BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences with Foundation Year

A Biological Sciences degree will provide a valuable qualification in an attractive, stimulating and widely recognised subject area with good job prospects. The vocational nature of the course, together with effective literacy and numeracy skills, ensures that you will be well equipped with the attributes necessary to enable you to pursue a career of your choosing.

A degree in Biological Sciences opens a variety of career opportunities. Your knowledge of biological systems, attainment of transferable skills and technical competence enable you consider a range of career paths. Science related employment in technology based companies, whether multinational or smaller enterprises in biotechnology, agricultural, pharmaceutical and government agencies are all potential avenues. Food manufacturing and water companies require employees to undertake varied responsibilities such as quality assurance and the development and production of new products.

Having been enthused by the Honours project, students often pursue post graduate qualifications on MSc courses such as MSc Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology the proposed new Master in Biology due to begin in 2015, or research based PhD programmes.
The broad scope of the course accommodates non-scientific careers and consequently teaching, retail, marketing and management are all realistic options.

32 UCAS Points
EE from A Levels
BTEC QCF Extended Diploma grade PPP or BTEC QCF Diploma grade PP
Other Requirements

Students must have studied a minimum of two years post GCSE level. However, it is expected that some applicants will be mature students with work experience, who wish to further their career development. These applicants will be processed through standard procedures, which may involve an interview as part of the process.

Royal Society of Biology
"Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for the purpose of meeting, in part, the academic and experience requirement of membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol)."

Year 1 - Provides you with a foundation in the biology of micro-organisms, plants and animals. Studies combine to explain the genetic, molecular and chemical basis of life. Key numeric, written, laboratory, IT and study skills are an important feature, to facilitate effective study throughout the coming years.

Year 2 - Expands on the fundamentals of year one to more deeply explore the genetic control, molecular activities and cellular organisation in microorganisms, plants and animals. Options allow development of interest in, for example, microbiology, biotechnology, conservation, animal behaviour and human evolution. Dedicated practical modules provide the opportunity to explore theory and practice whilst preparing you for your specialist Honours research project.

The Sandwich year is an optional yet highly recommended opportunity to experience a working environment. The sandwich placement provide students with invaluable vocational experience in a relevant industrial or research environment, which is supported by a University supervisor throughout.


Year 3 - Explores advanced topics and issues depending upon the options of choice. These include animal biology and behaviour, food microbiology, plant biotechnology, and the ethical and social implications of biological exploitation. You also undertake an extensive Honours research project of your choice within your preferred specialism.