Medical Biochemistry

Many of today’s common diseases are linked to defects in the molecular processes that occur in the body. To make big breakthroughs in diagnosing and treating disease, we therefore often have to look at life at the molecular level. Studying biochemistry in this way will give you an understanding of some of the world’s most pressing health issues.

Course description
This course will give you a firm grounding in modern biochemistry, covering a broad range of topics with particular emphasis on how the subject relates to medicine and health issues. You will explore the fundamental biochemical processes of cells and how they are controlled, and learn about how these processes go wrong in disease states. By understanding the molecular defects that occur in a particular disease, you will learn how scientists and clinicians can work together to design appropriate drugs that target the affected molecules. There is an emphasis on emerging technologies that are being used to address key issues in human health, including gene editing, as well as consideration of the ethics dilemmas of these approaches.

On this course you will develop a range of skills that are valued by employers, including practical, analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as gaining experience in handling complex information. You will also develop transferable skills in time-management, meeting deadlines, giving oral presentations and working in teams to achieve a goal. You will have some flexibility to study modules in other biological sciences specialisms, enabling you to apply your knowledge across the boundaries of traditional disciplines and become a valuable and powerful asset in scientific environments and in many other walks of life.

This course is identical to the first three years of the MBiolSci in Medical Biosciences (Biochemistry).

This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for the purpose of meeting (in part) the academic and experience requirement for the Membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol). Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.

What's the difference?
At the University of Leicester, we offer seven Biological Science subjects and four Medical Bioscience subjects, all as BSc (three years) and most as MBiolSci (four years), plus a Foundation Year option, giving you an impressive range of different courses to choose from.

Biological Science covers major aspects of biology and molecular science across a wide range of organisms from bacteria and fungi to humans and plants. All 14 courses share a common first year so you can change to a different degree before the end of Year 1.
Medical Science allows you to select specialist modules that focus more closely on the application of biological principles to medicine. All eight courses share a common first year so you can change to a different degree before the end of Year 1.
It is possible to switch between a Biological Science course and a Medical Bioscience course during the first half of your first year, but after that the two fields diverge.

Leicester isn't just a top 25 UK university (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025) and Daily Mail's University of the Year 2025. It's cutting-edge research, world-class facilities, an incredible network of expert teaching staff, a warm campus community, and a place to call home.

What's more, all Clearing applicants are guaranteed a place in Leicester's accommodation! Expect modern furnishings, speedy Wi-Fi and cosy lounge areas - all at a range of costs and sizes. To secure a spot, make sure you've completed your application before 1st September.

With a student body made up of Midlanders, Brits, and people from across the world, you're bound to make friends for life at Leicester. Whatever you're passionate about, there are plenty of opportunities to meet like-minded people, with societies including Film, Debating, Art, Bollywood, Archery & Tennis. Leicester is also one of the most student-friendly cities in the UK. You've got music venues, bars, pubs & clubs all on your doorstep!