Biological Sciences - BSc(Hons)

Year one

You will study the following compulsory modules:

• Life on Earth
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Skills for the Biosciences
• Cell Biochemistry and Genetics

Year two

You will study the following compulsory module:

• Research Skills

Plus three of the following optional modules:

• Ecology and Ecosystem Protection
• Wildlife Ecology
• Human Health and Disease
• Physiological and Immunological Systems
• Molecular Biology
• Genes and Biotechnology
• Microbial Life

Between your second and third year, you will be able to opt to do a placement year comprising 40 weeks of vocational training with a suitable employer.

Final year

You will study the following compulsory modules:

• Research Experimental Project or Research Dissertation Project
• Scientific Frontiers and Enterprise

Plus optional modules from the list below, depending on credit requirements:

• Applied Biotechnology
• Science Communication
• Medical Genetics
• Genomic Technologies
• Gene Control
• Medical Microbiology
• Neuro-Pharmacology
• Human Nutrition
• Patho-Physiology
• Primate Ecology and Conservation
• Forests and Agricultural Systems
• Marine Ecosystems
• Environmental Forensics
• Tropical Expedition
• Professional Practice in Applied Science

This structure is for the full-time course delivery only. For part-time delivery, the same modules will be studied. However, the structure will differ.

The University continually enhances our offer by responding to feedback from our students and other stakeholders, ensuring the curriculum is kept up to date and our graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need for the real world. This may result in changes to the course. If changes to your course are approved, we will inform you.

The course structure will allow you to adapt your studies to your own interests. From Year two, you will choose to specialise by selecting modules falling into one of three themes: molecular biology, human biology or ecology. Alternatively, you will be able to select modules from all three themes.

In Year three, you will be able to continue to pursue these themes or select modules from all three. We have a student-centred approach to learning; there will be opportunities for one-to-one guidance and you will receive individual feedback.

Guided independent learning is encouraged on the course and a framework will be provided to you through lectures, seminars and tutorials. Practical classes will form a very important role in supporting your learning, with both laboratory and computer-based sessions.

You will learn from experts with research specialisms ranging from the use of bioluminescent bacteria in cancer therapy, microbial fuel cells and molecular techniques to combat a disease that threatens our supplies of chocolate.

Your practical learning will culminate in an independent research project during your final year, which will be undertaken with a project supervisor and may be carried out alongside their research team.

For more details, see our full glossary of learning and teaching terms.

The range of assessment tools includes both traditional approaches, such as essays and reports, and group tasks and presentations. You will work closely with students in your group and will be supported by student advisers and a year tutor. Overall, assessment will take place through both coursework and examinations.

For more details, see our full glossary of assessment terms.