The University of Adelaide

Bachelor of Science (Biochemistry)

Nationally Recognised Higher Education

Biochemistry explores life at the molecular level, from DNA and RNA, through to proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. It focuses on how each of these essential molecules forms and their specific biological functions, within cells as well as whole organisms. This knowledge can then be applied to areas such as medicine and biotechnology. For example, understanding the cause of a disease provides the basis for improved diagnosis and the development of novel drugs and other cutting-edge strategies such as CRISPR.

By studying a major in Biochemistry, you will learn directly from world-class researchers and educators who are experts in their field as you:

  • Develop an understanding of key biochemistry and molecular biology concepts, looking at areas like protein structure, gene expression, and metabolism.
  • Explore the molecular basis of major diseases, such as cancer, as well as the technical advances and medical applications used to treat them.
  • Discover the potential of rational drug design, gene editing, stem cell technology, and synthetic biology.
  • Gain practical insights into real-world research problems and projects using the latest techniques.

A major in Biochemistry prepares you for employment in areas including the pharmaceutical industry, medical and agricultural research laboratories, hospitals, private industries, sports clinics, the biotechnology industry, forensic science, science promotion, food science, and nutrition. With a major in Biochemistry, you will also be well equipped for postgraduate entry into medicine or a postgraduate career in biomedical research.

Delivery mode

The University of Adelaide offers this course through the following delivery modes:

On campus

Work with instructors and classmates in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Locations
  • The University of Adelaide, Adelaide

Entry requirements

Domestic Students

  • There are no mandated entry requirements.

Prerequisites

None, however Stage 2 Chemistry, Mathematical Methods, Physics or Specialist Mathematics are prerequisites for some first year courses

Assumed Knowledge

Stage 2 Chemistry and Mathematical Methods and Physics IB: Mathematics: Applications and Interpretations (HL) or Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches (SL); Chemistry; Physics.

Recent Secondary Education

Applicants with recent secondary education are those whose admission is primarily based on the completion of Year 12 within the last two years, however if you completed your secondary education more than two years ago, you may still be able to be considered on the basis of your secondary schooling. You must not have completed more than 2 years full time equivalent university study (48 units). You compete for a place with your Selection Rank (ATAR plus any applicable adjustment factors). Applicants who have not achieved a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR plus any applicable adjustment factors) required for selection may be selected based on the grades in selected year 12 subjects. Applicants do not need to apply to be considered for subject-based entry, as this will automatically be done by SATAC on behalf of the University.

Higher Education Study

You must have completed at least six months full time equivalent higher education study (the number of courses and units will vary depending on your prior institution however at the University of Adelaide, this equates to 4 courses / 12 units). A Grade Point Average (GPA) is calculated for each separate program you have undertaken (apart from some double degree programs where the GPA is combined). You compete on the basis of your best GPA. Indigenous applicants may be eligible for entry through the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Access Pathway.

Vocational Education and Training (VET) study

You must have completed an AQF Certificate IV or above from a Registered Training Organisation. Your application will be ranked according to the level of the award. Indigenous applicants may be eligible for entry through the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Access Pathway.

Work and life experience

To be eligible to sit the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) as as pathway for entry, you must be 18 years or over before 1 February 2023. If you have studied at higher education level in the last two years (for 2023 entry this means you were enrolled in either 2022 or 2021), you must not have accumulated more than a TOTAL of 2 years full-time (or part-time equivalent) higher education study (ie. including any study prior to 2021). If you meet this criteria, you will be ranked according to your result in the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT). Your STAT result is not weighted between verbal and quantitative components. Indigenous applicants may be eligible for entry through the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Access Pathway.

Additional requirements may apply.

Course fees

Estimated Fee* $23,565 $136,500 Fees are based on full-time study.

For more information about this course and payment options please enquire now.

Study mode On Campus
Duration 3 Years
Estimated fee* $23,565 $136,500

Career opportunities

The Bachelor of Science (Biochemistry) will prepare you for the following roles.

About The University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide is ranked in the world's top 100 universities. We are recognised globally as a leading research university.

There’s a lot happening here at the University of Adelaide. Education. Research. Innovation. But it all stems from one motivation—progress. For our students. Our community. Our world. And we can’t wait to see what’s around the next corner.

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