Biochemistry

Biochemistry is the molecular science of life, examining the chemical processes and structures that enable living cells to function, replicate, and respond to their environments. It sits at the interface of biology and chemistry, asking how the molecules of life, including DNA, proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates, are built and how they work together to produce the complex behaviours of living organisms. The breadth of applications spans medicine, where biochemical understanding underlies drug discovery and disease diagnostics, agriculture, where plant biochemistry informs the development of improved crops, and industry, where biochemical processes are harnessed in biotechnology and manufacturing.

At Royal Holloway, University of London, this three-year, full-time programme provides comprehensive coverage of biochemistry principles and a flexible structure that allows you to tailor your studies to your own interests. You can pursue medically oriented content, explore plant biochemistry, or focus on industrial and applied aspects of the discipline, or combine elements from across the spectrum. The programme includes a sandwich placement year for extended professional experience, a year abroad, and work placement throughout the course, giving you substantial practical and international exposure alongside your academic study.

A typical entry tariff of 120 points reflects an accessible admissions profile for a scientifically demanding programme. Graduates from biochemistry programmes go on to careers in pharmaceutical and biotechnology research, clinical biochemistry, food science, environmental science, biomedical research, medical communications, and regulatory affairs. The degree is also a strong foundation for graduate entry to medicine, dentistry, or veterinary science, and for postgraduate study in biochemistry, molecular biology, structural biology, or closely related fields.

Royal Holloway's location in London's commuter belt gives you access to a wide range of employers and placement opportunities in the life sciences sector.