Biochemistry – Undergraduate Programme Overview
Biochemistry as an undergraduate programme is a scientific discipline that focuses on the study of the chemical processes and substances that occur in living organisms. It equips students with a strong foundation in biology and chemistry while developing their skills in laboratory techniques, critical thinking, and problem-solving. The programme typically spans four years and leads to the award of a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Biochemistry.
Students of Biochemistry explore areas such as molecular biology, enzymology, genetics, metabolism, bioenergetics, and structural biology. The goal is to understand how biological molecules interact and how these interactions underpin health, disease, and various life processes.
Importance Across All Fields and Sectors
Biochemistry is a foundational science with applications that cut across numerous sectors:
Health and Medicine: Understanding diseases at the molecular level, developing new drugs, vaccines, and diagnostic tools.
Pharmaceutical Industry: Biochemists are central to drug discovery, testing, and regulation.
Agriculture and Food Science: Involved in developing high-yield and pest-resistant crops, nutritional enhancements, and food safety.
Environmental Science: Plays a role in pollution control, waste management, and renewable energy (such as biofuels).
Forensics and Security: Used in DNA analysis, toxicology, and crime scene investigation.
Biotechnology and Industry: Supports production processes involving enzymes, fermentation, and synthetic biology for consumer products.
Academia and Research: Provides a pathway to advanced scientific research and academic teaching careers.
The broad application of biochemistry makes it relevant to virtually every aspect of modern life and human development, from personal health to global sustainability.
Admission Requirements for Biochemistry
1. National Requirements (UTME and SSCE)
O’Level Requirements (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB)
Candidates must obtain at least five (5) credit passes in the following subjects:
English Language
Mathematics
Chemistry
Biology
Physics
Credits must be obtained at not more than two sittings.
UTME Subjects
Candidates must sit for and pass the following:
Biology
Chemistry
Physics or Mathematics
Minimum UTME Score
Most universities require a minimum score of 180–200.
Highly competitive institutions may require 220 or above.
JAMB Subject Combination
Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics.
2. Direct Entry (DE) Requirements
Candidates applying through Direct Entry into 200 Level must have one of the following:
At least two A-Level passes in Chemistry and Biology/Zoology/Physics.
ND/NCE with merit or upper credit in related fields such as Science Laboratory Technology or Biochemistry.
JUPEB/IJMB with relevant subject passes.
3. University or Faculty-Specific Requirements
Some universities may conduct Post-UTME screening or interviews.
A strong science background is required.
Certain institutions may accept Agricultural Science in place of Biology or include Further Mathematics as an acceptable credit.