TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Biological Sciences

Explore biology in all its forms ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ from microorganisms to mammals ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ without early specialisation. Gain laboratory and field skills, hands-on experience, and career-ready expertise for roles in ecosystem management, biotechnology and beyond.

Our typical offer

104 UCAS points

Specialised facilities

Benefit from cutting-edge facilities, including glasshouses, electron microscopy, marine labs and interactive microscope tech, gaining hands-on experience in the latest biological tools.

Funded field trips

Enjoy free local or subsidised international field trips, and fully funded international fieldwork in the second year - building skills, confidence and community without financial barriers.

Career-ready focus

Graduate career-ready with expert tutor support, hands-on training, and industry-relevant skills that bridge theory and practice. You'll be highly employable across a range of careers.
BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences

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About

Dive into the full spectrum of contemporary biology with a course praised for its outstanding teaching and expertly crafted curriculum. From ecology and biodiversity to cell biology and animal behaviour, you'll explore cutting-edge science while building essential theoretical and practical skills.
Learn through lab work, field trips, and an optional placement, gaining real-world experience in advanced facilities like glasshouses, environment chambers, and an electron microscopy unit. With guidance from leading researchers and dedicated tutors, you'll graduate confident, skilled, and ready for a successful career in the biological sciences.
Biological Sciences student studying grass.

This course is for you if...

you are excited about biology ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ from ecology and biodiversity to cell biology and physiology
Chameleon
you're energised by fieldwork, eager to take learning beyond the lecture theatre and into real-world environments
Clipboard with two items ticked
youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™re adaptable and curious, eager to learn from pioneering researchers shaping global biological understanding
Three individuals linked by arrows, depicting collaboration
youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™re career-focused, aiming to graduate with the skills and experience to step confidently into the world of work or further study
Two hands shaking hands

Details

Year 1

In your first year, youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll build a strong foundation across the spectrum of the biological sciences. You will begin with an intensive induction module designed to equip you with essential scientific skills, from using scientific literature and analysing real data to sharpening your academic writing and confidently communicating your findings in both written and oral formats.
You will then move into the fundamentals of cell biology, microbiology, and the physiology of animals and plants, whilst continuing to develop a strong set of transferable scientific skills. Hands-on laboratory practicals will take your learning beyond the classroom, giving you the chance to experiment, discover and apply your knowledge in real time. 
You will also have the opportunity to undertake a residential field course or alternative. Recent cohorts spent time at Slapton in South Devon, exploring the natural history and taxonomy of wild plants and animals, and gaining first-hand experience in designing and conducting ecological surveys in the field.
Fieldwork at Slapton Ley ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ BSc (Hons) Environmental Science

Core modules

BIOL119
Introduction to Biology 20 credits

Build a strong foundation in biological thinking through hands-on field and laboratory work. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll learn how to gather, analyse and interpret scientific data, develop essential skills in evaluation and presentation, and start to work independently as a biologist. This module prepares you for deeper study by strengthening your confidence in core scientific practices.

75% Coursework

25% Practicals

BIOL131
Cells: The Building Blocks of Life 20 credits

Explore the molecular and genetic features that allow cells to function. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll investigate cell biology in the context of plant and animal development and learn how cells process complex information to give biological outcomes which have implications at the cellular, tissue and whole organism levels. This module provides a vital grounding in cell biology and development.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

BIOL132
Ecology and the Diversity of Life 20 credits

Discover the principles guiding ecological systems and the immense diversity of life on Earth. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll investigate ecological patterns, evolutionary relationships and the processes that sustain natural communities. By exploring how biodiversity is studied and protected, youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll gain a clear understanding of ecologyÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™s central role in conservation and sustainable management.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

BIOL133
Principles of Physiology 20 credits

Explore how plants and animals function through the lens of comparative physiology, comparing the structures and systems that help them survive. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll learn about key physiological processes and how diverse organisms solve similar biological challenges. This module establishes a broad understanding of organismal biology and prepares you for deeper study in physiology and ecology.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

MBIO161
Evolution and Behaviour 20 credits

Covers the principles underpinning evolution with a special focus on animal behaviour as adaptive traits. Module covers concepts of the genetic basis of inheritance, population genetics, selection, adaptation, function, fitness and speciation. We will use key examples and practical classes to illustrate key ideas and consider the development of some of the ideas in a historical context.

