Biochemistry is the study of living systems at a molecular level. Biochemists are interested in the components that make up cells, how they are formed and how they interact to function. You will study the structure and function of macromolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids and carbohydrates, and biological systems from cell extracts to whole organisms.
Biochemistry is the foundation for modern-day drug design and development, and is based on the study of 3D structure of drugs and their protein targets. It complements the field of pharmacology and drug delivery. |
These courses are intended as guidelines. Speak to your guidance counsellor to see what courses are offered at your school.
The typical offer is likely to be:
• SQA Highers: AAAA.
• A Levels: AAA.
• IB: 37 points with 555 at HL.
Minimum entry requirements
• SQA Highers: AABB by end of S5 or AABBB/AAAB (S4-S6), to include Biology and Chemistry; grade A is required in one of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics. Qualified applicants are strongly advised to take Biology and Chemistry at Advanced Higher level where possible. National 5: Mathematics or Physics at grade B. English at grade B.
• A Levels: ABB in one sitting, to include Biology and Chemistry; Grade A is required in one of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics. GCSEs: English at Grade B. Mathematics or Physics at Grade B.
• IB: 32 points overall and award of IB Diploma with 555 at HL to include Biology and Chemistry. Diploma must include Mathematics or Physics at SL 6. |
| Additional Admission Requirements: | You must provide evidence that your written and spoken English is at a level that will enable you to succeed in your studies.
If English is not your first language, you must have one of the following qualifications as evidence of your spoken and written English:
• IELTS Academic module overall 6.5 with 5.5 in each component
• TOEFL iBT 92 or above with 20 in each section
• Cambridge English: Advanced & Proficiency overall 176 with 162 in each component
• Pearson Test of English (Academic): Total 61 with at least 51 in each "Communicative Skills" section
• Trinity ISE: ISE II with a distinction in all four components
SQA and GCSE
For SQA and GCSE students, unless a higher level is specified in the stated entry requirements, a pass is required in English at the following grades or higher:
• SQA National 5 Grade C
• SQA Standard Grade 3
• SQA Intermediate 1 Grade A
• SQA Intermediate 2 Grade C
• GCSE Grade C
• IB Standard Level Grade 4 |
* We make every attempt to provide accurate information on prerequisites, programs, and tuition. However, this information is subject to change without notice and we highly recommend that you contact the school to confirm important information before applying.
