Biological Sciences (with Foundation Year) - MSci

The course structure will allow you to adapt your studies to your own interests. From Year two, you will have the opportunity 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, the same principle will apply.

Foundation year (Year zero)

You will study the following compulsory modules:

• Biology in Practice
• Chemistry in Practice
• Skills for Science
• People and Science

Year one

You will study the following compulsory modules:

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

Year two

You will study the following compulsory module:

• Research Skills

Plus three of the following optional modules:

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

Year three

You will study the following compulsory modules:

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

Plus selections of the following optional modules, according to credit requirements:

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

Final year

You will study the following compulsory modules:

• Research in Practice
• Research with Impact
• Contemporary Biology

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.

We have a student-centred approach to learning: there are opportunities for one-to-one guidance and you will receive individual feedback.

Guided independent learning is encouraged and a framework is provided through lectures, seminars and tutorials. Practical classes are very important in supporting 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 threatening our supplies of chocolate.

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

The final year will focus on research and the research process, allowing you to undertake an extended research project, further developing your practical skills and understanding the significance of research with impact. You will have further opportunities to study advanced contemporary aspects of the biological sciences.

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.