50% Examinations

50% Tests

BMSBS01
Biological Sciences Student Support Stage 1

Receive regular support from your Personal Tutor and develop skills that support your success beyond academic study. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll take part in tutorials, careers sessions and stage meetings, exploring personal development, skill tracking, goal setting and professional planning. This module helps you understand how support, reflection, and structured guidance combine to enhance your progress, wellbeing, and future opportunities.

Optional modules

BIOL138
Spain Field Ecology 20 credits

Experience ecological research first-hand during a residential field course in southern Spain. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll develop skills in species identification, sampling design, taxonomy and biodiversity assessment, working directly with real ecological data. By designing and testing hypotheses, youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll gain the confidence and practical expertise needed for future field-based scientific work.

60% Coursework

40% Tests

BIOL139
UK Field Ecology 20 credits

Take part in an immersive UK based field course that builds your confidence in real ecological research. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll learn to identify major organism groups, practise core sampling and survey techniques, and work with biodiversity data collected first-hand. Through guided fieldwork and student-led exploration, youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll develop ecological and scientific skills grounded in local environments.

60% Coursework

40% Tests

Year 2

In your second year, youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll deepen your understanding of physiology, plant biology, microbiology and the essential research techniques that underpin modern biological science. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll work on collaborative microbiology and plant science research projects, gaining valuable transferable skills in teamwork, communication and problemÂÌñ»»ÆÞ‘solving, alongside developing your core laboratory and analytical abilities. You will customise your learning through optional modules in ecology and the physiology of disease, allowing you to shape your degree around your interests.
A dedicated field course gives you the chance to apply what youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ve learned in lectures, strengthening your practical expertise and building the transferable skills that biologists rely on in research and industry. Previous overseas field trips have spent 10 days in the Azores exploring life in extreme environments at geothermal springs and volcanic lakes and carry out ecological investigations of both invasive and endemic species across the remarkable and unique ecosystems.
Alternatively, you may choose to spend your second year studying at one of our partner universities overseas through our Year Abroad scheme. When you return, you will progress directly into your final year, meaning your degree still takes just three years in total.
Azores fieldtrip

Core modules

BIOL211
Microbial Physiology and Biochemistry

Investigate the extraordinary diversity and lifestyles of Bacteria and Archaea while developing key laboratory research skills. You will document your learning as we blend research oriented approaches with practical activities. You will explore recent advances and applications in microbiology and study organisms across terrestrial, freshwater, plant and host-associated systems.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

BIOL220
Molecular Biology

Explore the core molecular processes that underpin life. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll examine DNA structure, replication, transcription and translation, and investigate the theoretical basis of recombinant DNA technology. By studying gene-expression modulation across diverse taxa, youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll gain a robust foundation in molecular techniques used in research and industry across the biological sciences.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

BIOL233
Biological Sciences Field Course 20 credits

Join an overseas residential course that strengthens your field-biology expertise. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll explore local ecosystems, investigate biological and environmental features, and collect and analyse ecological data across diverse taxa,from microbes to mammals. With an emphasis on evolutionary processes and hands-on discovery, this module prepares you for advanced field research and scientific communication.

67% Coursework

33% Tests

BIOL234
Methods in Biology 20 credits

Develop essential laboratory and field skills used across the biological sciences. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll learn safe and effective techniques for data collection, experiment design and analysis using tools such as statistical software and bioinformatics. This module builds your competence and confidence in practical biology, preparing you for more advanced research and technical work.

70% Coursework

30% Tests

BIOL235
Plant Ecophysiology

nvestigate how plants interact with their environments across a range of natural and human-altered habitats. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll examine stress responses, adaptation strategies and the traits that allow species to succeed under specific conditions. Through real examples, youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll develop a clear understanding of how plants cope with environmental pressures and ecological relationships.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

BMSBS02
Biological Sciences Student Support Stage 2

Deepen your engagement with coordinated support and skill-tracking during Stage 2. This module helps you to strengthen your personal and professional development, through pastoral support and careers sessions, preparing you for the increased independence and complexity of upper-level study. It ensures continued academic progression and confidence.

