Biological Sciences

Our integrated Master’s in Biological Sciences is aimed at aspiring researchers and those seeking a career in science. This four-year undergraduate course enables students to explore the current frontiers of knowledge in their chosen field and provides training in advanced research techniques.

The Biological Sciences course provides the greatest possible choice and flexibility in the study of all aspects of biology, allowing you to choose modules across virtually the whole range of subjects that the School offers and tailor the degree to your own interests as they develop. You can choose to focus on a particular aspect of biology, such as organisms, ecology and environment, or opt to cover a wider range of topics.

The programme combines scientific understanding with the development of academic skills (critical appraisal, evaluation and analysis of data) along with the development of practical, presentation and written skills within a scientific context. The course ultimately aims to produce graduates who are employable, well-informed, versatile and enthusiastic ambassadors for science.

Recent Biological Sciences graduates have gone on to careers in research institutes, environmental consultancies, drug companies, the NHS, teaching, and many non-biological careers such as banking and management. A significant number progress to undertake Master’s or PhD training programmes.

Distinctive features

Our degrees are closely linked to the research interests of the staff who teach them, allowing you to experience the excitement of learning in an active research environment. We attract substantial external research funding and this will allow you to make use of the latest equipment, techniques and facilities in your project work. The School also maintains a permanently staffed Field Station in Borneo, as well as leading the University’s Sustainable Places and Water Research Institutes, allowing access to a wide range of exciting training opportunities.

This programme offers a high degree of flexibility with student choice at its core. You have the freedom to decide how your academic experience develops. You can choose to specialise in a particular area or to maintain a wide breadth of learning and explore the interdisciplinary research that underpins much of the School’s success.