Skip to main content

Biological Sciences BSc(Hons)

2024-25 (also available for 2025-26)

It’s not too late to apply for September.
It’s not too late to apply for September.

Start date

16 September 2024

Duration

3 years full-time
4 years inc. placement year

Entry requirements

A Level - BBC-BCC

BTEC - DMM

See full entry requirements

Places available (subject to change)

25

About the course

Reasons to study

  1. This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, and upon completion you can apply for associate membership, which can help to open up industry network opportunities.
  2. Receive hands-on, practical training in our new £18.2 million facilities such as our biological sciences labs using modern equipment.
  3. A work placement year gives you the chance to apply your knowledge to dynamic real-world projects and situations.

Biological Sciences is the study of all living things, which includes multicellular organisms like humans, animals, and plants as well as microorganisms. As a biological sciences student, you’ll have the opportunity to study core topics and consider contemporary issues in all major aspects of biology. Optional choices in each year of your course provide you with opportunities to specialise further in core areas of molecular and cellular biology, organismal biology, and ecology and environmental biology. Alternatively, you can vary your choice of optional modules to keep your coverage of the biological sciences broad.

Why study Biological Sciences BSc(Hons)

A Biological Sciences BSc(Hons) degree is designed to prepare you for an exciting career or for further study in the field of biology. With accreditation by the Royal Society of Biology, this course covers core topics in biology and considers contemporary issues in all major aspects of biology. You’ll have the opportunity to study several core biological sciences modules, which include molecular and cellular biology, physiology and genomics.

You’ll gain relevant real-world experience throughout this course. You’ll be taught by leading biological sciences academics through lectures, seminars, and sessions, which will be supplemented by hands-on experience using modern, scientific instruments in our specialist biological sciences labs.

Following your first two years on the course, you’ll have the opportunity to put your knowledge and skills to the test in an optional supervised work placement year. During this placement year, you’ll experience working in a real-world environment within the industry or research, in the UK or internationally. You’ll also explore employment opportunities within organisations related to your biological sciences studies. On top of that, you’ll network with potential employers and construct work experience profiles to prepare for a future biological sciences career.

This course will prepare you for a variety of potentially exciting careers in a range of fields in the industry, as well as for future study. With careers in medical sciences, the NHS, medical genetics, pharmaceuticals and more.

Course detail

Core modules:

Research Skills

Research in science ranges from finding out what is already known to carrying out investigations to add to our store of knowledge. This module provides the requisite background skills for successful completion of an Honours Degree in Biology. Basic generic skills involving literacy, numeracy and use of IT are applied to summarising, understanding, interpreting and presenting data generated by laboratory investigations. Throughout the module the emphasis is on learning the skills that will be used in various parts of the degree course. Acquisition of learning skills takes precedence over memorising facts. Learning about current topics in science involves finding peer-reviewed scientific literature (using library facilities and database searches), and summarising it with source attribution as a report using correct scientific style. Basic statistics is taught using spreadsheet and statistics programs. You'll also have the opportunity to build up a portfolio of evidence relating to your skills for Personal Development Planning.

Dynamic Living Systems

This introductory module in biogeography defines and explains the major geographic patterns of life on Earth and explores how different terrestrial and oceanic ecosystems are shaped by natural processes and human activity. Some of the planetary processes and nutrient cycles introduced in the Global Earth Cycles module are re-considered in this module from the perspectives of contemporary and prospective global patterns of animal, plant, and microbial diversity. Introductory consideration of the interaction between organisms with their environments provides a foundation for the intermediate level module Ecological Adaptation and Conservation Management. The course is primarily lecture-based but a number of tutorials are included to reflect on and provide supplementary information for the lecture course. A short oceanography-themed laboratory series also features on the module. This module can be taken independently of other foundation-level geography modules, but the oceanography-themed laboratory classes provide a complement to the analytical work performed for the module Global Earth Cycles.

