About Biochemistry (bsc (hons)) in University College Cork

BSc Biochemistry is the study of living organisms, particularly the human body, at cellular and sub-cellular levels and is an excellent stepping stone for entry into medicine, dentistry and pharmacy.

Core subjects are cell biochemistry and biology, genetics, biotechnology, metabolism and protein science, with an emphasis on understanding normal and disease states. The lecture course is supplemented by practical classes, where you learn the principles and methodology of research.

The School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology is highly active in research. Final-year research projects are carried out in state-of-the-art laboratories, under the supervision of internationally recognised researchers. BSc Biochemistry provides you with a solid foundation in research, analytical approaches and critical thinking.

Biochemistry graduates have excellent career prospects in the biopharmaceutical and biotechnological industries and in the broad biomedical research area, including drug development and disease diagnoses. BSc Biochemistry is recognised by the Teaching Council.

The School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology is highly active in research, which gives you access to a wide range of cutting-edge expertise.

Undergraduate students in Biochemistry have the opportunity to engage in research first hand through an independent research project in their final year.  Masters and PhD research opportunities for Biochemistry graduates are excellent.

Biochemistry graduates enjoy excellent employment opportunities and have a wide choice of career options in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, biomedical, environmental monitoring and medical diagnostic areas.

A degree in Biochemistry is an excellent foundation for all careers relating to human health and is a very appropriate foundation degree for graduate medicine.

Placement or Study Abroad Information

While there is no work placement incorporated into this course, the School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology facilitates you in finding summer laboratory work at the end of Year 3. In addition, in Year 4, each student carries out an independent research project in a biochemistry research laboratory, which our students find to be one of the highlights of the course.

Skills and Careers Information

BSc Biochemistry provides you with a broad scientific knowledge and research skills. You also gain transferable skills including: team-work, communication, writing, presentation, problem-solving and analytical skills.

Biochemistry graduates work in a broad range of areas. Biochemists work in companies and research laboratories in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, biomedical, environmental monitoring, and medical diagnostic areas. Biochemists also work in the education sector as teachers and lecturers.

Job opportunities are plentiful, salaries are competitive and career development opportunities are good. A large number of BSc graduates opt for further training through MSc and PhD degrees, as this enhances job opportunities and career development prospects.

Academic qualification equivalents

 1.    All India Senior School Certificate 

 2.    Higher Secondary Certificate / Standard 12 

 3.    Indian School Certificate (Year 12) 

Band 1 Programmes

Minimum average of 90% + in any of the recognised secondary school qualifications.

Band 2 Programmes

Minimum average of 80-89% in any of the recognised secondary school qualifications.

Band 3 Programmes

Minimum average of 75-79% in any of the recognised secondary school qualifications.

Additional Requirements

Where Maths is required for a specific degree programme, a minimum score of 85% in Maths is required.

Where a Lab Science subject is required for a specific degree programme, a minimum score of 85% is required in the appropriate Lab Science subject.

English language requirements (one of the below):

• IELTS: 6.5  Minimum individual sections 5.5
• TOEFL: TOEFL 90  Listening - 17; Reading - 18; Speaking - 20; Writing 17
• PTE: 63 Minimum individual sections 51

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