Course summary

Biological Sciences is a fascinating subject area and it’s related to our everyday existence. It studies life and living organisms including their structure, function, growth, origin, evolution, distribution and taxonomy. From the growth and division of simple bacteria through to the evolution, development, growth and adaptation of complex multi-cellular organisms, and the emerging role of genomics in personalised medicine and biodiversity in a changing world.

• This course has advanced accreditation by the Royal Society of Biology.

• You’ll have the opportunity to study core topics and consider contemporary issues in all major aspects of biology. Optional choices in each year of your course provide you with opportunities to specialise further in core areas of molecular and cellular biology, organismal biology, and ecology and environmental biology. Or alternatively, you can vary your choice of optional modules to keep your coverage of the biological sciences broad.

• The third year is your chance to step out of the classroom and into the real world. The research placement widens your horizons and lets you apply your knowledge to real-world projects. You’ll have a great opportunity to put your knowledge into action and pick up valuable skills that could help boost your employability.

• Your learning will be supported by doctoral-level academics with expertise or active research interests in diverse areas of biology and genetics, including cancer pharmacology, ancient and modern patterns of human migration, environmental and evolutionary microbiology, novel antimicrobials, and the molecular and cellular biology of human disease.

• You’ll also receive hands-on practical training in the field and in the laboratory using modern equipment, developing the skills and interests that help to prepare you for a research dissertation in the final year.

• As a student on this course you’ll be able to apply for undergraduate membership of the Biochemical Society and The Physiological Society (UK). You’ll also be eligible for student affiliate membership of the Royal Society of Biology and upon successful graduation be eligible to apply for one year associate membership, this can help open up networks at a crucial time when applying for jobs.