Everything you need to know...
International/EU: £15,860 per year (£1,200 for placement year)
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Find out more at our undergraduate open days. Book now for your place.
Course summary
- Gain knowledge and practical experience of molecular, biochemical and analytical science.
- Combine the chemical and biological sciences to understand cellular mechanisms underpinning disease and advances in diagnostic and treatment strategies.
- Apply the material taught at university to real-world experience as a biochemist with year-long or summer placement opportunities available.
- Transfer to the MSci route for a specialist year of research intensive study working alongside our internationally recognised researchers.
This is an academically challenging course which will develop your practical and digital skills. You will gain a deep understanding of the subject through placements and extensive lab work in our award-winning laboratories graduating as an experienced and employable biochemist.
If you don't meet the entry requirements for our BSc (Hons) courses, or you’d like extra preparation before starting degree-level study, we recommend you join the foundation year. You will build your confidence in biology, chemistry and maths, and apply your theoretical knowledge in practical laboratory sessions. You will also familiarise yourself with Sheffield Hallam’s staff and facilities — ensuring that you are fully prepared to begin at degree level study.
How you learn
All our courses are designed around a set of key principles based on engaging you with the world, collaborating with others, challenging you to think in new ways, and providing you with a supportive environment in which you can thrive.
Through the study of modules including molecular biology, analytical science, cell biology and organic and biological chemistry you will gain an in-depth understanding of a breadth of biochemistry with the flexibility to choose optional subjects in your second and final years focussing your specialisms.
The foundation course content is delivered and assessed in a variety of innovative and exciting ways, helping you to gain skills required for success on your chosen degree route. You will study 6 modules designed to prepare you for future success while studying one of our bioscience or chemistry degrees. Attending and participating in the laboratory activities is central to your course, as it is where you develop not only practical skills, but also learn to keep effective records and analyse data, as well as working both independently and with others.
With a strong focus on employability throughout your course you will be equipped with the knowledge and skills desired by graduate science-sector employers or post graduate education providers.
You learn through
- lectures
- interactive workshops
- small group academic tutorials
- scenario-based laboratory classes
- project work
Course leaders and tutors
Dr Nikki Jordan-Mahy
BSc/MSci Biochemistry Course Leader and Principal LecturerDr Nikki Jordan-Mahy is the BSc/MSci Biochemistry Course Leader and Principal Lecturer at Sheffield Hallam University. She is a graduate of Royal Holloway and Bedfor … Read more
Applied learning
Work placements
Between your second and final year of study you have the opportunity to apply for a year-long work placement. This is a great opportunity to gain experience and professional skills that will give you a significant advantage at the start of your career. Or if you’re unable to commit to a year, it’s also possible to work for a shorter period of time during a summer placement (which can still contribute towards your degree).
Completion of a year-long work placement will allow you to achieve an Advanced Professional Diploma alongside your degree.
By securing a placement with one of our industry partners, you will enter the jobs market with a CV that attracts employer attention. You can apply for placements in companies such as Reckitt Benckiser, GlaxoSmithKline, AstraZeneca, The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute or in research laboratories, universities and hospitals.
If you are undertaking a work placement in another European country, there may be the possibility of funding through the Erasmus+ programme (until 2023) or the Turing scheme.
Research projects
During your final year you will combine the skills and knowledge you have gained to undertake a specialist research project working alongside an expert in your chosen subject area. Opportunities are available for both lab and non lab-based science projects allowing you the flexibility to focus on a specific area of interest.
Networking opportunities
On top of your work placement, the course has excellent links to potential employers and previous graduates, allowing you plenty of opportunities for networking.
Future careers
This course prepares you for a wide range of careers including:
- medical research
- clinical science
- analytical science
- scientific sales and marketing
- pharmaceutical research and development
- biotechnology industry
- scientific communication/journalism
Graduates have also progressed to further study on specialist masters courses and PhDs or have gone into teaching.
Previous graduates of this course have gone on to work for world-leading companies such as:
- senior study scientists in the Biological Immunoassay Department at Huntingdon Life Science, Cambridge
- food biochemists at Marks & Spencer
- analytical scientists at Covance and Reckitt Benckiser
- graduate scientists at stem cell production company Future Health
Where will I study?
You study at City Campus through a structured mix of lectures, seminars and practical sessions as well as access to digital and online resources to support your learning.
City Campus
City Campus is located in the heart of Sheffield, within minutes of the train and bus stations.
City Campus map | City Campus tour | Keeping safe on Campus
Adsetts library
Adsetts Library is located on our City Campus. It's open 24 hours a day, every day.
Learn moreEquipment and facilities
Our teaching and research laboratories are equipped with industry standard instrumentation which you will learn how to use in scenario-based practical sessions. Examples of facilities you will have access to include:
- nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrophotometers
- state-of-the-art mass spectrometry equipment
- our award-winning cell culture suite with laminar flow hoods and incubators
- an extensive range of analytical equipment, such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography (GC)
- real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) equipment for quantitative analysis of nucleic acids
- high-powered fluorescent and confocal microscopes for cell and tissue analysis
Learn more about your department
Biosciences and Chemistry Facilities Tour
Take a look around the biosciences and chemistry facilities at Sheffield Hallam University with senior lecturer and recruitment lead Dr Susan Campbell.
