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Published: 18 January 2021

A week in the life of a biochemistry student

From microbiology lectures to laboratory-based practicals, discover what a typical week looks like as a first-year BSc (Hons) and MSci (Hons) Biochemistry student at Surrey.

How you'll learn

Your teaching throughout the course will be delivered through a combination of:

  • Group work (e.g. discussion groups)
  • Laboratory-based practicals
  • Lectures
  • Online learning
  • Role plays
  • Seminars
  • Tutorials.

Outside of these, you’ll be expected to carry out independent study, including coursework, essays, laboratory write-ups and reading.

We’ve also introduced hybrid learning, a mix of online and face-to-face sessions, in light of the Covid-19 pandemic.

"I like the practical elements of some modules. The wet lab experience gives you an advantage over other applicants when applying for jobs."
Harriet Hicks, BSc (Hons) Biochemistry

A typical week in Semester 1 of your first year

In your first year, you'll receive approximately 18 contact hours each week.

Monday

  • 11am to 1pm – 'Biochemistry – Understanding the Chemistry of Life' lecture
  • 2pm to 5pm – 'Cell Biology' laboratory session

Tuesday

  • 9am to 10am – 'Microbiology: An Introduction to the Microbial World' lecture
  • 11am to 1pm – 'Exploring Biochemistry' group workshop

Wednesday

  • 9am to 10pm – 'Biochemistry – Understanding the Chemistry of Life' lecture
  • 11am to 12pm – 'Biochemistry – Understanding the Chemistry of Life' lecture

Please note, Wednesday afternoons are left free for sporting activities.

Thursday

  • 9am to 12pm – 'Biochemistry – Understanding the Chemistry of Life' laboratory session
  • 12pm to 1pm – 'Microbiology: An Introduction to the Microbial World' lecture

Friday

  • 4pm to 5pm – 'Cell Biology' lecture
  • 5pm to 6pm – 'Biochemistry – Understanding the Chemistry of Life' drop-in session

Find out more about our biochemistry course

Taster lectures

Get a flavour for life as a biochemistry student by watching some of our taster lectures:

Disclaimer

The timetable and modules listed are indicative, reflecting the information available at the time of publication and may be subject to teaching availability, student demand and/or class size caps.

Given the changing nature of the Covid-19 pandemic, our hybrid learning model is under continuous review. See the latest information on all changes.

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