Optional modules

BHCS2018
Systems Physiology: Function and Dysfunction 20 credits

This module examines human physiological mechanisms of function of major body systems at the cellular, tissue, organ and organism level. It also explores mechanisms of dysfunction at the cellular, organ and systems level. The module will emphasize relationships between structure and function and will emphasize correlations between normal physiology and pathophysiology, normal anatomy and pathology, and homeostasis and homeostatic imbalances.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

BIOL214
Ecology 20 credits

Build a strong understanding of ecological principles at the levels of individuals, populations and communities. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll explore how ecological processes operate and species interact in both aquatic and terrestrial systems, and examine how scientists search for general theories in ecology. This module provides a solid conceptual framework for advanced ecological analysis and problem-solving.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

Optional placement year

Many of our students choose to take an optional placement year between their second and final years, gaining invaluable handsÂÌñ»»ÆÞ‘on experience in real scientific environments. You can complete either two threeÂÌñ»»ÆÞ‘month placements or one sixÂÌñ»»ÆÞ‘month placement though many of our students choose to stay with their placement provider for the full year. Throughout the process, youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll be supported by a dedicated Placement Adviser, a member of academic staff who will be your main point of contact with the University.
Our placement providers are incredibly diverse. Previous students have worked everywhere from nature reserves and bird sanctuaries to leading research institutions such as Aarhus University in Denmark, where students have investigated coldÂÌñ»»ÆÞ‘loving, ironÂÌñ»»ÆÞ‘reducing bacteria, even taking part in fieldwork in the Svalbard archipelago within the Arctic Circle.
Given the wealth of opportunities a placement year provides, and the significant boost it brings to your employability, we strongly encourage all students to seriously consider undertaking one.
Close-up of friendly and cute Monk Parakeet. Green Quaker parrot and hand. Woman is petting parrot - stock photo. Getty 2201843542.

Core modules

APIE303
Biology:Placement

Undertake at least 24 weeks of hands?on professional training with an approved host organisation. During your placement, youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll apply biological knowledge in real work settings, develop technical and transferable skills, and gain insight into how biological science operates across sectors. This experience helps bridge academic learning with future career ambitions.

Final year

In your final year, youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll shape your degree around the areas of biology that excite you most. A wide selection of optional modules allows you to specialise in fields such as plant biotechnology, environmental microbiology, global change biology, bioprospecting, animal nutrition and ecotoxicology. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll also choose from two advanced skills modules, each designed to develop industryÂÌñ»»ÆÞ‘relevant, practical expertise not typically offered at undergraduate level, helping you stand out in a competitive job market.
A major component of your final year is your research project. Working under the supervision of an academic specialist, youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll apply the knowledge, techniques and scientific understanding youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ve developed throughout your degree to an independent piece of research, giving you the chance to explore a topic youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™re passionate about and demonstrate your capabilities as a biological scientist.
ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ Agri-Tech Cornwall FIND research project

Core modules

PROJ302
SoBMS Project 40 credits

This module provides an opportunity to undertake a research project on an individually developed topic and experience the entire process of scholarly research: from problem formulation, through the design and execution of an investigation, analysis of results and presentation of outcomes. It will develop skills in independent working and self-awareness in relation to personal, professional and academic development.

75% Coursework

25% Practicals

BMSBS04
Biological Sciences Student Support Stage 4

Deepen your engagement with coordinated support and skill-tracking during Stage 2. This module helps you to strengthen your personal and professional development, through pastoral support and careers sessions, preparing you for the increased independence and complexity of upper-level study. It ensures continued academic progression and confidence.

Optional modules

BIOL301
Plant Biotechnology 20 credits

Explore the science behind plant biotechnology and its importance to global food security. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll learn how genetic and molecular techniques are used to improve crops, and critically examine the ethical, social and environmental debates surrounding biotechnology. This module develops your understanding of both the science and the broader implications of modern plant innovation.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

BIOL310
Global Change Biology 20 credits

Investigate how climate change is reshaping plant and animal biology and distributions. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll explore current predictions for ecological change over the coming century and examine how this knowledge informs conservation action. By connecting climate science with ecological practice, the module prepares you to engage with one of the most urgent challenges facing biodiversity.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

BIOL311
Ecotoxicology 20 credits

Examine how pollutants affect aquatic organisms and ecosystems. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll study key concepts, analytical techniques and evaluation methods used to assess contaminant impacts. Through applied examples, youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll learn how ecotoxicology supports environmental protection and informs policies aimed at safeguarding water quality and ecosystem health in a changing world.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

