MPhil Biochemistry: The University of Manchester

Course description

The MPhil is a one-year research degree where students get the opportunity to study a specific research project. The MPhil degree can act as a stand-alone degree for applicants who would like to gain experience in a specific area, or can be linked to a PhD programme.

Biochemistry aims to explore and understand every aspect of the structure and function of living things. A biochemical approach forms the basis for understanding the function and properties of molecules, cells, tissues and whole organisms, under normal and abnormal conditions and in response to their changing environment. Examples include:

• Cell Membrane and Cell Wall Structure and Function
• Intracellular Trafficking of Proteins & Organelles
• Regulation of Metabolism in Health & Disease
• Protein Structural Analysis & Relationship to Protein Function
• Transcriptional & Post-transcriptional Regulation in Prokaryotic & Eukaryotic Cells
• Cellular Recognition & Interactions
• Protein Secretion & Post-translational Processing
• Molecular Analysis of Cellular Stress Responses
• Signal Transduction & Intracellular Signalling Mechanisms
• Macromolecular Assemblies & Cell Function

Career opportunities

The majority of our MPhil students choose to study for a subsequent 2 or 3 years to gain a PhD qualification. Other students use the skills they have acquired to move into related areas such as education, information technology, consultancy and management, helped by the comprehensive skills training they gain during their programme of study.

Entry requirements

Academic entry qualification overview: The standard entry requirement for MPhil study is a First or Upper Second class honours degree, or the overseas equivalent, in a relevant subject. In certain circumstances, a Lower Second class honours degree supplemented by appropriate relevant experience, may be acceptable.

English language: For MPhil applicants whose first language is not English an IELTS score of 6.5, TOEFL 577 (paper based), TOEFL 233 (computer based) or TOEFL 90 (internet based) is required as a minimum.