Biology and Chemistry MSci

With science and its challenges making today’s global headlines, studying this research-led modular degree will help you develop the necessary skills you’ll need to pursue a career in the science sector and beyond.

The MSci Biology and Chemistry degree is meticulously crafted to equip students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills in Biochemistry and Bioactive Chemistry.

The transferable skills gained also prepare you for a career in sectors such as product development, health sciences and pharmaceuticals business, finance and education. The curriculum links academic theory with practical experience taught by subject discipline specialists.

In Year 1 you will study the fundamental aspects of biology and chemistry that are the basics of scientific research.

Year 2 concentrates on providing the skills required for research-led learning.

Year 3 places a strong emphasis on research, with the taught content directly linked to research being carried out.

The final year focuses on an interdisciplinary research project at postgraduate level that is delivered by the Departments of Bioscience and Chemistry. It runs through the academic year, providing hands-on experience working alongside academic staff doing world-leading research.

You can also apply for a one-year work placement, increasing the course from four years to five or the potential to substitute the existing Year 3 with a year abroad.

Course structure

Year 1 modules

Core modules:

Molecules and Cells

gives an overview of cells and their molecular components. It explores the structure and functions of proteins and biological membranes; cellular metabolism and energy-generating processes; and communication and signalling between cells.

Genetics

introduces the development of genetics and the processes linking genotype to phenotype in living organisms. It provides an overview of modern technologies for genetic analysis and manipulation.

Core Chemistry I

introduces the fundamentals of chemistry. Areas covered include structure and bonding, chemical periodicity, coordination chemistry, organic chemistry, chemical kinetics, units and dimensions, spectroscopy and proof of structure.

Practical Chemistry 1A

develops the basic manipulative, procedural and soft skills required for practical chemistry. The module provides a foundation in research-led practical chemistry.

EITHER

The Mathematical and Experimental Tools Required in Chemistry (METRiC) module builds on your pre-university mathematical skills.

OR

Linear Algebra and Calculus that builds a deep knowledge of mathematical foundations that is suitable for those with an obsessive interest in Mathematics

OR

Single Mathematics A and B has background mathematical knowledge that is used in the sciences and is suitable for those with a strong interest in Mathematics.

Optional modules:

In recent years optional modules have included:

 · Introduction to Physiology

· Organisms and Environment

· Introduction to Materials Chemistry and Practical Chemistry 1B

Year 2 modules

Core modules:

Molecular Biology

examines the central role of molecular biology in modern biosciences and methods of gene analysis and gene manipulation. In this module you will cover recombinant DNA techniques, transcription and translation in eukaryotes, principles of gene regulation and bioinformatics.

Metabolism

provides a global view of the functioning of the metabolic network in the cell, through an exploration of catalysis and biochemical pathways in depth. This module also explores relationships between protein structure and function.

Cell Signalling

looks at the different mechanisms by which cells respond to external stimuli. You will also study the steps of signal transduction mechanisms and comparative aspects of signalling processes in organisms from different kingdoms.

Core Chemistry 2

builds broad knowledge of inorganic, physical and organic chemistry into more specialised concepts such as Organic Chemistry of π-systems, Organic synthesis and retrosynthetic analysis.

Structure and Reactivity in Organic Chemistry

explores how the structure of molecules affects reactions, ring chemistry and stereochemistry.

Practical Chemistry 2 – Synthetic

becomes more intensive and advanced in Year 2 such as the interpret of spectroscopic data and complex experimental design.

Year 3 modules

Core modules:

Biochemistry and Biotechnology

will look at recombinant protein production and manipulation in industrial, pharmaceutical and research uses. You will also learn about yeast cell biology and about aspects of biochemistry which are relevant to biotechnology, such as microbial transport and roles of metal ions in biological processes.

Stress And Responses To The Environment

provide an advanced overview of how selected organisms respond to examples of abiotic and biotic stresses and develops a detailed understanding to detect, respond, and adapt to the stresses.

Bioactive Chemistry 3

develops the fundamentals of chemistry through in-depth discussion of selected areas such as Pericyclic transformations in synthetic organic chemistry, Selectivity in organic transformations, Molecular biophysics and Applied spectroscopy.

Advanced Biological Chemistry

explores the application of chemical knowledge and analytical methods to biological systems by reviewing recent biochemical literature.

Advanced Organic Chemistry

explores catalysis mechanisms, natural product biosynthesis and molecular recognition.

Practical Chemistry 3 – Synthetic

builds on the expertise gleaned in Year 2 that also complements Advanced Organic Chemistry through practical work to expands knowledge and understanding in synthetic chemistry.

Optional modules:

In recent years optional modules have included:

• Biosciences Literature Review
• Contemporary Issues in the Biosciences
• Biology Of Disease
• Genomics
• Science Enterprise

Year 4 modules

Core modules:

Research Project

introduces research at the biology-chemistry interface and imparts new experimental, analytical, theoretical and problem-solving skills through a project including laboratory work, and the writing of a research report containing work of potentially publishable novelty and quality.

Workshop

develops your knowledge of the advanced practical techniques used to undertake research in biological sciences, including biological, biochemical and molecular biological techniques.

Frontiers In Molecular Assembly

provides an advanced overview of more specialised areas of chemistry, such as classifying drugs according to their site and mode of action.

Additional Pathways

Students can apply to be transferred onto either the with  Year Abroad or with Placement pathway. Places on these pathways are in high demand and if you are chosen your studies will extend from three years to four or four to five depending on course.