Biochemistry is a laboratory-based subject that uses chemical knowledge and techniques to understand and solve biological problems.
Over the past century, biochemists have made many important scientific breakthroughs that have had a big impact on many areas of science, including medicine, agriculture, and the environment.
By studying biochemistry, you will learn about the chemical processes and reactions within living organisms. You will also learn about the latest scientific discoveries, and eventually be able to contribute to the exciting new advances still to come.
Careers
Knowledge and skills from a biochemistry degree are valuable in many different career areas.
Since biochemistry underpins many of the other life sciences, it allows you to specialise in a range of different subjects at a later date. This flexibility allows you to keep your career options open.
BIOC 192: Foundations of Biochemistry
The very first biochemistry paper you will enrol for is BIOC 192: Foundations of Biochemistry. This is a second semester paper with one prerequisite: CHEM 191 (CHEM 112).
Thinking of taking biochemistry at Otago?
This video explains what biochemistry is, where a degree in biochemistry can take you, and introduces you to studying biochemistry at Otago.
For specific queries on biochemistry-related course advice, please email bioch.evision@otago.ac.nz.
Contacts for advice, support and assistance
Programme requirements
Bachelor of Science (BSc) majoring in Biochemistry
| Level | Papers | Points |
|---|---|---|
| 100-level | BIOC 192 Foundations of Biochemistry CELS 191 Cell and Molecular Biology CHEM 191 The Chemical Basis of Biology and Human Health At least one of: | 18 18 18
18 |
| 200-level | BIOC 221 Molecular Biology BIOC 222 Proteins in Industry and Medicine BIOC 223 Cellular Biochemistry and Metabolism | 18 18 18 |
| 300-level | BIOC 351 Advanced Protein Biochemistry BIOC 352 Advanced Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics BIOC 353 Molecular Basis of Health and Disease BIOC 360 Research Perspectives in Biochemistry With Head of Department approval, one 300-level BIOC paper may be replaced by another relevant 300-level paper. | 18 18 18 18 |
| Plus | 162 further points (GENE 221 Molecular and Microbial Genetics strongly recommended); must include 54 points at 200-level or above. Up to 90 points may be taken from outside Science. | 162 |
| Total | 360 |
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Regulations on this page are taken from the 2023 Calendar and supplementary material.
