Bachelor of Science (Honours) majoring in Biochemistry

Undergraduate | 2026

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Mode icon
Mode
Mode
Your study is primarily delivered on campus
On Campus
Start date icon
Start date
Start date
The month you will commence your studies. Exact start date is outlined in the course timetable.
February, July
Duration icon
Duration
Duration
Duration is approximate and based on a full-time study load. Part-time study is not available for international students.
4 year(s) full-time
Program code icon
Program code
HSCIE
Study as icon
Study as
Full-time
Fees
Indicative annual fees
Indicative annual fees
Published fees are for international students starting in 2026. Fees are based on the total number of units studied in this program on a full-time annual basis. Adelaide University also accepts applications for programs commencing after the advertised year. Tuition fees for these later years are likely to be higher.
$53,300
Prerequisites icon
Prerequisite
Prerequisite
A prerequisite is a required course or/subject that you must have successfully completed before you can enrol into this program.
None
Assumed knowledge icon
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge, while not essential, is where you have a minimum level of understanding in the relevant course area.
None
English Language Requirements icon
English language requirements
IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6 IELTS Listening 6 IELTS Speaking 6 IELTS Writing 6 Equivalent English qualifications
CRICOS code icon
CRICOS code
115753C
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Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

Secondary education (Year 12)

  • Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

  • Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

  • Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) in a higher education award program in an undergraduate diploma (AQF level 5) or higher.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

  • IELTS Overall 6.5
  • IELTS Reading 6
  • IELTS Listening 6
  • IELTS Speaking 6
  • IELTS Writing 6

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

Why Bachelor of Science (Honours)?

Explore the world of molecules and uncover the secrets of life at the smallest scale.

Biochemistry reveals the mechanisms that sustain every form of life. It bridges the gap between biology and chemistry, shedding light on the processes that keep living cells functioning and adapting.

A Bachelor of Science (Honours) majoring in Biochemistry immerses you in the foundations of health, disease and development at a molecular level. Investigate how essential molecules work together. Discover how cells generate and use energy. Explore how genes shape everything from physical characteristics to disease risk.

You’ll be equipped to pursue a rewarding future in biomedical science or biotechnology, contributing to groundbreaking research.

program overview

Overview

Studying a Bachelor of Science (Honours) opens the door to understanding the fundamental principles that shape our world. You major in Biochemistry will look at a molecular level of life – exploring the roles of proteins, DNA, RNA and other crucial molecules. Discover how cells generate energy and how genetics influence traits and disease risks.

Gain practical experience with extensive laboratory training and over 180 hours of hands-on lab work. You’ll master advanced techniques in molecular biology and biomedical science. You’ll learn from leading scientists and consider the ethical factors of modern scientific practices. In your third year, a professional placement or focused project will further develop your expertise.

Follow your passion for discovery and tackle real-world problems through scientific research. Your honours year will enhance your competitiveness in the job market and provide a strong foundation for advanced postgraduate studies. Be prepared to make meaningful contributions in fields like medicine, research, drug development, environmental science and biotechnology.

What you'll learn

Gain a comprehensive grounding in scientific methods and principles with Adelaide University’s Bachelor of Science (Honours) majoring in Biochemistry. In our four-year honours degree, you’ll engage with foundational science courses and broaden your understanding. Through hands-on and practical experiences, you’ll develop industry-ready skills applicable to a range of exciting careers. These include scientific data analysis, analytical problem-solving and evidence-based decision making. You can also personalise your studies by selecting electives from a wide range of science disciplines and the option to pursue two majors.

Your Biochemistry major will dive into the molecular underpinnings of life, where you’ll investigate how crucial molecules like proteins, DNA and RNA are formed and how they function. Explore the world of genes, molecules and cells, and examine the molecular origins of diseases like cancer, and their early development.

Practical laboratory work is a key component of this degree – you’ll complete 180 hours of lab-based practicals including an industry placement in your third year. Be equipped with the essential lab skills needed for a range of scientific careers including in fields such as medicine, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and genetic engineering. You’ll graduate with both the theoretical knowledge and practical expertise needed to address current challenges across multiple industries.

Your final honours year will consist of a focused Biological Sciences project and associated theoretical work. You’ll broaden your skill base and open the door to increased job opportunities. An honours year is also an important step for further postgraduate study.

