BSc Hons Biochemistry & Pharmacology at University of Strathclyde

Study with us

• our Institute of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences (SIPBS) is a leading centre for research focused on new medicines, better medicines and better use of medicines
• study how drugs and other chemicals affect the functions of the body and underpins the development of new or improved medicines and the treatment of disease
• develop understanding of the molecular basis of life, and how alteration of these molecular pathways leads to disease processes
• this joint Honours degree course combines biochemistry and pharmacology and is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology
• we're ranked 1st in the UK for Pharmacology & Pharmacy in the Complete University Guide 2020

Why this course?

Biochemistry is the study of the composition, metabolism and function of biological systems at a molecular level. Biochemistry and the related field of molecular biology provide important advances in understanding the molecular basis of life and its role in the disease process.

Pharmacology is the study of how drugs and other chemicals affect the body in health and disease. This area explores the development of new and improved medicines and the treatment of disease.

The opportunity to choose specific degree combinations will allow you to go into specialist biomedical science areas such as neuroscience, cardiovascular research, immunopharmacology, industrial immunology, drug research, biochemistry, microbiology and bacteriology.

Course content

In Year 1, you’ll study classes in Cells & their Molecules, Organisms & Diseases and Bio-Organic Chemistry.  These are all underpinned by the Being a Biomolecular Scientist class which begins with basic laboratory skills, statistical and data analysis and presentation, report writing, health and safety and ethics.

In Year 2, you’ll gain an introduction to each of the four disciplines (biochemistry, immunology, microbiology and pharmacology) again supported by the Being a Biomolecular Scientist class which develops various skills gained in Year 1. There’s a strong emphasis on practical laboratory skills and the development of generic skills such as scientific writing and problem-solving.

In Years 3 and 4 you'll take specialist classes along with a research project in biochemistry and pharmacology. In Year 4, you'll present a dissertation of your work.

Careers

You could be involved in the development of drugs, food processing, protecting the environment, fighting disease or even slowing down the ageing process.

Our graduates find jobs in the pharmaceutical, biotech and agrochemical industries, hospitals and public service laboratories, environmental centres, analytical and forensic science labs, universities, the scientific civil service and teaching at all levels.

Many students also continue to postgraduate studies and research.

The transferable skills you gain from this course will not only prepare you for a career in science but also areas such as finance, management, marketing, sales, business and media.