BIOL320
Animal Nutrition 20 credits

Discover how principles of animal nutrition across species can be used to understand and formulate diets that meet animalsÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ nutritional needs. Learn how regulatory, physical, and manufacturing factors shape modern feed production, and uncover the vital role nutrition plays in animal welfare and productivity. You will apply this knowledge to design effective, evidence-based diets that support optimal animal health and performance.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

BIOL321
Pharmacology and Natural Products 20 credits

Discover the diversity of natural products and their wide range of applications. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll examine how these compounds are synthesised, how they function at cellular and molecular levels, and how theyÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™re used across clinical and industrial contexts. The module offers a broad, integrative insight into pharmacology, highlighting the diversity and importance of natural product chemistry.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

BIOL322
Aquatic Microbial Ecology 20 credits

Explore the rich microbial diversity of aquatic ecosystems. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll study microbial roles in freshwater, marine and hypersaline environments and examine the methods used to investigate them. By connecting current research with hands-on understanding, this module prepares you to analyse microbial communities and their ecological significance.

50% Practicals

50% Examinations

BIOL323
Advanced Behaviour Analysis Techniques 20 credits

Gain hands-on experience collecting and analysing complex behavioural datasets using modern techniques. You will follow a group of animals, quantify individual behaviour and track social interactions, utilising coding to construct a social network. You will also learn to communicate behavioural insights to a variety of audiences, including scientists and the public.

50% Coursework

50% Practicals

BIOL324
Advanced Bioinformatics and Phylogenetics 20 credits

Build expertise in the analytical skills needed to work with large biological datasets. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll explore bioinformatics tools, phylogenetic methods, image analysis and genomic approaches and learn to interpret complex biological patterns. This module prepares you to apply cutting-edge data science to answer major questions in ecology, evolution, behaviour and molecular biology.

50% Coursework

50% Practicals

BIOL325
Biodiversity Conservation: Science, Policy and Practice 20 credits

Engage with real conservation case studies from around the world and learn what drives both biodiversity loss and successful restoration. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll explore stakeholder interests, ethics, policy influences and community-led approaches to conservation. The module equips you to understand how evidence, policy and on-the-ground action combine to shape modern conservation practice.

100% Coursework

 
 
 
 
 
 
Enhance your competitiveness in a global jobs market with our .
Accreditation provides industry with an assurance of the level of employability skills and subject relevant bioscience skills provided by a programme
Royal Society of Biology

Course-specific academic regulations

This course has unique rules relating to:

  • Progression
  • Passing a module
View the full regulations for this course

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the UniversityÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the UniversityÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™s policies and requirements.

Experience

Science that matters

Molecular ecology in action: are you really eating cod?

As part of their practical training in molecular ecology, students take on a real-world challenge: using DNA barcoding techniques to identify fish species sold at local fish and chip shops. 
This engaging lab exercise introduces students to genetic analysis, species identification, and food authenticity ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ” combining scientific inquiry with consumer awareness. 
ItÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™s a perfect example of how classroom learning translates into impactful, hands-on science.
 
 

Benefit from fieldwork, near and far

As a core part of our BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences course, you will have the opportunity to participate in two residential field trips, or an alternative.
Joining us in September 2025 or 2026? The University will now cover the cost of your international travel (flight to and travel within the country) and accommodation for your second-year field trip ensuring you can take part in this valuable learning experience without any financial worries. This trip is an excellent opportunity to apply your knowledge in a real-world setting, create memories with your classmates, and enhance your studies. 
Azores (Portugal)
Fieldwork in Azores, Portugal
Azores biological sciences field trip - seed processing
Seed processing
Zahara de los Atunes sandy beach and dunes,Spain
Zahara de los Atunes, Spain
 
 
"I really enjoyed how broad it was and being able to just try each aspect of biology as a whole. It gave me the chance to find what I was most interested in and then work towards that without having to know, straight away at 19, what I wanted to do."
Graduates Mariella and Bethany talk about their experiences of studying BSc (Hons) Biological Science at ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ. From broad and varied lab work to fieldtrips that cemented friendships; sporting opportunities to enjoying the balance of accessible natural and city environments that ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ has to offer.
 