Majors

The Bachelor of Science (Honours) is also available with majors in the following:

  • Animal Behaviour
  • Food Science and Technology
  • Marine and Wildlife Conservation
  • Microbiology and Immunology
  • Nuclear and Radiation Physics
  • Nuclear Chemistry
  • Plant Biology.

What courses you'll study

Complete 192 units comprising:

  • 42 to 54 units for Core courses, and
  • 78 to 144 units for Majors, and
  • At least 6 units from Work integrated learning, and
  • 0 to 48 units for Electives

Complete 42 to 54 units comprising:

  • 6 to 12 units for all Program core, and
  • 12 to 18 units from Common Core, and
  • 6 to 30 units from Science Core Selective

Course name Course code Units
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Course name
Science of People, Society and the Future Planet
Course code
SCIE1001
Units
6
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Course name
Data Skills for Scientists
Course code
STAT1000
Units
6

Course name Course code Units
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Course name
UG Common Core 1
Course code
AUXX1000
Units
6
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Course name
UG Common Core 2
Course code
AUXX2000
Units
6
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Course name
UG Common Core 3
Course code
AUXX3000
Units
6

Course name Course code Units
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Course name
Biology 1A: Molecules, Genes and Cells
Course code
BIOL1003
Units
6
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Course name
Biology 1B: Evolution and Diversity of Organisms
Course code
BIOL1004
Units
6
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Course name
Foundations in Chemistry
Course code
CHEM1000
Units
6
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Course name
Chemistry 1A
Course code
CHEM1002
Units
6
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Course name
Chemistry 1B
Course code
CHEM1003
Units
6
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Course name
Planet Earth
Course code
EART1000
Units
6
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Course name
Earth, Climate and Life Systems
Course code
EART1012
Units
6
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Course name
Foundations in Mathematics
Course code
MATH1000
Units
6
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Course name
Calculus 1
Course code
MATH1004
Units
6
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Course name
Calculus 2
Course code
MATH1005
Units
6
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Course name
Foundations in Physics
Course code
PHYS1000
Units
6
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Course name
Physics 1A
Course code
PHYS1001
Units
6
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Course name
Physics 1B
Course code
PHYS1002
Units
6

Notes

  • Program core - Students in the following Majors will not enrol in STAT1000 Data Skills for Scientists:

    Computational Physics, Experimental Physics, Nuclear and Radiation Physics, Space Science and Astrophysics, Theoretical Physics

Complete 54 units for ALL of the following:

Course name Course code Units
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Course name
Biology 1C: Molecular Biology and Biomedical Science
Course code
BIOL1031
Units
6
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Course name
Biochemistry 2 Metabolism
Course code
BIOL2015
Units
6
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Course name
Biochemistry 2: Molecular and Cell Biology
Course code
BIOL2017
Units
6
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Course name
Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Practical 2
Course code
BIOL2900
Units
6
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Course name
Biochemistry 3 Molecular and Structural Biology
Course code
BIOL3003
Units
6
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Course name
Biochemistry 3 Molecular Basis of Cancer
Course code
BIOL3005
Units
6
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Course name
Biochemistry 3: Practical
Course code
BIOL3011
Units
6
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Course name
Chemistry 1A
Course code
CHEM1002
Units
6
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Course name
Scientific Data: Analysis and Visualisation
Course code
SCIE2000
Units
6

Complete at least 6 units from the following:

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Advanced Applications in Animal Behaviour
Course code
ANIM3900
Units
12
course icon
Course name
Professional Skills in Animal Science (UoA)
Course code
ANIM3901
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Molecular and Biomedical Science Practical 2
Course code
BIOL2900
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Practical 3
Course code
BIOL3007
Units
6
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Course name
Microbiology and Immunology Practical 3
Course code
BIOL3012
Units
6
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Course name
Genetics Practical 3A
Course code
BIOL3900
Units
6
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Course name
Genetics Practical 3B
Course code
BIOL3901
Units
6
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Course name
Field Palaeontology 3
Course code
EART3002
Units
6
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Course name
Field Geoscience Program 3
Course code
EART3003
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Optics and Photonics 3
Course code
PHYS3004
Units
6
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Course name
Computational Physics
Course code
PHYSX300
Units
6
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Course name
Experimental Physics
Course code
PHYSX301
Units
6
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Course name
Science Professional Placement
Course code
SCIE3900
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Science Professional Project
Course code
SCIE3901
Units
6

