Faculty of Science Biochemistry

Offered As:	Major	Minor
URL:	https://webapp.science.hku.hk/sr4/servlet/enquiry?Type=Major&Code=MajorInBiochemistry&AdmissionYear=2026	https://webapp.science.hku.hk/sr4/servlet/enquiry?Type=Minor&Code=MinorInBiochemistry&AdmissionYear=2026
*Open to students of other Faculties:	Yes	Yes
Selection process required:	No	No
Credits:	96	36
What is it about?	The Major in Biochemistry aims to provide students with both basic and advanced knowledge in contemporary biochemistry and molecular biology. Core courses in the curriculum emphasize equipping students with a general understanding of the fundamental ideas, principles and theories of biochemistry with particular focus on the relevance of biochemistry, molecular biology and genomics to biology, human health and disease. Elective courses extend this core knowledge to provide students with specialised insight into both basic and applied scientific endeavour in biochemistry, bioinformatics, molecular biology and molecular genetics. The Minor in Biochemistry is designed to provide students from all backgrounds with a multidisciplinary perspective on contemporary biochemistry and molecular biology. This minor curriculum incorporates significant flexibility to allow students to select courses that will complement the individual student's Major.
Offering Faculty/ Department/ School/Institute	School of Biomedical Sciences

Pre-requisite requirements and/or other conditions for declaring the major/minor	Major: Students must have level 3 or above in HKDSE Chemistry or equivalent to take this major. Students who do not fulfill this requirement are advised to take CHEM1041 Foundations of chemistry. Please refer to the course prerequisites of the required courses. Minor: Please refer to the course prerequisites of the required courses. For details, please check with the School of Biomedical Sciences.
Career opportunities	Throughout the curriculum there is an emphasis on experiential learning through laboratory practicals, problem-solving exercises, group-based learning, industrial experience, overseas exchange and research-based projects. These experiences are designed to develop students' ability to read and interpret scientific data, to integrate knowledge with wider scientific theory, and to improve logical thinking and communication skills. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive degree-level biochemistry education that equips students with the critical thinking, communication and analytical skills essential for them to play a leading role in society in the future. For details, please check with Faculty or CEDARS (Careers & Placement).
Further information	Major: https://webapp.science.hku.hk/sr4/servlet/enquiry?Type=Major&Code=MajorInBiochemistry&AdmissionYear=2026 Minor: https://webapp.science.hku.hk/sr4/servlet/enquiry?Type=Minor&Code=MinorInBiochemistry&AdmissionYear=2026
Contact	E: sbms@hku.hk T: 3917 9259

* Note: Students pursuing curricula with major / minor programme(s) must complete at least one major programme from their home Faculties upon graduation. Disclaimer: The information is provided by the Faculties/Schools as of August 2026 and is subject to change by respective units. Students are advised to consult their Faculty/School Office(s) in case of doubt.