Applied and Human Biology
Bachelor's degree
In Birmingham
Description
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Type
Bachelor's degree
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Location
Birmingham
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Duration
3 Years
There are currently four biology programmes available at Aston University These modern degree programmes are specifically designed to promote an awareness of the application of biological knowledge to human health and welfare and to equip students with the skills necessary to succeed in a continually changing dynamic subject.
Facilities
Location
Start date
Start date
About this course
Specific subject requirements: A level: Biological subject at A level grade C or above. Chemistry at A/AS level welcomed but not essential.
GCSE: English and Maths grade C.
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Course programme
Subject guide & modules
Biology students take twelve modules per year. Each module comprises approximately 100 learning hours which include lectures, tutorials, practical classes, directed student-centred learning and preparation for coursework assignments and examinations.
In the final year you will choose five modules to study in depth. The particular combination of modules chosen will determine whether you are awarded a degree in Human Biology, Infection and Immunity, Cell and Molecular Biology or Applied and Human Biology. The second term is devoted to a research project which is supervised by an individual member of the academic staff.
Learning, teaching & assessment
We use a range of assessment methods, although the typical methods are coursework and an end of year examination. Exams generally take the form of unseen essay,short answer and multiple choice questions. Coursework assessments take many forms and could include essays, reports of individual and group practical assignments, oral presentations and laboratory reports. We specifically encourage team working in some assignments in which there will be peer assessments where you will assess the contribution of your colleagues and vice-versa.
Placement year
The year involves a twelve-month professional work placement between the second and final years of the degree. This offers students the opportunity to gain valuable experience and set their studies in the context of a working environment alongside professional biologists.
Our recent placements have been with:
- Research institutes
- Breweries
- The food industry
- Pharmaceutical companies (e.g. AstraZeneca and GlaxoSmithKline)
- Clinical trials
- Medical sales
- Biotechnology companies
- National Health Service laboratories.
Please note that students who enter placements in the NHS may be required to pay for CRB checks and occupational health checks.
Career prospects
Graduate employment for Biology students mirrors the success of Aston University as a whole. 30-40% of our graduates go into research, while others enter a wide range of careers in health, welfare and the biological industries. In addition to scientific positions, some graduates take on general management, product development or marketing roles.
Applied and Human Biology