Molecular and Cellular Biology

This module starts with an introduction to basic cytology, the cellular basis of life is considered and a comparison between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells performed. The concept of 'compartmentalisation' is dealt with and the lecture course follows a 'walk through the cell' theme where each organelle is dealt with individually, both in terms of structure and function. Cell culture techniques are introduced, in particular the use of mutants and complementation to analyse biological processes is considered. The problems of packaging DNA in a eukaryotic chromosome is also discussed. The module extends to consider genetic analysis in a number of systems. Simple Mendelian genetics is considered together with more complex linkage analysis and its uses in identifying genes. The special genetic systems of bacteria and fungi are introduced with examples of the strategies employed to make use of these systems.

Physiology 1: Structure and Function

This module covers all the major organs of the body together with models of normal and abnormal bodily function. Emphasis will be directed to the concept of homeostasis and the integration of dynamic processes involved in the maintenance of health.

Option modules:

Choose two modules from a list, which may include-

Biochemistry 1

​Biochemistry 1 gives a basic account of the structure and function of biological macromolecules, particularly proteins and is illustrated by reference to such molecules as haemoglobin. A firm grounding in enzyme action is provided and this is supported by a number of practical classes. The relationship between genes and proteins and the Central Dogma of Molecular Biology are emphasised. A foundation in the study of metabolism is provided, directing you towards an understanding of the underlying principles rather than rote learning of metabolic pathways. The subject provides the basis for further studies in subjects such as Cell Structure and Pharmacology. The subject is delivered by formal lectures and in laboratory classes. However your learning is supported by tutorial classes, the provision of web-based material and, where necessary, a limited amount of individual tuition.

The World of Microbes

This module aims to introduce you to the full range of microbial life and the techniques used to study microorganisms and begins by introducing the diversity and countless activities of microbes. Subsequently, the structural and functional components of the cell and the similarities and differences of prokaryotes and eukaryotes are highlighted. Control of microbial growth, nutritional categories of microbes and environmental factors influencing the growth and viability of microbes are also investigated. The module then examines the biology of eukaryotes (fungi, algae and protozoa) by exploring classification, growth, asexual and sexual reproduction and nutritional adaptations. Finally, the classification of microorganisms using the Whittaker five kingdom system and the Woese three domain system is reviewed, as well as criteria for the identification of microbes. The associated practical classes are designed to develop your laboratory skills and familiarity with the basic microbiological methods.

Global Earth Cycles

This module introduces you to the natural global processes that have shaped the world we live in. It will explore how the past and current environment has been influenced and the interaction between the biosphere and the geosphere. It will begin with the emergence of life on earth and how the generation of oxygen via photosynthesis transformed the terrestrial environment. The module will then progress to examine the classical nutrient cycles (C, N, S, P, Fe, I) and how human intervention has modified and accelerated them. The role of basic soil processes (CEC, hydraulic conductivity, alkalinity etc) in the retention and release of elements and how these impact plant, animal and human nutrition will also be explored. The module will particularly focus on the impacts of agriculture, industry and global climate change. The module has a strong practical component with a focus on fieldwork, data collection, analysis and reporting. The fieldwork element of this module will be delivered during scheduled class time.

Entry requirements

BBC-BCCat A Level  including a grade B in a relevant Science subject. The endorsement for practical work is an essential part of Science A Level study, and is a requirement for entry to our degree course.

112-104 UCAS tariff points from a combination of Level 3 qualifications including a grade B in a relevant Science subject at A Level.

Merit at T Level in Science including a grade B in A Level Chemistry or Biology.

DMM in BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Applied Science.

  • Access to Higher Education Diploma with 45 Level 3 credits at Merit or above to include modules in relevant science subjects.
  • 112-104 UCAS tariff points from International Baccalaureate qualifications which should include modules in relevant science subjects.

If you do not have the appropriate qualifications for direct entry to this degree you may be able to apply to our Science Extended Degree (BCF0).

If your first language is not English, you will need to meet the minimum requirements of an English Language qualification. The minimum for IELTS is 6.0 overall with no element lower than 5.5, or equivalent. Read more about the University’s entry requirements for students outside of the UK on our Where are you from information pages.

Other suitable experience or qualifications will be considered. For further information please see the University's minimum entry requirements.

Meet our students


Covadonga is studying Medical Genetics BSc(Hons). Watch her film to learn more about the modules she studies, her placement experience and the help she gets from her tutors.

