What is it Like? Biochemistry is the chemistry of life. It is an exciting, dynamic industry that is changing rapidly. When you study the Bachelor of Science (Biochemistry) at Massey, you will learn about the chemical components, chemical reactions and physiological processes that occur in the living systems essential for life. Full breadth of biochemistry Develop skills in both traditional and modern biological disciplines, including the tools of bioinformatics and biotechnology essential for research. You’ll study all kingdoms and gain knowledge relevant to genetics, microbiology, animal and plant physiology, biotechnology, ecology, as well as the medical, agricultural, and veterinary sciences. You can also take courses in chemistry and physiology to gain added skills of value to your future employers. Multi-disciplinary knowledge Biochemistry overlaps with or underpins other disciplines including cell biology, exercise and sport science, genetics, immunology, microbiology, nutrition, pharmacology and physiology. This means that when you study biochemistry you will also gain knowledge relevant to genetics, microbiology, animal and plant physiology, biotechnology, ecology, as well as the medical, agricultural, and veterinary sciences. Biochemistry can help us to understand adaptation to environmental change and is central to tackling human and animal diseases. Some of the topics taught in biochemistry courses include: Cell signalling Chromatin structure and function DNA technology Enzymology Introductory bioinformatics Metabolic biochemistry Molecular immunology Nucleic acid biochemistry Protein structure and function Regulation of gene expression Sought-after by employers As a graduate you will have developed a sound working knowledge of the fundamental aspects of the discipline. You will also develop skills in written and oral communication, and we will help you develop an analytical approach to problem-solving. Careers As a graduate in biochemistry you will have a wide range of career opportunities. These include pure and applied research, quality control, product development, and work in medical, forensic, and analytical laboratories. You could also work in information services such as libraries and scientific publishing organisations. Biochemistry graduates also have jobs in sales and marketing, especially of scientific equipment, chemicals, and reagents for biological research and drugs. Jobs in these areas can lead to high-level careers in management and administration in science and health-related fields. Potential employers include: Crown Research Institutes (AgResearch, HortResearch, Plant and Food Research) Industry-based research institutes (Dairy, Meat, Wool, Wheat, Forestry, and Leather) Wineries, breweries, food and animal feedstuff industries Pharmaceutical manufacturing and scientific supply companies Secondary and tertiary educational institutions Biotechnology companies Scientific publishers District health Boards Banks and finance companies For those students who continue their studies to a higher degree (BSc(Hons), MSc, and PhD) there are careers in scientific research, tertiary teaching and higher level management. A degree in biochemistry provides graduates with internationally-marketable skills. Many of our graduates spend a period of time outside New Zealand, either working or furthering their studies. Note: July start will take 3.5 years to complete