Biochemistry
Mātai Matū Koiora
Qualifications
Overview
Biochemistry brings together chemistry, physics and molecular biology with a view to understanding the chemistry of life. Such a unique and privileged position at the interface of the traditional sciences makes for a dynamic and exciting discipline. It provides basic insight into biological processes such as enzyme action, drug discovery and design, the molecular basis for disease, gene expression and control, and food biochemistry such as protein biosynthesis.
Biochemistry is at the cutting edge of contemporary science, research, and industry. Biochemical innovation is critical in adding value to Aotearoa New Zealand's agricultural production, advancing medicine, and understanding the fundamentals of the biological world around us.
- UC has modern state-of-the-art teaching and research facilities.
- Our postgraduate courses are taught by leading national and visiting international researchers. Many of our staff have received University and or National Tertiary Teaching Excellence Awards.
- Biochemistry is taught by active research staff from Te Kura Matū | School of Physical and Chemical Sciences, and Te Kura Pūtaiao Koiora | School of Biological Sciences. They bring the latest knowledge from their research to a coordinated Biochemistry programme.
- The Biomolecular Interaction Centre is a collaborative research centre with state-of-the-art equipment that features direct ties to other universities and to industrial research organisations.
Students undertaking postgraduate study in Biochemistry must meet the entry requirements of their chosen qualification and have a solid foundation in Biological Science and Biochemistry.
Prerequisites:
- (1) BCHM 305, BCHM 306, BCHM338, BCHM339 and BCHM381; and
- (2) a minimum of 15 points from CHEM 335, 337, 340, BIOL 313, 330, 351 or 352.
UC offers the following postgraduate programmes in Biochemistry:
- Graduate Diploma in Science
- Bachelor of Science with Honours
- Postgraduate Certificate in Science
- Postgraduate Diploma in Science
- Master of Science
- Doctor of Philosophy
See the individual qualification pages for more information on degree requirements.
Bachelor of Science with Honours majoring in Biochemistry
Students will complete BCHM 480 Project, and another 90 points of BCHM 400-level courses. Some BIOL and CHEM courses may also be included.
Graduate Diploma in Science specialising in Biochemistry
To complete a GradDipSc with a Biochemistry focus, students will need to complete at least 60 points in 100-300 level BCHM courses throughout their degree. In total 90 points must be at 300-level in the GradDipSc from Biochemistry and/or other Science courses.
Postgraduate Certificate in Science majoring in Biochemistry
Students need to complete at least 45 points in BCHM 400-level courses for the major. In total 60 points must be completed for the PGCertSc from Biochemistry and/or other Science courses.
Postgraduate Diploma majoring in Biochemistry
At least 120 points (8 courses) from 400-level BCHM is required for the major. Some BIOL and CHEM courses may also be included.
Master of Science majoring in Biochemistry
Part I of the MSc in Biochemistry is 120 points (8 courses) from 400-level BCHM. Some BIOL and CHEM courses may also be included. Students need a B+ Grade Point Average to proceed to Part II of the degree.
Part II requires BCHM 690 MSc Thesis.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biochemistry
In the PhD, students need to pass a thesis of original research in the Biochemistry field (BCHM 790 Biochemistry PhD).
Biochemical innovation is critical in adding value to Aotearoa New Zealand's agricultural production, as well as in understanding the fundamentals of the biological world around us. Biochemistry graduates are sought after all over the world.
Contact us
Te Kura Matū | School of Physical and Chemical Sciences
Phone +64 3 369 3100
Email physical-chemical-sciences@canterbury.ac.nz
Location
Levels 3 and 4, Beatrice Tinsley building – see campus maps
Postal address
Te Kaupeka Pūtaiao | Faculty of Science
Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury
Private Bag 4800
Christchurch 8140
New Zealand
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