Placements


In the third year of this course, you’ll get the chance to step out of the classroom and into the real world on an optional placement year working for an organisation related to your areas of interest. This is when you’ll really be able to see your knowledge in action, pick up invaluable skills for your future career and boost your employability to help you hit the ground running after graduation.

You could stay to do your placement in the UK or experience a new culture and work abroad for one year. Where could this year take you?

Previous students in the Biological Sciences subject area have undertaken placements with Kew Gardens, Lonza, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), and University of Huddersfield.

Going on placement meant I learnt new skills and techniques and had my findings reported back to local coroners to identify causes of death.

None

Isabel Gatenby, Medical Biology BSc(Hons), placement with West Yorkshire Analytical Services, Morley

Your career


Graduates from our Biological Sciences courses can consider a wide range of career options in areas such as medical research, the NHS, molecular sciences, medical genetics, pharmaceuticals, developing scientific patents, medical sales or marketing, medical writing and teaching.

Biological Sciences BSc(Hons) is a new course and the first cohort of students graduated in 2021. Previous graduates from other Biological Sciences courses at Huddersfield have gone on to work in roles such as Clinical Bioinformatician at Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Laboratory Technician at ALS, Microbiology Medical Laboratory Technician at IDEXX Laboratories and Nuclear Medicine Sales Executive at Bartec Technologies.**

*85% graduates from this subject area were in work or further study 15 months after graduation (HESA Graduate Outcomes 12021, UK Domiciled).

**LinkedIn and University of Huddersfield

 

85% Graduates employed*

Student support

At the University of Huddersfield, you'll find support networks and services to help you get ahead in your studies and social life. Whether you study at undergraduate or postgraduate level, you'll soon discover that you're never far away from our dedicated staff and resources to help you to navigate through your personal student journey. Find out more about all our support services.

Important information

We will always try to deliver your course as described on this web page. However, sometimes we may have to make changes as set out below.

Changes to a course you have applied for

If we propose to make a major change to a course that you are holding an offer for, then we will tell you as soon as possible so that you can decide whether to withdraw your application prior to enrolment.

Cancellation of a course you have applied for

Although we always try and run all of the course we offer, we may occasionally have to withdraw a course you have applied for or combine your programme with another programme if we consider this reasonably necessary to ensure a good student experience, for example if there are not enough applicants to ensure you have a good learning experience. Where this is the case we will notify you as soon as reasonably possible and we will contact you to discuss other suitable courses with us we can transfer your application to. If we notify you that the course you have applied to has been withdrawn or combined, and you do not wish to transfer to another course with us, you may cancel your application and we will refund you any deposits or fees you have paid to us.

Changes to your course after you enrol as a student

We will always try to deliver your course and other services as described. However, sometimes we may have to make changes as set out below:

Changes to option modules

Where your course allows you to choose modules from a range of options, we will review these each year and change them to reflect the expertise of our staff, current trends in research and as a result of student feedback or demand for certain modules. We will always ensure that you have a range of options to choose from and we will let you know in good time the options available for you to choose for the following year.

Major changes

We will only make major changes to the core curriculum of a course or to our services if it is necessary for us to do so and provided such changes are reasonable. A major change in this context is a change that materially changes the services available to you; or the outcomes, or a significant part, of your course, such as the nature of the award or a substantial change to module content, teaching days (part time provision), classes, type of delivery or assessment of the core curriculum.

For example, it may be necessary to make a major change to reflect changes in the law or the requirements of the University’s regulators; to meet the latest requirements of a commissioning or accrediting body; to improve the quality of educational provision; in response to student, examiners’ or other course evaluators’ feedback; and/or to reflect academic or professional changes within subject areas. Major changes may also be necessary because of circumstances outside our reasonable control, such as a key member of staff leaving the University or being unable to teach, where they have a particular specialism that can’t be adequately covered by other members of staff; or due to damage or interruption to buildings, facilities or equipment.

Major changes would usually be made with effect from the next academic year, but this may not always be the case. We will notify you as soon as possible should we need to make a major change and will carry out suitable consultation with affected students. If you reasonably believe that the proposed change will cause you detriment or hardship we will, if appropriate, work with you to try to reduce the adverse effect on you or find an appropriate solution. Where an appropriate solution cannot be found and you contact us in writing before the change takes effect you can cancel your registration and withdraw from the University without liability to the University for future tuition fees. We will provide reasonable support to assist you with transferring to another university if you wish to do so.

