University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The Biochemistry major provides a foundation in chemical and molecular principles that underpin living systems, delivered through a mixture of lectures, tutorials and extensive laboratory sessions. Early-year subjects typically cover general chemistry, cell biology, genetics and molecular biology to build essential conceptual and practical skills. Core biochemistry topics include enzyme structure and kinetics, metabolic pathways, macromolecular structure and function, protein biochemistry, and molecular genetics.

As you progress, you will undertake practical laboratory units that teach modern biochemical techniques such as chromatography, electrophoresis, spectrophotometry, PCR and basic bioinformatics. Final-year study commonly includes advanced topics (for example structural biology, systems biochemistry or biochemical pharmacology) and a substantial research project or capstone unit that develops experimental design, data analysis and scientific communication skills. The degree also allows elective choices across related areas such as microbiology, immunology, cell signalling, computational biology and chemistry, enabling interdisciplinary study and the option to pair the major with a minor or second major.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor of Science with a Biochemistry major is competitive. Successful applicants typically present strong secondary school results with specific prerequisite subjects including chemistry; biology and mathematics are recommended. Domestic applicants gain entry through the university’s standard undergraduate admission pathways and may be considered via portfolio, bridging programmes or alternative entry schemes if academic preparation differs.

International applicants must meet the University of Adelaide’s English language requirements and demonstrate equivalent academic preparation to domestic prerequisites. Mature-aged applicants or those with prior tertiary study should consult the faculty for recognition of prior learning and pathway options to the Biochemistry major.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Biochemistry major are prepared for a wide range of careers in the life sciences. Typical destinations include laboratory-based roles in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, diagnostic and clinical laboratories, food and agricultural science, and environmental testing. The degree also provides a strong foundation for research careers—graduates often move into honours and postgraduate research (MSc/PhD) in molecular biology, biochemistry or related fields.

Other career paths include regulatory affairs, quality assurance, technical sales and product development within life-science industries, as well as roles in scientific communication, patent support and policy. Some graduates choose further professional training in fields such as medicine, dentistry or teaching, depending on additional admission requirements for those programmes.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide is research-intensive and hosts well-equipped laboratories and research centres that support molecular and biochemical research. Students benefit from hands-on teaching in modern facilities, opportunities to undertake research projects with academic supervisors, and links with local biotechnology and health-sector employers.

The university’s location within a strong health and innovation precinct provides industry engagement opportunities and access to collaborative research networks. Support services for students — including academic skills development, career advice and laboratory safety training — help prepare graduates for both employment and further study. The Biochemistry major is designed to be flexible, enabling students to tailor their degree to research interests or professional goals while building a rigorous scientific foundation.