Entry requirements
All students
UCAS points
- 64
From A levels to include at least 24 points in any one A level and at least 16 points from a science subject (biology/chemistry/human biology). Or BTEC National qualification in Applied Science. We do not accept general studies. For example:
- MPP in BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science.
- Pass overall from a T level qualification in either Health -Care Science or Science with D or E from core.
- A combination of qualifications, which may include AS levels and EPQ.
You can find information on making sense of UCAS tariff points here and use the UCAS tariff calculator to work out your points.
• Access - an Access to HE Diploma from a QAA recognised Access to HE course in a science based subject considered. Normally we require 15 credits at level 2 and 45 at level 3.
GCSE
- English Language at grade C or 4 or equivalent
- Maths at grade C or 4 or equivalent
- Science at grade C or 4
If English is not your first language you will need an IELTS score of 6.0 or above, with a minimum score of 5.5 in each skill.
If you do not have any of the qualifications above but have relevant experience, you are welcome to discuss potential opportunities with the admissions tutor.
Please note the University will only admit students who are aged 18 or over at the point of enrolment.
Additional information for EU/International students
If you are an International or non-UK European student, you can find out more about the country specific qualifications we accept on our international qualifications page.
For details of English language entry requirements (IELTS), please see the information for 'All students'.
Modules
Module and assessment information for future years is displayed as currently validated and may be liable to change. When selecting electives, your choices will be subject to the core requirements of the course. As a result, selections may be limited to a choice between one of two or more specified electives in some instances.
You will be able to complete a placement year as part of this course. See the modules table below for further information.
Year 1
| Module | Credits | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Module: Biology: Cells And Molecules | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework Exam |
| Module: Biology: Organs And Systems | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework Exam |
| Module: Chemistry: Atoms To Molecules | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework Exam |
| Module: Chemistry: Energy And Reactions | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework Exam |
| Module: Developing Skills For Science | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework |
| Module: Foundation Skills For Science | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework |
Year 2
| Module | Credits | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Module: Applied Topics In Chemistry | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework Exam |
| Module: Cellular Biology And Biochemistry With Microbiology | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework Exam |
| Module: Demonstrating Professional Skills For Scientists | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework |
| Module: Human Physiology And Anatomy | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework Exam |
| Module: Introducing Professional Skills For Scientists | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework |
| Module: Principles Of Chemical Analysis | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework |
Year 3
| Module | Credits | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Module: Applications Of Analytical Science | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework Exam |
| Module: Molecular Biology And Biochemistry | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework Exam |
| Module: Professional And Scientific Practice 2 | Credits: 40 |
Assessment:
Coursework Practical |
| Module: Topics In Biochemistry | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework |
| Module | Credits | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Module: Advanced Cell Biology | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework Exam |
| Module: Organic And Biosynthetic Chemistry | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework Exam |
Year 4
| Module | Credits | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Module: Professional And Scientific Practice 3 | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework |
Final year
| Module | Credits | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Module: Advanced Analytical Science | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework Exam |
| Module: Advanced Professional Skills For Scientists | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework |
| Module: Applied Biochemistry | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework |
| Module: Research Project | Credits: 40 |
Assessment:
Coursework |
| Module | Credits | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Module: Advanced Chemical Synthesis | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework Exam |
| Module: Advanced Genetics | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework Exam |
| Module: Bioethics And Human Genetics | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework Exam |
| Module: Medicinal Chemistry And Drug Discovery | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Coursework Exam |
| Module: Pharmacology | Credits: 20 |
Assessment:
Exam Practical |
Fees and funding
Home students
Our tuition fee for UK students starting full-time undergraduate study in 2023/24 is £9,250 per year. These fees are regulated by the UK government and are therefore subject to changes in government policy. During your placement year you will pay a reduced fee of £1,200.
If you are studying an undergraduate course, postgraduate pre-registration course or postgraduate research course over more than one academic year then your tuition fees may increase in subsequent years in line with Government regulations or UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) published fees. More information can be found in our terms and conditions under student fees regulations.
International students
Our tuition fee for International/EU students starting full-time study in 2023/24 is £15,860 per year. During your placement year you will pay a reduced fee of £1,200.
Financial support for home/EU students
How tuition fees work, student loans and other financial support available.
Additional course costs
This link allows you to view estimated costs associated with the main activities on specific courses. These are estimates and, as such, are only an indication of additional course costs. Actual costs can vary greatly depending on the choices you make during your course.
Additional costs for Biosciences and chemistry courses (PDF, 241.3KB)Legal information
Any offer of a place to study is subject to your acceptance of the University’s Terms and Conditions and Student Regulations.
