Biological Sciences with Foundation Year

Gain a deeper understanding of the world around you with our unique BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences with Foundation Year degree.

Biology is the science of living things and is also used to explain how humans interact with and influence the natural environment. Furthering our knowledge in biology has led to new technological advances and a deeper understanding of the world around us. We've developed this course to enhance your appreciation of the diversity of living organisms and your understanding of biological principles.

Take your scientific knowledge further
This foundation year pathway is recommended if you want to study the full honours degree, but don’t meet the direct entry requirements. On successful completion of the foundation year, you will have the knowledge and skills required to confidently progress to study the BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences degree, which is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology.

Delivered across three further years of study - or four, if you choose to include a professional placement - you will build your knowledge of genetics, human or animal physiology, biodiversity, alongside diving deeper into areas such as parasitology and antimicrobial resistance.

Throughout your studies, you will develop strong laboratory skills. As a biological sciences student, you will spend lots of time in our advanced Bodmer laboratories. These well-equipped, purpose-built facilities, ensure your learning remains at the cutting-edge of innovation and discovery. The labs host industry-standard instrumentation, including cell culture facilities, histology specimen preparation station, fluorescence spectroscopy and microscopy.

Delivered in small groups in a supportive learning environment, you will benefit from plenty of hands-on experience in the labs as well as fieldwork opportunities. In recent years, students have taken part in residential trips to Cumbria, Yorkshire and Shropshire.

On the full BSC (Hons) degree, you will have the option to take an industry placement between years two and three, which is a great way to enhance your CV, gain hands-on work experience and build industry connections.

Features
• Build strong foundational knowledge in biology, ready to progress to the full BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences degree
• Develop laboratory skills ready for your graduate career
• Have the opportunity to include an industry placement to boost your employability skills
• Part-time study option available

This course is not open to international students.

Foundation Year:

• Data Handling
• Professional Communications
• Biological Principles
• Scientific Methods
• Science for Health
• Environmental Conservation

Year One:

• Biological Skills
• Biodiversity
• Cell Biology
• Molecules to Microbes
• Genetics
• Study Skills

Year Two:

• Introduction to Parasitology and Infectious Diseases
• Biological Research Skills
• Pathophysiology

Choose one option from:

• Microbial Communities and Interactions
• Ecology in Action
• University Wide Language Programme

And one option from the following:

• Molecular Genetics
• Ocean Challenges

And choose one option from the following physiology modules:

• Animal Physiology
• Human Physiology

Year Three:

• Biology of Parasites
• Antimicrobial Resistance: Threats and Solutions

Choose one option from the following:

• Final Year Project and Professional Skills
• Final Year Project with Science Communication and Professional Skills (HANS)

Plus one option from:

• Biotechnology
• Clinical Immunology
• University Wide Language Programme

And one option from:

• Practical Ecology and Conservation
• Applied Freshwater Biology
• Veterinary and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases
• University Wide Language Programme

40%
Coursework

60%
Examination