Biology, BSc (Hons)

Course summary

Are you passionate about life on our planet, and issues such as human and animal health and sustainability?Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, our course aims to inspire you through the study of animals (including humans), plants and microbes. Study topics in genetics, cell biology, physiology, evolution, and conservation. Learn how to apply this knowledge to detect and treat diseases, protect endangered species, or create transformative biotechnology.A range of optional modules taught by leaders in their field will allow you to tailor the course to your interests and career plans. It is also possible to switch to an integrated four-year master's course (MSci), depending on your grades in the second year. You will gain experience in a range of laboratory and field work techniques from your first semester. You will develop key skills in purpose-built teaching laboratories, with practical activities such as:

• Neuroscience: how neurotransmitters interact with muscle cells

• Immunology: immune cells and phagocytosis

• Development: gene expression and mutation

• Optional field trips to local nature reserves and international field centres

In year three you will do a year-long research project guided by a member of academic staff, where we will train you in transferable and advanced research skills.

Modules

There are a range of optional modules to choose from in every year of the course. You'll study these alongside core modules.In your first year, you'll study the biology of animals, plants and microbes and the biochemical, evolutionary and genetic processes that underlie their biology. The experimental approach forms a key component to the year, with modules teaching practical skills and the principles of experimental design and analysis.In your second year, a major theme is health and disease in humans, other animals and plants. You'll learn about the genetic and developmental basis of disease, the fundamental biology of pathogens and parasites, and what happens when the nervous system doesn’t work properly. In your third year you'll work on a year-long research project, alongside studying optional modules. This major practical project that allows you to undertake your own biological investigation. In addition, there are wide-ranging optional modules. The research project is a biological investigation to suit your personal interests and aspirations, taken under the guidance of our expert academics.If you choose to study the integrated masters (MSci), you’ll complete a year-long research project in your fourth year. This could be lab- or literature-based. For the most up-to-date module information and full details, please visit the course page on our website.

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There are a range of optional modules to choose from in every year of the course. You'll study these alongside core modules. In your first year, you'll study the biology of animals, plants and microbes and the biochemical, evolutionary and genetic processes that underlie their biology. The experimental approach forms a key component to the year, with modules teaching practical skills and the principles of experimental design and analysis. In your second year, a major theme is health and disease in humans, other animals and plants. You'll learn about the genetic and developmental basis of disease, the fundamental biology of pathogens and parasites, and what happens when the nervous system doesn’t work properly. In your third year you'll work on a year-long research project, alongside studying optional modules. This major practical project that allows you to undertake your own biological investigation. In addition, there are wide-ranging optional modules. The research project is a biological investigation to suit your personal interests and aspirations, taken under the guidance of our expert academics. If you choose to study the integrated masters (MSci), you’ll complete a year-long research project in your fourth year. This could be lab- or literature-based. For the most up-to-date module information and full details, please visit the course page on our website.