Find the best UK universities for Biochemistry in 2026. Our rankings highlight research excellence, teaching quality, and student experience to guide your choice.
Best Universities for Biochemistry: Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of Oxford | 96 | 75 |
| 2 Silver | University of Cambridge | 95 | 70 |
| 3 Bronze | University of Manchester | 90 | 68 |
| 4 | University of Leeds | 89 | 72 |
| 5 | University of Edinburgh | 88 | 75 |
| 6 | University of Glasgow | 87 | 81 |
| 7 | University of Nottingham | 86 | 74 |
| 8 | University of Sheffield | 85 | 81 |
| 9 | University of Bristol | 84 | 85 |
| 10 | Durham University | 83 | 68 |
1. University of Oxford Gold
2. University of Cambridge Silver
3. University of Manchester Bronze
4. University of Leeds
5. University of Edinburgh
6. University of Glasgow
7. University of Nottingham
8. University of Sheffield
9. University of Bristol
10. Durham University
How We Ranked These Universities
Our Biochemistry rankings combine trusted academic data with student lifestyle factors to reflect what really matters to students.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Cost of living, nightlife, cost of a pint and Uber, crime rate, student satisfaction
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher’s student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Top-Ranked Biochemistry Universities Explained
University of Oxford
World-leading research, rigorous academics, and exceptional graduate employability.
University of Cambridge
Strong lab facilities, interdisciplinary study options, and top academic reputation.
University of Manchester
Outstanding student support, practical skills training, and active research environment.
University of Glasgow
Affordable city with a great balance of study and social life, plus high student satisfaction.
University of Edinburgh
Cutting-edge research projects and well-rounded academic programs.
University of Leeds
Excellent teaching quality with strong links to the biotech industry.
University of Sheffield
Robust course content with great campus facilities and student wellbeing services.
University of Nottingham
Modern labs, supportive staff, and a welcoming student community.
University of Bristol
High graduate outcomes and research-led teaching.
University of Southampton
Strong emphasis on practical skills and industry connections.
Career Prospects After a Biochemistry Degree
Biochemistry graduates work in pharmaceuticals, research, healthcare, and biotech sectors. For wider options, check out our Biotechnology and Medicine rankings.
Biochemistry Course Requirements & Entry Standards
Typical UCAS points range from 120 to 160, often requiring strong science A-levels including Chemistry and Biology. Visit our entry requirements guide for more tips.
Cheapest Cities to Study Biochemistry in the UK
Cities like Glasgow, Sheffield, and Newcastle offer affordable living alongside excellent universities.
Best Biochemistry Unis for Nightlife & Social Life
Manchester, Leeds, and Edinburgh stand out for vibrant student social scenes and nightlife.
Student Wellbeing, Mental Health & Study Support
Look for universities with strong NSS satisfaction scores in wellbeing, such as Glasgow, Sheffield, and Nottingham.
Not Sure About Biochemistry? Consider These Alternatives
Consider Biology, Biotechnology, or Chemistry as related fields.
Summary: Which Biochemistry Uni is Right for You?
Balance research strength, teaching quality, social life, and cost of living when comparing universities. Bookmark your favourites and use our rankings to help make your decision easier.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Biochemistry
Top UK universities for Biochemistry include University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, and Imperial College London. Check our 2026 rankings for the latest on student satisfaction and research quality.
University of Cambridge often leads for Biochemistry, with outstanding teaching, research facilities, and graduate outcomes.
Biochemistry degrees offer strong career prospects in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, research, and biotech. The skills gained are highly valued across sectors.
The UK is a top choice for Biochemistry with world-class universities. The USA, Germany, and Canada also offer excellent programs depending on your goals.
Biochemistry courses typically require A-levels in Chemistry and Biology, often alongside Maths. Always check university entry requirements before applying.
Biochemistry graduates work in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, forensic science, research labs, and environmental science, among others.
Demand is strong, especially in research, healthcare, and biotech industries. Graduates with lab skills and data analysis expertise are highly sought after.
Starting salaries for Biochemistry graduates typically range from £22,000 to £28,000, with growth potential in research and healthcare roles.
Biochemistry can be challenging due to its mix of biology, chemistry, and practical lab work. Theoretical and research-heavy courses tend to require more commitment.
Graduates commonly work in pharmaceuticals, clinical labs, universities, government research, and environmental agencies.
Yes, Biochemistry is well respected in scientific and healthcare fields and valued for its rigorous training and broad applications.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked