Biochemical Engineering

The BSc Biochemical Engineering programme at University College London offers students an innovative and comprehensive education that combines principles of biology, chemistry, and engineering to address modern challenges in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and sustainable manufacturing. Designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, the course prepares graduates for careers in the biotech, pharmaceutical, food, and environmental sectors. Throughout the programme, students explore core topics such as biochemical processes, microbiology, process engineering, materials science, and systems biology. Emphasis is placed on hands-on laboratory work, engineering design projects, and collaborative research activities to foster problem-solving abilities and real-world application of concepts. The curriculum includes modules on enzyme technology, bioreactor operation, downstream processing, and bioprocess control, providing a solid foundation in the scalable production of biochemicals and bio-products. Students also gain valuable insights into innovation and entrepreneurship within the biotech industry. The programme benefits from UCL’s world-class research facilities, highly experienced faculty, and strong links to industry partners, ensuring students are well-prepared for entering the workforce or pursuing further postgraduate study. Graduates of the programme will possess an understanding of the scientific principles underpinning bioprocesses, alongside practical engineering skills necessary for designing and optimizing biotechnological processes. With opportunities for internships and industrial placements, students can develop professional networks and gain practical experience that enhances their employability. Upon completion, graduates are equipped to contribute to advancements in healthcare, sustainable production, and environmental management, fulfilling the increasing global demand for innovative biotechnological solutions. The programme promotes interdisciplinary learning, critical thinking, and a commitment to sustainable development, positioning students at the forefront of the rapidly evolving field of biochemical engineering.

Our MSc programme focuses on the core biochemical engineering principles that enable the translation of advances in the life sciences into real processes or products. Students will develop advanced engineering skills (such as bioprocess design, bioreactor engineering, downstream processing), state-of-the-art life science techniques (such as molecular biology, vaccine development, microfluidics) and essential business and regulatory knowledge (such as management, quality control, commercialisation).

Three distinct pathways are offered tailored for graduate scientists, engineers, or biochemical engineers.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme offers three different pathways (for graduate scientists, engineers, or biochemical engineers) and consists of core taught modules (120 credits) and a research or design project (60 credits).

Core modules for graduate scientists

• Advanced Bioreactor Engineering
• Dissertation on Bioprocess Research
• Fundamental Biosciences
• Integrated Downstream Processing
• Sustainable Industrial Bioprocesses and Biorefineries

Students can chose two options

Core modules for graduate engineers

• Bioprocess Management – Discovery to Manufacture
• Bioprocess Microfluidics
• Bioprocess Systems Engineering
• Bioprocess Validation and Quality Control
• Commercialisation and Bioprocess Research
• Vaccine Bioprocess Development

Students can choose one option

Core Modules for Biochemical Engineering Graduates

Sustainable Industrial Bioprocesses and Biorefineries 

Bioprocess Systems Engineering 

Cell Therapy Biology, Bioprocessing and Clinical Translation 

Industrial Synthetic Biology 

Bioprocess Validation and Quality Control 

Bioprocess Research Project 

Students can choose three options

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, and individual and group activities. Guest lectures delivered by industrialists provide a professional and social context. Assessment is through unseen written examinations, coursework, individual and group project reports, individual and group oral presentations, and the research or design project.

Normal entry requirements are at least a second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university or the equivalent from an approved overseas institution. Candidates offering recent industrial experience are also encouraged to apply. As with any engineering discipline numeracy skills are important for the quantitative description of biological and physical phenomena. Evidence of numerical ability is requested as either an A level in Mathematics (or in exceptional cases, in Physics) or some mathematics studied at university. The department provides mathematics tutoring for Master's students throughout the year adjusted to a candidate's ability.

The Biochemical Engineering undergraduate programme at University College London offers a range of financing options for prospective students. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's domicile; for home students, fees are set according to the current UK government guidelines, while international students are subject to higher fees. UCL provides detailed information on tuition fees annually, which can be found on their official website. In addition to tuition fees, students should consider the cost of living in London, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal expenses. UCL estimates that living costs for students are approximately £12,000 to £15,000 per year.

Financial support is available through various channels. UCL offers scholarships and bursaries for both UK and international students based on academic excellence, financial need, or specific criteria such as country of origin or intended field of study. For UK students, federal and government-funded financial aid options such as Student Loans are accessible, providing low-interest loans that can cover tuition fees and maintenance costs. International students are encouraged to seek external funding from their home countries, as well as scholarships offered by UCL in partnership with various organizations.

The university also provides information and guidance on applying for part-time work, which can help students manage their expenses more effectively. UCL's Careers Service supports students in finding part-time employment opportunities both on-campus and in the wider London area. Additionally, students are advised to explore external funding opportunities such as private scholarships, foundations, and government grants in their home countries.

UCL's financial aid programs are designed to ensure that capable students from diverse backgrounds can access quality education without undue financial hardship. Applicants are encouraged to review the specific eligibility criteria and application procedures for each support option early in their application process. Overall, financing a degree in Biochemical Engineering at UCL involves a combination of tuition fees, living expenses, and potential financial aid, with numerous resources available to assist students in planning and securing funding for their studies.

The BSc Biochemical Engineering programme at University College London offers students an in-depth understanding of the principles and practices involved in the development and production of biochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnological products. The course is designed to combine foundational knowledge of chemical engineering with specialized training in biotechnology and bioprocessing. Students explore core topics such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and mass transfer, alongside modules focusing on biochemistry, microbiology, and molecular biology. The programme emphasizes practical laboratory work, allowing students to develop essential skills in experimental techniques, process design, and optimisation.

Throughout the course, students learn about the design and operation of bioprocessing facilities, including fermentation, downstream processing, and bioreactor engineering. The curriculum integrates industry-relevant topics such as bioseparations, biomanufacturing, and quality control, preparing graduates for careers in sectors like pharmaceuticals, environmental biotechnology, and food industries. UCL promotes a multidisciplinary approach, encouraging students to collaborate across fields such as chemical engineering, biology, and medicine.

The programme includes opportunities for industrial placements, field trips, and research projects, fostering real-world experience and networking within the biotech industry. The duration of the undergraduate degree is typically three years, with options for part-time study or sandwich placements available. Graduates of the programme are equipped with analytical, technical, and managerial skills, enabling them to contribute to innovations in bioprocess development, regulatory compliance, and sustainability efforts. Overall, the BSc Biochemical Engineering at UCL provides a rigorous, comprehensive education preparing students for diverse professional pathways in biotechnology and related sectors.