MSci Biochemistry

Key details

MSCI BIOCHEMISTRY

Start Year

2022

Attendance

Full Time

Award

Degree of Master of Sciences

UCAS course code

C701

Entry Requirements

AAB

Duration (years)

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.

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.

In the most recent Times Higher Education REF Analysis (2021), we were ranked 17th overall for research quality in Biological Science.

About

On this course, you’ll follow the same programme as our BSc Biochemistry students, but you’ll complete a further year of advanced study. 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 recognised 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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We’re 17th for research quality!

UEA is ranked 17th overall in the Times Higher Education REF 2021 Analysis for research quality in Biological 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.

Assessment for Year 1

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 first 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.

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.

CHEMISTRY OF THE CARBON-BASED COMPOUNDS

Code CHE-4101B

Credits 20

Building on the ideas of 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. The module also introduces the chemistry of polar multiple bonds, SN1/SN2 and E1/E2 reactions, the addition reactions of alkenes, the electrophilic substitution reactions of aromatic compounds, organic synthesis and spectroscopy including the use of IR, UV and NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry to identify the products of organic reactions.

BONDING, STRUCTURE & PERIODICITY

Code CHE-4301A

Credits 20

After an 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. Emphasis will be placed on the relationships between chemical bonding and the structures and properties of molecules. The lectures of this module are supported and illustrated by the bonding, structure and periodicity experiments of the first-year practical modules, Chemistry Skills A or Research Skills in Biochemistry.

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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 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

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.

MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY

Code CHE-5150B

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.

BIOPHYSICAL CHEMISTRY

Code CHE-5601A

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. 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.

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

Assessment for Year 3

Compulsory Modules

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. A particular focus is the relationships between enzyme structure and function with a view to understanding catalytic mechanism. To enable this, students are given the opportunity to develop an appreciation of the methods by which enzyme structures are solved by X-ray crystallography, and how this data can be used to explain enzyme catalytic mechanism. With knowledge of catalytic mechanism comes the opportunity to develop inhibitors, and the module gives students an understanding of how enzyme structure data can be exploited to develop specific inhibitors as lead compounds in drug development. Through lecture and associated workshop content, descriptions are presented of how a range of physiologically- and medically-relevant enzymes work at the molecular level. These include the mechanisms by which important enzymes such as P450s detoxify xenobiotics and metabolize drugs, and the roles of serine proteases in biotechnology and medicine. A major block of the module content is concerned with developing a thorough grasp of the structure-function relationships of a range of complex molecular motors. The module also introduces techniques by which enzymes can be engineered for applications in biotechnology. There is a 2-week practical associated with the module aimed at developing the skills needed for the design and execution of solution experiments to measure the kinetic parameters of a model enzyme system. A major component of the practical enables students to gain knowledge of how to account for experimental error in the analysis of enzyme assay data and how to explain their results in terms of aspects of the enzyme mechanism.

BIOCHEMISTRY ADVANCED LABORATORY

Code BIO-6029Y

Credits 20

This module is restricted to students taking the MSci Biochemistry course and aims to provide experience of research-based experimental procedures in biochemistry. The techniques covered range from molecular cloning and protein purification to structural biology, from bioinorganic chemistry and electrochemistry to microwave spectroscopies and are carried out in research laboratories in the Schools of Biological Sciences and Chemistry. The experiments open to an individual student will depend on his/her module choice at stage 2. The experience gained in this module will be of particular benefit in helping students make an informed choice of the subject area for their Masters Research Project.

PROTEIN STRUCTURE, CHEMISTRY AND ENGINEERING

Code CHE-6601B

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-6101A

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. These will include: synthesis planning, strategy and analysis, supported by further important oxidation and reduction reactions; introduction to radical chemistry and photochemistry; various types of pericyclic reactions and understanding the stereochemistry displayed by an analysis of frontier orbitals; the synthesis of chiral non-racemic compounds, the use of chiral pool compounds and methods for the amplification of chiral information, including asymmetric organometallic reactions, reductions and oxidations.

INORGANIC COMPOUNDS: STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION

Code CHE-6301B

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-6151B

Credits 20

This module is to provide an awareness of new bond construction in advanced organic chemistry. It has aspects of natural product chemistry, new methodology 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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Open Days

Important Information

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

Assessment for Year 4

Compulsory Modules

MSCI RESEARCH PROJECT

Code BIO-7040Y

Credits 80

Gain further experience of biological research, including the formulation of hypotheses and appreciation of the processes involved in designing and carrying out experiments and determining outcomes. You will also explore skills associated with the communication of data resulting from scientific work.

