional groups, the shapes of molecules and stereochemical issues including the concepts of enantiomers, diastereoisomers and racemates.

BONDING, STRUCTURE & PERIODICITY

Code CHE-4301Y

Credits 20

After a shared introduction to chemical bonding, atomic and molecular structure and chemical principles, this module will provide you with an introduction to the structures, properties and reactivities of molecules and ionic solids. The first few lectures of this module are integrated with the module ‘Chemistry of Carbon Based Compounds’ and is supported and illustrated by the bonding, structure and periodicity experiments of the first year practical modules, Chemistry Laboratory A or Research Skills in Biochemistry. The latter part will concentrate more on fundamental aspects of inorganic Chemistry. Emphasis will be placed on the relationships between chemical bonding and the structures and properties of molecules.

RESEARCH SKILLS IN BIOCHEMISTRY

Code CHE-4602Y

Credits 20

If you are a Biochemistry student, this module will provide you with practical and research skills. In the laboratory, you will experience experimental and computational aspects of different areas of chemistry: organic, inorganic, analytical and physical. The experiments and simulations provide practical chemistry skills, complementing lectures in other first year modules. In seminars and workshops, you will develops skills such as analysing data, using references critically, and presenting results in different formats.

PHYSICAL AND ANALYTICAL METHODS IN BIOCHEMISTRY

Code BIO-4007Y

Credits 20

To understand Life we have to study and understand the molecular properties of life's components. For any biochemist these are cells, energy, macromolecules, biochemical reactions and transport (of energy or chemical components). The tools we use as scientists in our quest for understanding life are various physical and analytical methods. You will be introduced to the basic principles of thermodynamics, chemical equilibria, electrochemistry, and reaction kinetics. You will conclude the module by having a look at various physical and analytical techniques that are being used in current Biochemistry. This lectures will introduce you and provide you with essential information about some of the physical principles that underpin our understanding of molecular and cellular systems. The complementary seminar series will help to consolidate your understanding through applying this knowledge to selected topics in biochemistry and provide you with the opportunity to develop skills in problem solving, data analysis, scientific writing, and presentation. The module is also enriched with six math workshops. In these workshops you are going to consolidate but also further develop basic and more advanced mathematical skills that directly relate with this module but that will also assist you for the duration of your degree.

BIOCHEMISTRY AND CELL BIOLOGY

Code BIO-4016B

Credits 20

This module will provide an introduction to fundamental aspects of biochemistry and cell biology. The essential roles played by proteins and enzymes in signalling, transport and metabolism will be considered in terms of their structures. You will discover how living cells are visualised and the nature of cell membranes and organelles.

MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND GENETICS

Code BIO-4018A

Credits 20

This module explores how information is stored in DNA, how it is expressed, copied and repaired, and how DNA is transmitted between generations. It has significant focus on the application of molecular biological and genetics knowledge, including animal, plant and microbial biotechnology and synthetic biology.

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Important Information

Modules in the 'Core Modules' range have to be taken and passed and are not eligible for compensation.

Assessment for Year 3

Compulsory Modules

BIOCHEMISTRY

Code BIO-5002A

Credits 20

This module aims to develop your understanding of contemporary biochemistry, especially in relation to mammalian physiology and metabolism. There will be a particular focus on proteins and their involvement in cellular reactions, bioenergetics and signalling processes.

MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

Code BIO-5003B

Credits 20

You will be given a background to the fundamental principles of molecular biology, in particular the nature of the relationship between genetic information and the synthesis, and three dimensional structures, of macromolecules. You will also gain practical experience of some of the techniques used for the experimental manipulation of genetic material, and the necessary theoretical framework. The module also includes an introduction to bioinformatics, the computer-assisted analysis of DNA and protein sequence information.

BIOPHYSICAL CHEMISTRY

Code CHE-5601Y

Credits 20

This module will equip you with an understanding of the principles and techniques used in contemporary biophysical chemistry. You will learn experimental techniques for measuring thermodynamic and kinetic properties of biological molecules. You will gain firm grounding in the physical principles describing those properties and their use to provide quantitative descriptions of those properties. Using predominantly examples from protein biochemistry you will explore three major themes; i) spectroscopic properties of biomolecules, ii) thermodynamic and kinetic properties of proteins and enzymes, and, iii) methods defining biomolecule size and mass. Through weekly seminars you will benefit from putting your knowledge into practice, communicating your ideas and growing your confidence in quantitative data analysis and problem solving. During laboratory based practical work, you will develop your skills in sample preparation together with the collection and interpretation of spectroscopic data. Your participation in this module will give you the knowledge to appreciate how, and why, biophysical chemistry contributes to advances in medicine, sustainable energy solutions and healthy ageing.

MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY

Code CHE-5150Y

Credits 20

Medicinal chemistry is a highly interdisciplinary area and this module is designed to introduce a variety of topics in the field of medicinal chemistry. Some of the topics that will be discussed in a series of lectures include, Molecular and biomolecular interactions, Biomolecules: Proteins and nucleic acids, Phases of drug action, Pharmacokinetics, Proteins and receptors as drug targets, DNA as a drug target and development of antitumor agents.

Optional A Modules

(20 credits)

CELL BIOLOGY

Code BIO-5005B

Credits 20

This module explores the molecular organisation of cells and the regulation of cellular changes, with some emphasis on medical cell biology. Dynamic properties of cell signalling, growth factor function and aspects of cancer biology and immunology. Regulation of the internal cell environment (information flow, cell growth, division and motility), the relationship of the cell to its extracellular matrix and the determination of cell phenotype. Aspects of cell death, developmental biology, mechanisms of tissue renewal and repair. It is suggested that students taking this module should also take BIO-5003B (Molecular Biology) or BIO-5009A (Genetics).

INORGANIC CHEMISTRY

Code CHE-5301B

Credits 20

In this module, you’ll study the structure, bonding and reactivity patterns of inorganic compounds. The module is a prerequisite for the 3rd level inorganic course Inorganic Compounds: Structure and Functions. You’ll cover the electronic structure, spectroscopic and magnetic properties of transition metal complexes (ligand field theory), the chemistry of main group clusters, polymers and oligomers, the structures and reactivities of main group and transition metal organometallics, and the application of spectroscopic methods (primarily NMR, MS and IR) to inorganic compounds. You’ll have laboratory classes linked to the lecture topics and so you will need to have completed either of the level 4 practical modules, Chemistry Laboratory (A) or Research Skills in Biochemistry.

Optional B Modules

(20 credits)

GENETICS

Code BIO-5009A

Credits 20

The aim is to provide you with an appreciation of genetics at a fundamental and molecular level and to demonstrate the importance and utility of genetic studies. Genetics and molecular biology lie at the heart of biological processes, ranging from cancer biology to evolution.

ORGANIC CHEMISTRY

Code CHE-5101A

Credits 20

This course builds on Chemistry of Carbon-based Compounds (the first year organic chemistry course). You will cover four main topics. The first 'aromaticity' includes benzenoid and hetero-aromatic systems. The second major topic is the organic chemistry of carbonyl compounds. Spectroscopic characterisation of organic compounds is reviewed and the final major topic is 'stereochemistry and mechanisms'. This covers conformational aspects of acyclic and cyclic compounds. Stereoelectronic effects, Neighbouring Group Participation (NGP), Baldwin’s rules, Cram’s rule and cycloaddition reactions are then discussed.

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Important Information

Students must take BIO-6001A, CHE-6601Y and BIO-6019Y or BIO-6023Y. Students may be moved from BIO-6019Y to BIO-6023Y, based on Stage 2 results. Note that you may select no more than 20 credits of Level 5 modules to enrol on during your Stage 3 studies. Modules in the 'Core Modules' range have to be taken and passed and are not eligible for compensation.

Assessment for Year 4

Compulsory Modules

RESEARCH PROJECT

Code BIO-6019Y

Credits 40

This module will provide an understanding of how to conduct an independent, hypothesis driven research project. Projects involve extensive data collection, either in the laboratory or field, of a particular topic supervised by a member of staff of Biological Sciences or an affiliated institute. Topics are chosen in consultation with the supervisor. The project report is submitted at the end of the Spring Semester. Students may be moved to the module 'Integrated Laboratory Research Project' based on Stage 2 results. Some supervisors require particular module enrolment for placement in their laboratory.

INTEGRATED LABORATORY RESEARCH PROJECT

Code BIO-6023Y

Credits 40

Primarily an alternative to the ‘Research Project’ module, this module provides you with an introduction to biological research. It provides you an insight into the development of a hypothesis or questions to test, experimental design, and critical analysis. You will develop crucial research and work skills, including group work.

MOLECULAR ENZYMOLOGY IN BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE

Code BIO-6001A

Credits 20

The module sets out to explain the molecular basis of the often complex catalytic mechanisms of enzymes concentrating particularly on their relevance to and applications in biotechnology and medicine. An extended practical based on the kinetics of a model enzyme, chymotrypsin, helps underpin concepts learnt in the module.