 
 

Facilities designed for real-world experience

Access a wide range of specialist facilities and resources from day one, supporting your learning and research while building confidence with the latest technologies and techniques in biological science.
Marine station
Student in the Level 2 Containment laboratory
EDS image for PEMC
EuropeÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™s first 5G interactive microscope labs enable students to get up close with science
Our Marine Station is equipped with research vessels and gives you hands-on experience with marine sampling and species identification.
The Lower Vertebrates and Invertebrates laboratory is home to a variety of species and supports practical classes and research projects.
ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ Electron Microscopy Centre (PEMC) provides high-resolution imaging for advanced biological study. 
Our 5G interactive microscope laboratory is the the first of its kind in Europe and allows you to capture, annotate and embed images directly into assignments. 
  •   LABplus ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ a resource centre designed to support practical work, offering equipment, sample materials and learning aids to reinforce your lab skills.
  • Ecoloans library ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ offering access to equipment such as bat detectors, camera traps, sensors, binoculars, nets, GoPros and field guides.
  • Controlled environment chambers ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ enabling precise experimental work in varying environmental conditions.
 
 

Expand your horizons with a research expedition

Research expeditions offer the chance to assist our expert researchers in the field, both locally and internationally.
Unlike course-based field trips, these expeditions span diverse disciplines, allowing you to choose a project that aligns with your interests while gaining hands-on research experience and valuable skills.
Previously students have:
  • taken part in cetacean surveys aboard the University yacht, Take The Helm, between ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ and the Isles of Scilly
  • carried out assessments of south-west UK fish nurseries, catching, identifying and measuring juvenile fish in a number of key estuary sites
  • spent two weeks on a field course in North Sulawesi (Bunaken and Bangka islands) where they learned about the biodiversity of coral reefs and how to monitor them
  • enjoyed a week in the Azores, collecting data to assess the relative abundance of different colour forms of Clouded Yellow butterflies.

I felt very fortunate to have the opportunity to be taught about coral reefs by experts while directly observing the reef. I don't think many learning experiences can top that.

Marine science students on a research expedition netting fish.
Fish netting in the UK
Marine biology students snorkelling in indonesia.
Diving in Indonesia
Marine science students on a research expedition to teh Azores
Research expedition to the Azores
 
 

Keep up to date 

Follow us to get a greater insight into what you might experience on a biological sciences degree at ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ.
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Marine Biology students in the Davy Labs
 
 
 

Support every step of the way

Your personal tutor will provide both academic and personal support and guidance throughout your years at ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ. We take special pride in the enthusiasm of our staff and the quality of our student support. Personal development planning is integrated into our degree courses through the personal tutor system and gives time for you to plan and reflect on your learning and to apply it to objectives and opportunities that are relevant to you. We offer a wide range of specialist advice, including a dedicated study skills unit, which provides online support and workshops to support your learning.
Dr Anne Plessis Lecturer in Plant Biosciences


Lecturer in Plant Biosciences

Dr Chiara Boschetti Lecturer in Biological Sciences


Lecturer in Biological Sciences

Dr George Littlejohn Associate Professor of Plant and Fungal Biology


Associate Professor of Plant and Fungal Biology

Show all

Research

Our staff and postgraduate students are involved in a wide range of relevant research. We are closely linked with the following research groups:

Anemone 
Animal Behaviour Research Group
Ecology and Evolution Research Group. Red bird.
Ecology and Evolution Research Group
Aerial view from high altitude of little planet earth with small village houses and distant green cultivated agricultural fields with growing crops on bright summer evening
Sustainable Earth Institute
 
 
 

Enrich your studies ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ join BioSoc

The Biology Society (BioSoc), proudly supported by the Royal Society of Biology, welcomes anyone with an interest in biology ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ regardless of their degree. It offers a vibrant mix of social, educational, and volunteering events, including nature walks, lab workshops, guest talks, beach clean-ups, and pub nights. Enjoy networking opportunities, discounted RSB membership, and chances to earn CPD points while making a positive impact on the environment and community. Whether you're looking to learn, connect or contribute, BioSoc has something for everyone.
Back view of carefree hikers running on a meadow. Getty 1329456860.
 
 
 

Life in ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ

ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You donÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
 

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student

Students sitting on the Barbican
Life in the city
Discover what ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ and its unique geographical location have to offer
Accommodation halls internal
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene

Careers

Adam Wright, BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences graduate

The atmosphere of studying at ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ opened my eyes to the sea, and my biology degree provided me with professional credentials that allowed me to develop my skills as a marine biologist.

