Biochemistry with Foundation University of Reading

Overview

Our University of Reading 's Biochemistry with Foundation is a four-year programme that includes a year of foundational study and leads directly into the three-year course.

Key facts

Molecules are at the centre of all life from the smallest virus to the largest animal. Biochemists seek to understand how molecular processes control life at various levels; how do molecules make cells work, how do these cells coordinate in an organ and finally, how do these organs signal and work together for life to function? Biochemistry is at the forefront of understanding how molecules control and affect life, and an appreciation of these concepts allows biochemists to answer life’s fundamental questions and contribute to resolving critical biological problems such as designing drugs to treat cancer or even bacteria that can clean up an oil spill.

Why study Biochemistry at the University of Reading?

• Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology and you can apply for Chartered Biologist status upon graduation.

• Experience an interdisciplinary approach to biochemistry, taught by research-active experts and invited professionals.

• You will use state-of-the-art facilities during practicals and research projects.

• Excellent feedback from students: 96% of our students said teaching staff are good at explaining things (National Student Survey 2025, 95.5% of responders from BSc Biochemistry).

• Networking opportunities: The University is located in the Thames Valley corridor, giving you networking opportunities with biochemical, chemical, pharmaceutical, cell biology and informatics companies at careers fairs and events.

• Placement opportunities: Dedicated support for year-long and summer placement opportunities, including ringed-fenced positions at internationally renowned companies and organisations.

• Ranked in the UK's top 10 universities for biosciences (the Daily Mail University Guide, 2024).