Notes

  • If studying ANACHSCIE - Analytical Chemistry then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement

    If studying ANIBHSCIE - Animal Behaviour then complete ANIM3900 - Advanced Applications in Animal Behaviour

    If studying BIOCHSCIE - Biochemistry then complete BIOL3007 - Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Practical 3

    If studying CHEYHSCIE - Chemistry then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement

    If studying ECOLHSCIE - Ecology then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement

    If studying ENVGHSCIE - Environmental and Geospatial Science then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement

    If studyingENVSHSCIE - Environmental Science then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement

    If studying EVOLHSCIE - Evolutionary Biology then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement

    If studying EVOPHSCIE - Evolutionary Biology and Palaeontology the complete EART3002 - Field Palaeontology 3

    If studying EXPEHSCIE - Experimental Physics then completePHYSX301 - Experimental Physics

    If studying FOODHSCIE - Food Science and Technology then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement

    If studying GENEHSCIE - Genetics then complete BIOL2900 - Molecular and Biomedical Science Practical 2 and BIOL3900 - Genetics Practical 3A and BIOL3901 - Genetics Practical 3B and BIOL3007 - Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Practical 3

    If studyingGEOLHSCIE - Geology then complete EART3003 - Field Geoscience Program 3

    If studyingGEOEHSCIE - Geology and Earth Resources then complete EART3003 - Field Geoscience Program 3

    If studyingGEOPHSCIE - Geology and Palaeontology then complete EART3002 - Field Palaeontology 3

    If studyingGEOYHSCIE - Geophysics then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement

    If studyingMARWHSCIE - Marine and Wildlife Conservation then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement

    If studyingMEDBHSCIE - Medicinal and Biological Chemistry then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement

    If studyingMICRHSCIE - Microbiology and Immunology then complete BIOL2900 - Molecular and Biomedical Science Practical 2 and BIOL3007 - Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Practical 3 and BIOL3012 - Microbiology and Immunology Practical 3

    If studyingNUCCHSCIE - Nuclear Chemistry then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement

    If studyingNUCRHSCIE - Nuclear and Radiation Physics then complete PHYSX300 - Computational Physics or PHYSX301 - Experimental Physics

    If studyingPHYGHSCIE - Physics and Geophysics then complete PHYS3004 - Optics and Photonics 3 or PHYSX300 - Computational Physics

    If studyingPLABHSCIE - Plant Biology then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement

    If studyingPACHHSCIE - Pure and Applied Chemistry then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement

    If studyingSOILHSCIE - Soil Science then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement

    If studyingSPACHSCIE - Space Science and Astrophysics then complete PHYSX301 - Experimental Physics

    If studyingTHEOHSCIE - Theoretical Physics then complete PHYSX300 - Computational Physics or PHYSX301 - Experimental Physics

Complete 0 to 48 units comprising:

Complete 48 units for ALL of the following:

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Advanced Biological Sciences
Course code
BIOL4001
Units
12
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Course name
Honours Biological Sciences Project
Course code
BIOL4002
Units
36

Ready to apply?

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Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

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Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

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Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.

How to Apply

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026. 

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.  

Find an Education Agent 

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents. 

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.


Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university. 

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus. 

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

  • Academic learning support, spanning assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
  • Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities. 
  • Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
  • Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
  • Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
  • On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
  • Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, and academic policies and procedures.
  • An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
  • Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
  • Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
  • A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
  • A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission. 

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

  • February for Semester 1  
  • July for Semester 2. 

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view the Academic calendar. 

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources. 

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them. 

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more. 

Student services 

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including: 

  • Career advice and mentoring services 
  • Personal counselling 
  • LGBTQIA+ support 
  • Academic support 
  • Fees and finance help 
  • Security services 
  • Accommodation services 
  • Common rooms 
  • Prayer rooms. 

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more. 

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces. 

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week. 

 

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: 

  • Case studies  
  • Essays and assignments  
  • Examinations  
  • Group projects  
  • Internships and placements  
  • Practicals  
  • Presentations  
  • Reports and project documentations 
  • Research projects 
  • Workplace and classroom contributions. 
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