Adam
BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences graduate

 
 
Our biological sciences course is specifically designed to cover a wide range of topics across biology with a focus on practical lab and field based skills meaning you will be highly employable across a range of careers in the wider context of biology. 
Graduates work in areas as diverse as biotechnology, pharmacology, food, ecology, fisheries, the media and environmental consultancy. Many of our graduates go on to study at postgraduate level ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ gaining MSc or PhD qualifications.
Thanks to the broad coverage of our course, you will be very well prepared to go into teaching biology at school level. Alternatively, the key graduate skills that you will obtain allow you to move on to careers away from biology as diverse as law and management.
  • ]

    89% of our biological sciences graduates are in work or further study*

*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys from the latest available data covering the three years of 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
 

Why you should do a placement

Bethany Cook conducting research on her placement year.

I had various projects and responsibilities throughout my 10-month placement which meant every day was variable. Some of these projects included the effect of microplastics to insect communities, and comparing the effect of fermented seaweed bio stimulants on basil plants.

My placement has given me so much more confidence in my abilities to work in the field of biology ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ undertaking a placement can be challenging but it is so rewarding. 
Bethany
BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in
 2026-2027.
Full-time study
£9,790 per year
Module fees for repeated or part-time study
£815 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,955
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,465
 
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
The Government has announced that tuition fees from Academic Year 28/29 onwards will be subject to automatic annual inflationary increases, which we believe will be at a similar rate to the recent annual increases to fees, and may continue to be inflation based. The University may increase annual tuition fees in line with the Student Contract and the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government from time to time.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies and we advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
More information about fees and costs of studying.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,955
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,465
 

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying.
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international studentÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the GovernmentÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Additional costs

This course is delivered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Studying a course in this faculty may incur additional costs relating to field-based activities or equipment requirements. 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
 
 

TOTUS student scholarship

With thanks to TOTUS Engineering, we are able to provide one scholarship a year to a student who is intending to study one of our undergraduate Biological Science, Marine Biology or Ocean Science degrees and fulfils at least one of the required criteria.
The recipient will receive £500 per year for the three years of their undergraduate course (excluding placement year) to help with their studies.
Find out more and apply
At the beginning of their second year, Marine Biology students go on an experimental field course to Portugal, resized
 
 

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
104 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSE
All applicants must have GCSE (or equivalent) English and Mathematics at grade C / 4 or above.

A levels
104 points, to include grade C A level in Biology and prefereably a second relevant subject (Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Geography, Geology, Environmental Science or Environmental Studies, Applied Science, Marine Science). General Studies accepted.

BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma/RQF National Extended Diploma
DDM in Science. If you hold a BTEC qualification, it is vital that you provide admissions@plymouth.ac.uk with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information, we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.

Access courses
Science-based diplomas, 33 credits in science-based units at merit including a minimum of 12 credits in biology units and 21 credits in a second science subject. 

T level
Merit in Science. Refer to institution.

International Baccalaureate
26 points overall to include Higher Level Biology and a second relevant Science subject. English and Maths can be considered within.

Extended entry requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
 
Please note that we do interview some applicants for this programme, at the Admissions Tutor's discretion. 

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
 
UCAS course code
C100
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ

    • Other routes into this course

    The following courses are available as routes into this programme.

    BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences with Foundation Year

    Looking for an alternative route into biology degrees? This foundation year, taught by University academics, builds your knowledge, confidence and study skills ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ preparing you to succeed and progress onto any biology degree.

     

    Entry requirements

    We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
     
    Our typical offer
    104 UCAS points
     
     

    BSearch entry requirements for your country

    5

    English language requirements

    To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
     

    Ready to apply?

    As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
     
  • Find an agent

    • Need support with your application?

    • Personal statement guidance
    • student visa support
    • travel and arrival information
    • and more.
     
    UCAS course code
    C100
    Institution code
    P60
    Duration

    3 years
    (+ optional placement)
    Course type

    Full-time
    Study location
    ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ

    Other routes to this course

    The offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ degrees. Courses are specially designed for EU and international students who are missing the grades for direct entry to the University, and include full duration visa sponsorship. You can start in January, May or September, benefitting from small class sizes, top-quality tuition and 24/7 student support.
    Find out more at plymouth.ac.uk/upic or contact our team at info@upic.plymouth.ac.uk
     
     
     

    Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day

    Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ.
     
    Book your place
    Man sitting outside with surrounded by friends
     
     
     
    The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.