BSc (Hons) BIOCHEMISTRY WITH A PLACEMENT YEAR
BSC (HONS) BIOCHEMISTRY WITH A PLACEMENT YEAR
Immerse yourself in the wonder of biological organisms and processes at the molecular level. Explore all aspects of life from molecules to cells, tissues and organisms, right up to populations and ecosystems. Learn from leading research scientists who are specialists in their fields of study. In the most recent Times Higher Education REF Analysis (2021), we were ranked 17th overall for research quality in Biological Science.
Spend a year working on placement gaining valuable experience, contacts and insight. 
This course is for you if you have a strong background in chemistry and are enthusiastic about applying this to the study of biological systems. It is ideal if you want to go on to work in industry, or to progress to a PhD and a career in research. 
As a biochemist, you’ll have the potential to make an impact on many areas of contemporary science, including health, nutrition, clean energy and tackling pollution. Biochemists are frequent winners of the Nobel Prize for Chemistry and Michael Houghton, an alumnus of the UEA School of Biological Sciences and Biochemistry PhD, won the Nobel prize for Physiology or Medicine in 2020.
About
On this course, you’ll follow the same programme as our BSc Biochemistry students, but you will spend your third year working in industry – perhaps in a pharmaceutical company, or a biotechnology or research institute laboratory. Here you’ll gain experience and insight that’s highly valued by future employers, putting you one step ahead of other graduates. Our biochemistry degrees are taught jointly by the Schools of Biological Sciences and Chemistry. This dual approach means that in all elements of the course you benefit from subject-specific experts who inform our undergraduate teaching. Both Schools have research environments recognized to be internationally excellent and with researchers generating outputs of international standing.
Our research makes use of a wide array of facilities such as multi-photon and laser scanning confocal microscopes for the study of cells and tissues at the molecular level, high-field nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometers and X-ray diffractometers for the study of molecular structure, mass spectrometers, liquid and gas chromatography systems, and fluorescence and electron microscopes.  
You will benefit from our enviable position as an integral partner of the Norwich Research Park, which is also home to the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital and independent, world-renowned research institutes such as the John Innes Centre (research in plant and microbial sciences), the Sainsbury Laboratory (plant-microbe interactions), the Earlham Institute (computational biosciences and biotechnology) and the Quadram Institute (gut health, microbiology and food science). 
 
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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.Accreditation
This course has received Advanced Accreditation from the Royal Society of Biology. Advanced accreditation recognises academic excellence in the biosciences, and highlights degrees that educate the research and development leaders and innovators of the future. The advanced accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including substantial research experience. 
The current accreditation is for a five-year period, from 2019 to 2024. We expect to apply for renewal at the end of this period.
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Placement Year and Study Abroad
On this course, you’ll spend your third year working on a placement that is relevant to your interests, gaining experience and skills that are highly valued by future employers. You will be expected to seek your own work placement, and in the first two weeks of your second year you will be asked to write a CV and apply to a range of companies. Not only will this ensure that you work within your preferred field, it will also provide you with the essential job-hunting skills you will require after graduation. We will, of course, offer our guidance and support whilst you are identifying and negotiating placement opportunities. 
During this placement year, you’ll be supported by a workplace supervisor and a mentor from the university. You and your supervisor will feed back during the placement to ensure that it is progressing well, and your UEA mentor will visit you during the year. 
Please note that we cannot guarantee any student a work placement as this decision rests with potential employers. 
If you are unable to secure a work placement by the end of your second year, you will have the option to apply to transfer onto the equivalent degree programme without a placement year or the Biochemistry MSci degree.
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After the Course
Your biochemistry degree could lead to a broad range of employment and postgraduate opportunities. You may go on to work in biotechnology, medicinal chemistry, clinical biochemistry, forensic science, the brewing and food industries, medical biochemistry, science patenting or teaching. 
Alternatively, you might choose to progress to a higher degree. A significant number of our graduates have gone on to doctoral study and then have taken up posts in university, medical or industrial research laboratories. We work with UEA’s Careers Service to offer you support at every stage of your course, from choosing a career through to applying for graduate jobs and further study. 
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.
Examples of careers that you could enter include: 
- Medical or industrial research
- Biotechnology
- Medicinal chemistry
- Clinical biochemistry
- Science patenting
- Brewing and food industries
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Assessment for Year 1
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 between modules. 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. 
Your placement year itself is assessed by an extended written report and a presentation upon returning to UEA. These are assessed on a pass/fail basis. 
Assessment for Year 2
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 between modules. 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. 
Your placement year itself is assessed by an extended written report and a presentation upon returning to UEA. These are assessed on a pass/fail basis. 
Assessment for Year 3
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 between modules. 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. 
Your placement year itself is assessed by an extended written report and a presentation upon returning to UEA. These are assessed on a pass/fail basis. 
Assessment for Year 4
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 between modules. 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. 
Your placement year itself is assessed by an extended written report and a presentation upon returning to UEA. These are assessed on a pass/fail basis. 
Assessment for Year 1
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 between modules. 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. 
Your placement year itself is assessed by an extended written report and a presentation upon returning to UEA. These are assessed on a pass/fail basis. 
Important Information
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.Modules in the 'Core Modules' range have to be taken and passed and are not eligible for compensation.
Assessment for Year 2
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 between modules. 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. 
Your placement year itself is assessed by an extended written report and a presentation upon returning to UEA. These are assessed on a pass/fail basis. 
Important Information
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.Assessment for Year 3
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 between modules. 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. 
Your placement year itself is assessed by an extended written report and a presentation upon returning to UEA. These are assessed on a pass/fail basis. 
Important Information
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.Students must take BIO-6001A, CHE-6601B and BIO-6019Y. 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
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 between modules. 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. 
Your placement year itself is assessed by an extended written report and a presentation upon returning to UEA. These are assessed on a pass/fail basis. 
Important Information
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.Entry Requirements
A Levels
AAB including Chemistry. If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer, if you achieve an A in the EPQ.T Levels
Obtain an overall Pass including an A in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. Acceptable subjects are: Health, Healthcare Science and ScienceBTEC
DDD in Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science). Specific modules required or A Level Chemistry grade B. Excludes Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business AdministrationScottish highers
AAAAA including ChemistryScottish highers advanced
BBC including ChemistryIrish leaving certificate
4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3 including ChemistryAccess course
Not acceptedEuropean Baccalaureate
80% overall including grade 7 in ChemistryInternational Baccalaureate
33 points with HL 5 in ChemistryGCSE 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. Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element.
BTEC applicants must be studying the following modules:
Applications of Inorganic Chemistry
Applications of Organic Chemistry
Practical Chemical Analysis
If you have not studied all of the listed modules, A Level Chemistry grade X will be required to meet the subject specific requirement.
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as BSc Biochemistry with a Foundation Year.
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.
International Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.
INTO University of East Anglia
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree:
International Foundation in Pharmacy, Health and Life Sciences (for Year 1 entry to UEA)
International Foundation in Physical Sciences and Engineering (for Year 1 entry to UEA)
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: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components) for year 1 entry
- IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in all components) for year 2 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.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA, offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
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 and International 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
You are eligible for reduced fees during the year in industry. Further details are available on our Tuition Fee website. There may be extra costs related to items such as travel and accommodation during your year in industry, which will vary depending on location. 
View our information about Additional Course Fees.
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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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