PROTEIN STRUCTURE, CHEMISTRY AND ENGINEERING

Code CHE-6601Y

Credits 20

The structural basis of the function of many proteins has been elucidated and this, together with the ready availability of chemical and biochemical techniques for altering proteins in a controlled way, has led to the application of proteins in a wide variety of biological and chemical systems and processes. These include their use as industrial catalysts and medicines, in organic syntheses and in the development of new materials. This module provides an introduction to the principles underlying this rapidly expanding and commercially-relevant area of the molecular biosciences and gives insights into their applications.

Optional A Modules

(0-40 credits)

CELLULAR SIGNALLING

Code BIO-6003A

Credits 20

How do cells receive and react to information from their external environment? What is the molecular basis for how cells respond to external signalling cues and how does this relate to physiological processes? In this module you will study cellular signalling by ion channels, G protein-coupled receptors, enzyme-linked receptors; the associated signal transduction mechanisms and relevance to human physiology and disease. The module includes aspects of the molecular basis of cellular signalling, structure-function relationships and pharmacology. You will study the molecular basis of cellular signalling by three principle receptor families, namely ion channels, G protein-coupled receptors and enzyme-linked receptors. You will build on your knowledge of cell biology and human physiology to deepen your understanding of cellular signalling. You will learn through lectures and independent study.

INORGANIC CHEMISTRY

Code CHE-5301B

Credits 20

Optional B Modules

(0-40 credits)

PLANT BIOLOGY

Code BIO-5006A

Credits 20

The module studies the biochemical, physiological and developmental processes of plants.

MICROBIOLOGY

Code BIO-5015B

Credits 20

A broad module covering all aspects of the biology of microorganisms, providing key knowledge for specialist modules. Detailed description is given about the cell biology of bacteria, fungi and protists together with microbial physiology, genetics and environmental and applied microbiology. The biology of disease-causing microorganisms (bacteria, viruses) and prions is also covered. Practical work provides hands-on experience of important microbiological techniques, and expands on concepts introduced in lectures. The module should appeal to biology students across a wide range of disciplines and interests.

MICROBIAL BIOTECHNOLOGY

Code BIO-6004A

Credits 20

This module provides an overview of the uses of microorganisms in biotechnological principles. It provides training in the basic principles that control microbiological culture growth, the microbial physiology and genetics that underpin the production of bioproducts such as biofuels, bioplastics, antibiotics and food products, as well as the use of micro-organisms in wastewater treatment and bioremediation.

MICROBIAL CELL BIOLOGY

Code BIO-6005B

Credits 20

This module will provide you with a detailed understanding of cutting-edge developments in microbial cell biology. You will cover essential techniques used to carry out modern day molecular microbiology. These techniques will be further explained to you in the context of work done on model microbial systems in research conducted on the Norwich Research Park (NRP). The module is taught to you by world-leading research scientists from the NRP and focuses on the structure and analysis of bacterial genomes, the bacterial cytoskeleton, sub-cellular localisation, cell shape and cell division and intercellular communication between bacteria and higher organisms. You will also have research-led seminars delivered by NRP PhD students.

CELL BIOLOGY AND MECHANISMS OF DISEASE

Code BIO-6006B

Credits 20

Do you want to learn about the key topics within cell biology and understand how these relate to human diseases? You will learn about the structure and function of cells in health and disease through a combination of practical demonstrations, where you will experience some of the imaging techniques used in the study of Cell Biology. You will also participate in a workshop, where you will learn how to design experiments. This module will provide you with a solid understanding of aspects of cell structure, function and related diseases concerning: ubiquitination; the cytoskeleton; cell division; cell signalling in motility and wound healing; the extracellular matrix; growth factors and proliferation; cell differentiation and adult stem cells and apoptosis.

CANCER BIOLOGY

Code BIO-6009A

Credits 20

On this module you will learn about the various roles of genes in cancer cell signalling, the cell cycle, cell death processes such as apoptosis, metastasis and angiogenesis, and discuss the potential for novel therapies. The use of animal models and the problems with drug resistance will be discussed. You will develop key skills in the critical analysis of primary cancer research papers. We work closely with experts at the Norfolk & Norwich University Hospital wherever possible, enabling you to gain an in-depth appreciation of cancer as a disease process from both the scientific and clinical viewpoints.