TOPICS IN ADVANCED BIOPHYSICAL CHEMISTRY

Code CHE-7601Y

Credits 20

You will develop your knowledge on important biophysical concepts and methods that are widely employed in Biochemistry, Biological Chemistry, Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry. There are two main areas upon which you will focus: The first being biological systems covering key areas such as the role of metal-containing proteins; biocatalysis, membrane proteins, including transport across biological membranes and modern developments in chemical biology. The second part of the module develops further your understanding of key biophysical characterisation tools used in chemical and structural biology. You will develop on the spectroscopic/structural theme covered in the B.Sc. course by providing an in depth, specialist view of selected key biophysical methods at the forefront of research. These include (i) high resolution crystallographic techniques and x-ray spectroscopic techniques (ii) magnetic resonance techniques (both advanced nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) methods); (iii) advanced optical techniques (eg MCD and Mößbauer), (iv) Computational approaches (eg molecular dynamics) for structure determination and structure-function studies as well as understanding and determining protein-protein and protein-ligand interactions.

Optional A Modules

(0-20 credits)

BIOSCIENCE SEMINARS

Code BIO-7039Y

Credits 20

Have you ever wondered how researchers maintain a deep knowledge of their subject and stay on top of key developments in related fields? This module aims to help you develop those skills and support this your professional development as a bioscientist. Through a process of regular seminar attendance and reflection you will obtain a better understanding of your chosen area of research, gain exposure to the range of world class science taking place on the NRP and develop insight into your own progression as a researcher. And by participating in a weekly “journal club” will have the opportunity to practice deconstructing key research papers related to your project and evaluating the results for your colleagues. Assessment is based on your second journal club presentation and a portfolio of reflective reports based on the seminars that you attended.

Optional B Modules

(0-20 credits)

FRONTIERS IN MOLECULAR MEDICINE I

Code BIO-7017A

Credits 20

This module will help you to understand human diseases at the molecular and cellular level throughout the body. You’ll gain knowledge of the normal tissue function in question and how it changes in disease. You’ll also learn how research can identify molecular mechanisms underlying the diseases and lead to the design of tools for disease diagnosis, treatment and/or prevention. You’ll benefit from world-renowned experts in their field across the Norwich Research Park. You’ll learn about the usefulness of model organisms in research and become an expert in the gut, the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal system. Up-to-date knowledge on infection, ion channels and metabolism will complement and link the body system. A substantial part of the module is dedicated to stem cells and their risk and potential as therapeutic target. You’ll be assessed through an essay (30%) and a course test (70%) On successful completion of this module, you’ll have a solid background on the structure and function of various organ systems, associated diseases and get insight how disease mechanisms are identified in translational research. This will be transferable into your future career as a PhD student or medical-related work setting.

Optional C Modules

(0-20 credits)

ADVANCED TOPICS IN ORGANIC CHEMISTRY I

Code CHE-7101Y

Credits 20

Organic chemistry differs from most other areas of science in that we study what we create using the power of synthesis. In this context this module on advanced organic chemistry is the study of supermolecules – catalysts and supramolecular structures – and the methods and principles required to understand how these work. The topics are related closely to the research interests of the lecturers involved, and we hope that our enthusiasm for, and specialist knowledge of, the subjects covered will create an interesting and rewarding course that extends beyond organic chemistry to several other areas of science. In the Autumn semester the topic is asymmetric synthesis and catalysis, a discipline that is increasingly utilised in organic chemistry. In Part A the principles of asymmetric catalysis will be introduced and exemplified using metal catalysis, organo catalysis and enzyme catalysis. Such is the importance of catalysis to life that this part will include an investigation into asymmetric catalytic reactions of relevance to the origins of life. In Part B we review other methods of asymmetric synthesis, such as the use of chiral auxiliaries, and the use of asymmetric methodology for the synthesis of bioactive compounds and natural products of relevance to drug discovery programmes. In the Spring semester Part C will cover how the mechanism of an organic reaction, including a catalysed reaction, may be determined. This physical organic chemistry component of the course will provide a detailed insight into techniques and principles of use in several other areas of chemical science. Finally, in Part D, supramolecular structure will be discussed, including methods of synthesis, together with the application of these molecules in areas including materials chemistry.

