Plant Biology

Programme Structure & Content

First Year
A general introduction to whole-plant biology, plant cell and molecular biology, and ecology in core biology courses. Courses in Introductory Chemistry and Soils are also studied. An additional popular option comes from the disciplines of Geography, Geology, Chemistry, or Computing Science. Other options are possible. Plant biologists go on a Plant Ecology and Taxonomy field course.

Second Year
An overview of the diversity of greenplants and fungi, their interactions with the environment, and their importance to humans. Students have a wide choice of related courses in, for example, Zoology, Genetics, Evolution, Ecology, Conservation Biology or Geography. There is a field course in France (which can alternatively be taken in third year).

Third Year
Courses cover Plant-Environment Interactions, Plant Ecology, Plant Breeding & Biotechnology, Plant Biogeography & Conservation and Plant-Animal Interactions. There is a strong element of practical laboratory training and fieldwork as well as visits to research institutes, conservation and environmental protection agencies and commercial organisations. A core skills course teaches transferable skills.

Fourth Year (Honours)
A research project is an important part of the final year. Students can join established research groups, or follow their own interests, either in the field or in the laboratory. Taught courses develop knowledge of particular areas, alongside tutorials on recent advances and assignments on topical matters such as GM crops, climate change and pollution.

Teaching & Assessment

Teaching methods include lectures, laboratory practicals, fieldwork, seminars and tutorials. Most courses are assessed by both continuous assessment and a written examination.