Study Biochemistry at Oxford
Biochemistry is the study of life at the molecular level. At Oxford, you will explore how to investigate, explain, and manipulate biological processes using advanced methods like genome editing, super-resolution microscopy, and CryoEM. This helps you understand the origin of life, disease, and how living things develop. You’ll also gain skills in drug design, synthetic biology, and environmental monitoring, making this a truly interdisciplinary subject that connects medicine, physics, chemistry, and cell biology.
Oxford’s Biochemistry Department is one of the largest in Europe and offers excellent teaching, research, and digital resources. In the fourth year, you’ll work on a project, design your own experiments, and share your findings with other researchers. This hands-on experience is highly valued by employers, and many students choose to continue in research after graduation. You can also do your project in other departments like Statistics, Pathology, or even outside the UK.
Course overview
Course Details
UCAS code: C700
Entrance requirements: A*AA including Chemistry and another science or Maths, with the A* in Maths, Physics, Chemistry, or Biology (or a closely related subject).
Course duration: 4 years (MBiochem)
Subject requirements
Course Requirements
Required subjects: Chemistry and another science or Maths
Recommended subjects: Maths
Helpful subjects: Biology (beyond GCSE)
Other course requirements
Admissions Information
Admissions tests: None
Written Work: None
Admissions statistics
Admissions Statistics
Interviewed: 41%
Successful: 12%
Intake: 100
Course structure
Year 1
Courses | Assessment |
Five courses are taken: · Cellular biochemistry · Molecular biochemistry · Mechanistic biochemistry · Physical biochemistry · Quantitative biochemistry | First University examinations: five written papers; satisfactory practical record |
Years 2 and 3
Courses | Assessment |
Teaching is delivered in one-week blocks, each focused on one of five core themes. · Tool boxes for biochemistry · Information transfer in biological systems · Molecular processes in the cell · Cellular chemistry · The cell in time and space | Summative assessments (four, two-hour assessments in years 2 and 3). |
Year 4 (including extended first term)
Courses | Assessment |
· Research project: · Coursework: | Research Project: Includes a written dissertation and an oral presentation. Read further information about potential course changes.In certain circumstances, the content and structure of this course may be subject to change. Review article: Written review article. |
The content and format of this course may change in some circumstances.
What a Typical Week Looks Like – Year 1
In your first year, your weekly schedule will include 8 to 10 lectures, 1 to 3 tutorials or classes, and up to a full day of practical work. The rest of your time will be spent on independent study and preparing for tutorials.
Tutorials usually involve 2–4 students working closely with a tutor to explore a topic. Classes may also be offered, depending on the subject, with group sizes typically around 10–12 students.
During practicals, the staff-to-student ratio is about 1:12 for lab work and up to 1:25 for computer-based sessions. Most lectures and tutorials are led by academic staff, many of whom are experts in their fields. You may also be taught by postdoctoral researchers or postgraduate students.
Departmental classes and practicals are overseen by senior staff, with support from researchers studying for their doctorates.
At the end of Year 1, you’ll take preliminary exams (prelims) in all your subjects. You must pass these to move on to Year 2, though resits are available in summer if needed.
Year 2-3 : Immersive Learning
In your second and third years, you’ll still have lectures, tutorials, and practicals, but the teaching will be arranged in themed blocks. Each block focuses on a specific biochemical question.
A typical block might include up to 8 lectures and hands-on work or data analysis to explore the topic in depth.
Year 4
Your final year is focused on a major research project that runs for most of the year. This includes both lab-based work and investigation of recent advances in biochemistry, supported by skills training in communication, research planning, and career development.
You’ll work under the guidance of a research group leader, designing your own experiments, managing your research, and presenting your findings in written and oral formats. Many student projects even contribute to published research.
In addition to the main project, you’ll write a review article summarising recent work in a chosen area of biochemistry.
You must be in Oxford for an extended 12-week first term, with your project continuing through the second term and early third term. You’ll submit a written dissertation and give a presentation on your project at the end.
Admission requirements
Qualification | Requirement |
A-levels: | AAA, with Chemistry and one other Science or Mathematics subject required. The A grade must be in either Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, or a closely related subject.” |
Advanced Highers: | “Applicants taking three Advanced Highers must achieve AAB, including an A in Chemistry and at least an A or B in another Science or Mathematics subject. For those taking two Advanced Highers and one Higher, grades of AAA are required, with an A in Advanced Higher Chemistry and an A in another Science or Mathematics subject at either Advanced Higher or Higher level.” |
International Baccalaureate (IB): | “A total score of 39 points (including core points) is required, with a 7 in Higher Level Chemistry and a 6 in two other relevant subjects at either Higher or Standard Level.” |
Any other equivalent qualification: | View information on other UK qualifications, and international qualifications |
Wherever possible, your grades are considered in the context in which they have been achieved.
Read how to apply for a scholarship Oxford university
Required Subject
Essential
Chemistry to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or any other equivalent, plus another science or Mathematics.
Recommended
Mathematics to A-level or the equivalent is recommended to students in completing the course and, although not required for admission, may make an application more competitive.
Helpful
Biology beyond GCSE or the equivalent (eg AS-level, Scottish Highers, Standard Level in the IB) can be helpful to students in completing the course, although is not required for admission. More detailed information is available on the department website.
