MSc Biochemistry Handbook

On behalf of the School of Biological Sciences, I would like to welcome you to Scotland, the University of Edinburgh, and this taught MSc programme in Biochemistry. We hope you will have a successful and enjoyable time with us.

This guide provides basic information about the programme.

The MSc in Biochemistry comprises two components:

• September 2025 – April 2026: taught courses with assessments;
• May – August 2026: 12-week Research Project culminating in an assessed Dissertation

The taught courses will develop your knowledge, skills, and understanding of biochemistry. You will then apply these abilities in the Research Project to investigate real biological problems. The Research Project is also a key element in helping you decide whether to continue in academic research—for example, by pursuing a PhD—or to develop your career outside academia. Our aim is that this blend of taught courses and an independent Research Project will prepare you for your chosen career far more effectively than moving directly from an undergraduate degree. The transferable skills you will develop, including communication, time management, project planning and independent thinking, should be invaluable in your future career.

All students on this programme have already completed an undergraduate degree in some branch of the biological sciences; however, because you come from different courses and cultures, your background knowledge and experience will vary. I particularly want to emphasise that you are not in competition with one another, and I encourage you to get to know each other quickly so that you can learn together, share your skills, and help each other. This will also help you build your own network of academic friends around the world.

For some of you, this will be your first experience of a UK university, and our ways of doing things may differ from what you are used to. One of our aims is to ensure that you appreciate the international standards for scientific research and understand that the essence of becoming a scientist is to take the initiative and to be responsible for—and be proud of—your own work.

While you are here, your welfare is just as important to us as your education. If you encounter any problems, please speak to someone as soon as possible rather than worrying alone. If the issue relates to a particular academic course, you should talk to the course organiser first; if you prefer, you are always welcome to contact me. You will also be assigned a Student Adviser to provide pastoral and academic support throughout the year. Additionally, the University offers a comprehensive student-welfare system that is available to all who need help. Please remember that we are here to support you and that any problems are best resolved quickly.

Finally, on behalf of everyone associated with the programme, I wish you every success and hope that you enjoy your time here. I look forward to meeting you.

Dr Janice Bramham

The compulsory and optional courses for your programme are listed in the Degree Programme Table (DPT).

Students are not allowed to take more than a total of 30 credits below level 11. 

An alternative appropriate course may be substituted with the permission of the Programme Director.

Information relating to assessments and their deadlines are detailed in the associated course page on Learn. Note that access to our Learn Ultra Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) is restricted to current students only.

Personalised Timetables

Information on your timetable can be accessed via MyEd.  

• This includes a personalised timetable service called MyTimetable.
• Your personalised timetable also appears on Office 365 calendars, which you can view on your smartphone or other device. 

Access your timetable on MyEd

Timetable information for students

As a member of the School of Biological Sciences, you are welcome to visit the office or contact staff if you have a query.