BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences

This career-focused degree has specialist pathways in cell and molecular biology, human health, and microbiology, or an option to remain on a broad, interdisciplinary biological sciences programme. This offers the flexibility to decide which degree and pathway best suits your career ambitions and switch within the first two years should your interests change.

The undergraduate programme explores the fundamentals of modern environmental, plant, animal, and cell biology. You’ll experience a multidisciplinary teaching and learning approach, integrating concepts from biology, chemistry, and mathematics to help you develop a holistic understanding of living systems. You will gain a broad and balanced foundation of biological knowledge and practical skills and apply this to create solutions for theoretical and practical problems in biology. Throughout your studies, you’ll choose optional courses which best align with your biological interests, before choosing your specialist pathway in your third year.

You’ll learn the principles in all the main areas of biological sciences, including:

• Ecology
• Zoology
• Plant Science
• Microbiology
• Biochemistry
• Molecular biology

Biology has a significant impact on our daily lives. By studying biological sciences, you will gain an understanding of the complexities of biology, be able to apply your knowledge to other related disciplines, and address challenges such as:

• Climate change
• Biodiversity loss
• Emerging diseases
• Food science development
• Sustainable resource management

You’ll develop your critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving skills. You’ll learn about scientific concepts, evaluate research findings, and present innovative solutions to complex biological problems using a range of media. You’ll work independently and collaboratively, and engage in group projects, scientific discussions, and research initiatives.

Hands-on laboratory work and practical field research is prominent throughout the degree, and you’ll have access to our state-of-the-art labs where you can put theoretical knowledge into practice. This will help you gain valuable skills in interpreting and analysing scientific data. Fieldwork also provides an opportunity for you to engage with real-world ecosystems.

As well as building your skills in biological sciences, you’ll develop sought after soft skills, such as problem-solving, communication, and practical presentation skills. You’ll also understand the vital role of a biologist across a range of professional fields including research and development, quality assurance, environmental monitoring, and public health.

This industry-focused degree will ensure you have the understanding, knowledge, skills, and personal qualities required to undertake a wide range of careers within the scientific or other employment sectors.