Biochemical Society - Becoming a biochemist

Becoming a biochemist

The path to becoming a biochemist is a challenging but engaging one. It takes several years of education to become a professional in the field, but even the learning process itself can be incredibly rewarding. Whilst studying, you will be learning about the cutting edge of current bioscience research whilst working with high tech scientific equipment in real laboratory environments.

The skills you acquire when studying to become a biochemist are essential not just for a career in biochemistry, but also for any other job you apply for. Indeed, training in biochemistry makes you incredibly desirable not just to biosciences employers, but to almost all graduate employers.

A Levels, equivalent qualifications and science foundation years

To study biochemistry, you need to start preparing early on. Taking the right courses to give yourself a good basic knowledge in science is essential. The most common route to entering university to study a biochemistry-related degree is to first complete the correct A-Levels or equivalent qualifications.

Subjects you should consider studying prior to applying for university include:

Biology: A prerequisite for almost all Biochemistry and related degrees. It will provide you with a basic knowledge of biochemical interactions in the body, as well as an introduction to genetics, cell biology and enzymology, all key Biochemistry topics.
Chemistry: Another essential prerequisite to study Biochemistry at most institutions. It will teach you the essential skills you will need for working in a lab, such as calculating sample concentrations, and provide you with a good understanding of the chemical principles that underpin Biochemistry.
Mathematics: Although not a prerequisite for many Biochemistry courses, a lot of Biochemistry revolves around interpreting statistical data and calculating concentrations, kinetics and constants. Studying maths will support the study of key biochemistry disciplines.
Communication subjects: Subjects such as English and History will teach you good communication skills, giving you an edge over many other first year students.

If you don't have suitable qualifications or background knowledge to begin a degree in Biochemistry, many universities offer a Science Foundation year. This will provide you with all the skills and qualifications you will need to move on to studying Biochemistry at undergraduate level, and often require GCSEs or equivalent qualifications.

Biochemistry courses for 2011

If you're looking for a course, download our free up-to-date prospectus of biochemistry-related undergraduate and foundation year university courses for 2011, complete with entrance requirements.