Biochemistry Extended Degree

The extended degree is run by experienced staff and is carefully designed to be supportive and motivating, to help build confidence and academic ability, as well as an understanding of what academic study involves. The BSc Biochemistry Extended Degree includes a foundation year (Year 0), to prepare you for the challenge of studying an undergraduate degree. Throughout this course you'll gain an in-depth knowledge of key disciplines, including biology and chemistry.

Some of your teaching and learning will take place in our £30 million Science Centre, one of the biggest and most advanced science centers in Europe. You'll have access to 280 workstations, allowing you to work independently on different experiments. We'll help you develop theoretical and practical skills, allowing you to analyse and understand biochemical information and data. This will also raise your awareness of the social and ethical dimensions in which contemporary biochemistry operates. Assessment consists of progress tests, online tests, coursework, practical reports and presentations.

Entry requirements

In addition to the University's standard entry requirements, you should have:

• At least one A level (or a minimum of 32 UCAS points from an equivalent Level 3 qualification, eg BTEC Subsidiary/National/BTEC Extended Diploma).
• English Language and Mathematics GCSEs at grade C (grade 4) or above (or equivalent eg Functional Skills at Level 2). Applicants who meet the UCAS points criteria but who obtained a D (grade 3) in English and/or Maths at GCSE may be offered a University test in these areas

All applicants must be able to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. Applicants who require a Tier 4 student visa may need to provide a Secure English Language Test (SELT) such as Academic IELTS. For more information about English qualifications please see our English language requirements.

Other applicants may have level 3 qualifications such as A level, BTEC Extended Diploma or Access to Higher education qualifications with high UCAS points and grades, but not in the relevant subject areas, eg. Biology and Chemistry, which are required to study for BSc programmes in the School of Human Sciences.

Modular structure

The modules listed below are for the academic year 2018/19 and represent the course modules at this time. Modules and module details (including, but not limited to, location and time) are subject to change over time. Year 1 modules include:

• Biochemistry (core, 30 credits)
• Biology (core, 30 credits)
• Chemistry (core, 30 credits)
• Scientific Studies (core, 30 credits)

After the course

Graduates can find careers in medical research, forensic science, hospital and public health laboratories, pharmaceutical, food and agricultural industries. The analytical, numerical and communication skills acquired from the degree are useful in careers such as accountancy, journalism, marketing and teaching. There is also the option of further study at postgraduate level.

What is an extended degree?

Extended degrees provide applicants with an alternative route into higher education. If you do not have traditional qualifications or cannot meet the entry requirements for an undergraduate degree, you may still be able to gain entry by completing an extended degree. Extended degrees include a Year 0, which is also known as a foundation year. Once you successfully complete your first year of study you will progress into Year 1 of an undergraduate degree.