ADVANCED TOPICS IN INORGANIC CHEMISTRY

Code CHE-7301Y

Credits 20

This module is an option for all final year students on our integrated Master’s degree. It builds on previous modules to present commercially relevant cutting edge science. You will learn how to tailor homogeneous catalysis to control the properties and value of commodity polymers. You will be able to describe the applications and suggest solutions to challenges in dehydrocoupling. You will be able to design novel combinations and explain the remarkable catalytic and stoichiometric reactivity of frustrated Lewis pairs. You will spectroscopically characterise and interpret multi-nuclear NMR. You will understand the principles of metallopharmaceuticals for applications in organ transplant surgery and in treating conditions like cancer and diabetes.

Optional D Modules

(0-20 credits)

GENOMES, GENES AND GENOMICS

Code BIO-7004A

Credits 20

This module will provide you with detailed knowledge of the biological analysis of genomes. The module is split into three sections centred on a) Genome organisation, evolution and expression; b) Maintaining genome integrity; and c) Regulation of gene Expression. Your lectures will cover core processes and techniques central to genomics in biological disciplines. The later lectures you’ll have on the module are devoted to research-led teaching with many discussing genomics and new research from UEA scientists. A practical associated with this module will provide you with experience of molecular biology and the ability to critically analyse experimental data related to the taught component.

INFECTION AND IMMUNITY

Code BIO-7007B

Credits 20

Learn the biology of selected infectious microorganisms in the context of host and responses to pathogens. You’ll explore the properties of organs, cells and molecules of the immune system, along with the mechanism of antibody diversity generation and the exploitation of the immune response for vaccine development. Examples of pathogens will illustrate major virulence strategies.

EVOLUTION IN HEALTH AND DISEASE

Code BIO-7008A

Credits 20

The module provides up-to-date learning in evolutionary medicine and the evolution of disease. The module examines how evolutionary principles illuminate and provide fresh insight into a broad range of contemporary health problems including infectious, chronic and nutritional diseases and disorders. Topics are introduced in a multidisciplinary approach that takes into account the relationship between biology and society. The module covers 5 areas: (i) principles of evolutionary medicine - humans in their evolutionary context; (ii) evolution and non-infectious diseases (cancer, lifestyles, ageing); (iii) evolution and infection (vaccines, antibiotics, pathogens, emerging diseases); (iv) personalised medicine and social context of evolutionary medicine; (v) case studies in ancient DNA and human evolution.

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Important Information

Entry Requirements

A Levels

AAB, or ABB with an A in the Extended Project, including Chemistry. Science A-Levels must include a pass in the practical element.

T Levels

No acceptable pathways for 2022 entry.

BTEC

DDD in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science). Excludes BTEC Public Services, Forensic Science, Uniformed Services and Business Administration.

Scottish highers

AAAAA, including Chemistry.

Scottish highers advanced

BBC, including Chemistry.

Irish leaving certificate

4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3, including Chemistry.

Access course

Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3, including 12 credits in Chemistry.

European Baccalaureate

80%, including grade 7 in Chemistry.

International Baccalaureate

33 with HL 5 in Chemistry.

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

A-Level General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.  Science A-Levels must include a pass in the practical element.

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.

Applicants without traditional A levels e.g. those with Access or BTEC qualifications may be asked to complete a chemistry test at the University during the summer. Information concerning the content of the chemistry test will be made available to such applicants.

INTO UNIVERSITY OF EAST ANGLIA 

If you do not meet the academic and/or English requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO University of East Anglia offers guaranteed 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 Science (for Year 1 entry to UEA)

International Foundation in Physical Sciences and Engineering (for Year 1 entry to UEA)

Alternative Entry Requirements

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.

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: 6.0 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. Please click here to see our full list. 

 INTO University of East Anglia  

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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We’re 17th for research quality!

UEA is ranked 17th overall in the Times Higher Education REF 2021 Analysis for research quality in Biological Science

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HEAR FROM OUR STUDENTS

Find out what it’s like to be a part of the School of Biological Sciences at UEA.

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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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Ask a Student

This is your chance to ask UEA's students about UEA, university life, Norwich and anything else you would like an answer to.

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Course Reference Number: 4478894

MSci BIOCHEMISTRY