Biology, BSc (Hons), with study abroad

Biology is a broad and captivating field focused on the scientific study of living organisms, from bacteria to large mammals. This four-year degree at Swansea University equips students with essential knowledge and skills for diverse career paths, including a third year at a partner institution abroad. Our location near varied environments, combined with advanced facilities like a £1.3m Visualisation Centre, a £1.6m survey vessel, and a £4.2m science laboratory, allows for tailored learning through local, residential, and international field courses. The course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology and covers topics such as animal and marine conservation, microbiology, and climate impacts. All programs offer options for a Year in Industry or Abroad, boosting confidence, communication skills, and employability.In the first year, students explore animal diversity, cellular biology, ecology, and core skills. The second year delves into physiology, parasitology, and field ecology, followed by a year abroad for cultural immersion. The final year includes modules on biodiversity, epidemiology, and professional skills. Assessment involves lectures, seminars, practical classes, examinations, coursework, and a research project. We guarantee conditional offers, subject to requirements—visit an Open Day for more details.

Year 1: Areas studied typically include: animal diversity; form and function; cellular and microbial biology; marine and terrestrial ecology and animal behaviour; molecular and evolutionary biology; plants and algae – diversity, form and function and core skills for bioscientists. Year 2: Areas studied typically include: animal physiology; cell and immunobiology; coastal marine ecology; ecological microbiology and the cycles of life; ichthyology; molecular ecology; parasitology; plant ecology; terrestrial vertebrates; field ecology (residential) and animal conservation and welfare. You will spend Year 3 at one of our partner institutions abroad. This is a marvellous opportunity to experience a different culture and, depending on the destination, to develop valuable language skills. Year 4: Areas studied typically include: biodiversity; biological control of invertebrate pests; epidemiology of infectious diseases; physics for biologists; plant conservation and ecology; sensory ecology; laboratory or field professional skills, phylogeny and macroevolution, hormones and behaviour, international field courses.