EMBRYO DEVELOPMENT AND STEM CELL BIOLOGY

Code BIO-6012A

Credits 20

You will study the mechanisms that drive embryonic development, including the signals and signalling pathways that lead to the establishment of the body plan, pattern formation, differentiation and organogenesis. Your lectures will cover different model organisms used in the study of development with a focus on vertebrate systems. The relevance of embryonic development to our understanding of human development and disease is a recurring theme throughout the module, which also covers stem cells and organoids and their role in enhancing our understanding of development and disease, healthy tissue maintenance and drug discovery.

ORGANIC COMPOUNDS: SYNTHESIS AND PROPERTIES

Code CHE-6101Y

Credits 20

You will cover several key topics required to plan the synthesis of organic compounds, and to understand the properties displayed by organic compounds. The first topic is on synthesis planning, strategy and analysis, supported by a study of further important oxidation and reduction reactions. The second topic is on the various types of pericyclic reactions and understanding the stereochemistry displayed by an analysis of frontier orbitals. The third topic is on the use of organometallic compounds in synthesis with a particular emphasis on the use of transition metal based catalysts. The fourth topic is the synthesis of chiral non-racemic compounds, and describes the use of chiral pool compounds and methods for the amplification of chiral information, including asymmettric reductions and oxidations.The final topic is on physical organic chemistry and includes aspects of radical chemistry.

INORGANIC COMPOUNDS: STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION

Code CHE-6301Y

Credits 20

This module concentrates on two important themes in contemporary inorganic chemistry: (i) the role of transition metals in homogeneous catalysis; (ii) the correlation between the structures of transition metal complexes and their electronic and magnetic properties. The structure and bonding in these compounds will be discussed as well as their applications in synthesis. There will be a series of problem-solving workshops interspersed with the lectures.

Optional C Modules

(0-40 credits)

HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY

Code BIO-5004A

Credits 20

This module will provide you with an understanding of the themes and principles of physiology and a detailed knowledge of the major human organ systems. An understanding of how disease affects the ability of organ systems to maintain the status quo will be an important part of this course.

CELL BIOLOGY

Code BIO-5005B

Credits 20

INFECTION AND IMMUNITY

Code BIO-6010B

Credits 20

This module provides a detailed coverage of the biology of selected infectious microorganisms, in the context of host and responses to pathogens. The properties of organs, cells and molecules of the immune system are described, along with the mechanism of antibody diversity generation, and the exploitation of the immune response for vaccine development. Examples of pathogens are used to illustrate major virulence strategies.

GENOMES, GENES AND GENOMICS

Code BIO-6013A

Credits 20

This module will provide you with knowledge of the biological analysis of genomes. This will focus on our understanding of genome composition, organisation and evolution, and the global regulation of gene expression. When you have completed this module you will understand contemporary methods that inform us about the biology of genomes.

TOPICS IN ORGANIC CHEMISTRY

Code CHE-6151Y

Credits 20

This module is to provide an awareness of new bond construction in advanced organic chemistry. It has aspects of natural product chemistry and the associated bioactivity of natural compounds. The module will illustrate how advanced synthetic chemistry can be used to construct compounds that might find applications in the pharmaceutical industry.

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Important Information

Entry Requirements

A Levels

CCC. Science A-Levels must include a pass in the practical element.

BTEC

MMM

Scottish highers

BBCCC

Scottish highers advanced

DDD

Irish leaving certificate

6 subjects at H4

Access course

Pass the Access to HE Diploma with 45 credits at Level 3

European Baccalaureate

60%

International Baccalaureate

28 points overall

GCSE 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

We 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.

If you are currently studying your level 3 qualifications, we may be able to give you a reduced grade offer based on these circumstances:

• You live in an area with low progression to higher education (we use Polar 4, quintile 1 & 2 data)

• You will be 21 years of age or over at the start of the course
• You have been in care or you are a young full time carer
• You are studying at a school which our Outreach Team are working closely with

Alternative Qualifications

UEA recognises that some students take a mixture of International Baccalaureate IB or International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme IBCP study rather than the full diploma, taking Higher levels in addition to A levels and/or BTEC qualifications. At UEA we do consider a combination of qualifications for entry, provided a minimum of three qualifications are taken at a higher Level. In addition some degree programmes require specific subjects at a higher level.

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 only.

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UEA Award

Develop your skills, build a strong CV and focus your extra-curricular activities while studying with our employer-valued UEA award.

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Foundation Year: What to Expect

Do you know what a foundation year entails? Let our students explain.

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Foundation Year: Top Tips

Our students pass on advice from their own experiences of a foundation year.

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Foundation Year: The Benefits

Hear our students talk about why they think a foundation year is a good idea.

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Course Reference Number: 1545017

BSc BIOCHEMISTRY WITH A FOUNDATION YEAR