Biology
Biology at Heriot-Watt University addresses issues of key importance in the modern world with emphasis placed on the applied aspects of each area, so that knowledge gained may be used to benefit society. Our biology graduates have a strong record of employment in fields ranging from marine biology to pharmaceuticals, medical, water, the food industry and public sector organisations.
Studying biology at Heriot-Watt provides a thorough grounding in cell and molecular biology, microbiology, marine and environmental biology, toxicology and biotechnology. Emphasis is placed on the applied aspects of each discipline, so that knowledge may be used for the benefit of society.
The suite of biology degrees sits within the Institute of Life and Earth Sciences at Heriot-Watt University. We offer five degrees within the biology subject area, each allowing students to gain a firm foundation before specialising into their preferred field. Each degree comprises one or more key compulsory courses with a choice of optional courses that allows it to be fashioned to an individual student’s interests, within the constraints of the programme of study.
Our degrees share courses at Level 1 while in later levels they comprise a mixture of compulsory and optional courses that reflect the specialist subject. Transfer between degrees is flexible during Levels 1 and 2, and possible in some cases during Levels 3 and 4.
Courses
Student experience
After Level 2, our classes tend to be smaller, informal and yet academically demanding. Traditional lectures, informal tutorials, laboratory classes, project work and field courses are included within the curriculum. We also provide support and advice through our academic tutoring system and opportunities to develop the interpersonal skills which are important in establishing future career aspirations.
360 Virtual Tours
View a 360 tour of our Biology Teaching Lab and John Muir Aquarium.
Teaching and assessment
Learning methods include:
- lectures and tutorials
- computer and project-based learning
- laboratory-based teaching
- fieldwork and site visits
- presentations by visitors from industry
Assessment is mixed and varies from subject to subject; most are assessed by a combination of coursework and examination.