Applications
All applicants must follow the application process outlined on our “Applying to Oxford” pages. The information below provides specific guidance for those applying to this course.You are not required to take a written test or submit any written work as part of your application.
What do tutors look for?
Since Biochemistry is not offered as an A-level subject, tutors do not expect applicants to have prior in-depth knowledge. However, if you are shortlisted for an interview, they will be looking for a genuine and informed interest in the subject—this might come from exploring podcasts, videos, books, or science articles. Tutors will also assess your ability to apply knowledge from your other science subjects to analyse problems, form logical conclusions, and express your own ideas.
For more detailed information on the selection criteria, please visit the Biochemistry course website.
Careers & Future
Biochemistry includes many scientific fields such as cell biology, genetics, microbiology, biophysics, and biomedical sciences. Because it covers so much, graduates have a wide variety of career options. These can range from jobs in education, law, finance, data science, and publishing, to roles in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and academic research.
Around 60% of biochemistry graduates continue with research or further study, mainly in areas related to biochemistry. You can find more information about careers in biochemistry on the UK Biochemical Society website.
James, a graduate of the course who now works in science communication, shares:
“The Oxford biochemistry course gave me a strong foundation in many areas of biochemistry, along with a deep understanding of how scientific research works in practice. My career in science communication began thanks to the experiences and opportunities I had during this course.”
Fees
Fee status | Annual Course fees |
Home | £ 9,535.00 |
Overseas | £ 51,880.00 |
Further details about fee status eligibility can be found on the fee status webpage.
For more information please refer to our course fees page. Fees will usually increase annually. For details, please see our guidance on likely increases to fees and charges.
Living Expenses
Living costs at Oxford may be lower than you expect, thanks to the university’s excellent resources and college support, which help reduce expenses. For the 2025 academic year, monthly living costs are estimated to range from £1,425 to £2,035 while you’re in Oxford. Since the academic year consists of three eight-week terms, most students only need to be in Oxford for about six months. However, it’s a good idea to budget for around nine months to cover essential costs during holidaysaswell.
Additional Fees and Charges Information for Biochemistry (Molecular and Cellular)
In the final year of the Biochemistry course, students begin their research project during an extended first term, which lasts 12 weeks.
Because of this longer term, you should plan for higher living expenses in your final year, as you’ll need to stay in Oxford for more time than during the standard terms.
Life at College
Oxford’s colleges are central to its global reputation for academic excellence. Every student belongs to both a college and their academic department, meaning you benefit from being part of a large, world-renowned university as well as a close-knit and supportive college community.
Colleges provide a welcoming environment where you can focus on your studies, build friendships, and enjoy a wide range of opportunities. While each college has its own unique character, they all offer similar essential facilities, including:
- A porters’ lodge (staffed entrance and reception)
- Dining hall
- 24/7 lending library (during term time)
- Student accommodation
- Tutors’ teaching rooms
- Chapel and/or music rooms
- Laundry facilities
- Green spaces
- Common room (called the JCR – Junior Common Room)
All first-year students are guaranteed accommodation, either on the main college site or in a nearby annexe. This helps you settle in alongside other new students without worrying about finding housing before you arrive.
Most colleges offer at least one additional year of accommodation, and some offer housing for your entire degree. You can choose to stay in college or move into private housing with friends after your first year.
Colleges also provide strong academic and personal support. In addition to your tutors, who guide your academic progress, there are welfare staff and trained student peer supporters to help with personal or practical matters. Many students are also supported through the college ‘family’ system, where older students mentor new arrivals.
Final Thoughts
The Biochemistry (Molecular and Cellular) course at Oxford offers a rigorous and multidisciplinary education that prepares students for a wide range of scientific careers and advanced research opportunities. With world-class teaching, cutting-edge facilities, and a supportive collegiate environment, students gain not only deep theoretical knowledge but also valuable practical skills through hands-on research projects and immersive learning experiences. The program’s emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches equips graduates to excel in diverse fields—from biotechnology and pharmaceuticals to science communication and data science. Moreover, Oxford’s strong links with industry and academia provide exceptional career support and networking opportunities. Prospective students with a passion for understanding life at the molecular level and a commitment to academic excellence will find this course an ideal foundation for a rewarding and impactful career.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the essential subject requirements for the Biochemistry course?
Applicants must have Chemistry to A-level (or equivalent) plus another science subject or Mathematics. Mathematics is recommended but not mandatory, and Biology beyond GCSE can be helpful.
Is prior experience in Biochemistry required before applying?
No prior in-depth knowledge of Biochemistry is required. Tutors look for a genuine interest in the subject and the ability to apply scientific reasoning and problem-solving skills.
What does a typical week look like for first-year students?
In Year 1, students attend 8–10 lectures, 1–3 tutorials or classes, and practical sessions. Tutorials involve small group discussions, while practicals have a low staff-to-student ratio.
What career opportunities are available after graduation?
Graduates pursue careers in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, academia, science communication, data science, finance, and many other fields. Around 60% continue with research or further study.
Are there any admissions tests or written work required?
No admissions tests or written work are required as part of the application. Selection focuses on academic qualifications, personal statement, and interview performance.