Termination of course

In exceptional circumstances, we may, for reasons outside of our control, be forced to discontinue or suspend your course. Where this is the case, a formal exit strategy will be followed and we will notify you as soon as possible about what your options are, which may include transferring to a suitable replacement course for which you are qualified, being provided with individual teaching to complete the award for which you were registered, or claiming an interim award and exiting the University. If you do not wish to take up any of the options that are made available to you, then you can cancel your registration and withdraw from the course without liability to the University for future tuition fees and you will be entitled to a refund of all course fees paid to date. We will provide reasonable support to assist you with transferring to another university if you wish to do so.

When you enrol as a student of the University, your study and time with us will be governed by a framework of regulations, policies and procedures, which form the basis of your agreement with us. These include regulations regarding the assessment of your course, academic integrity, your conduct (including attendance) and disciplinary procedure, fees and finance and compliance with visa requirements (where relevant). It is important that you familiarise yourself with these as you will be asked to agree to abide by them when you join us as a student. You will find a guide to the key terms here, along with the Student Protection Plan, where you will also find links to the full text of each of the regulations, policies and procedures referred to. You should read these carefully before you enrol. Please note that this information is subject to change and you are advised to check our website regularly for any changes before you enrol at the University. A person who is not party to this agreement shall not have any rights under or in connection with it. Only you and the University shall have any right to enforce or rely on the agreement.

The Office for Students (OfS) is the principal regulator for the University.

You may also be interested in...

Biological Sciences with Research Placement BSc(Hons)

This accredited Biological Sciences with Research Placement BSc(Hons) degree features a research placement year, career-focused teaching and specialised labs.

Find out more How to apply

Full-time

Undergraduate


Biology (Molecular and Cellular) BSc(Hons)

Gain hands-on experience and a solid foundation in biological sciences on this Biology (Molecular and Cellular) BSc(Hons) degree with an optional placement year.

Find out more How to apply

Full-time

Undergraduate


Biology (Molecular and Cellular) with Research Placement BSc(Hons)

Gain a year’s experience in a research setting on this accredited Biology (Molecular and Cellular) with Research Placement BSc(Hons) degree.

Find out more How to apply

Full-time

Undergraduate


Medical Genetics with Research Placement BSc(Hons)

This accredited Medical Genetics with Research Placement BSc(Hons) degree features a research placement year, career-focused teaching and specialised labs.

Find out more How to apply

Full-time

Undergraduate


Biomedical Science BSc(Hons)

This Biomedical Science BSc(Hons) with an optional placement year prepares you for a range of careers in healthcare including diagnostics and clinical research.

Find out more How to apply

Full-time

Undergraduate


Biomedicine BSc(Hons)

Get to grips with the biology behind human diseases on this career-focused Biomedicine BSc(Hons) degree with optional placement in the third year.

Find out more How to apply

Full-time

Undergraduate


Medical Genetics BSc(Hons)

Study at the leading edge of modern developmental sciences on our Medical Genetics BSc(Hons) degree featuring optional placement and career-focused teaching.

Find out more How to apply

Full-time

Undergraduate


Pharmacology BSc(Hons)

Find your focus for a career in the pharmaceutical industries, health sector or research studying Pharmacology BSc(Hons) degree at Huddersfield.

Find out more How to apply

Full-time

Undergraduate


Biochemistry BSc(Hons)

Take your first steps to becoming part of the vital biochemistry industry on this Biochemistry BSc(Hons) degree with an optional placement year in year three.

Find out more How to apply

Full-time

Undergraduate


Medical Biochemistry BSc(Hons)

Prepare to make your mark in healthcare, pharmaceutics or medical research by gaining your Medical Biochemistry BSc(Hons) degree with us.

Find out more How to apply

Full-time

Undergraduate


Biochemistry with Research Placement BSc(Hons)

Pave the way for a research career, further study or a job in industry with this accredited Biochemistry with Research Placement BSc(Hons) degree.

Find out more How to apply

Full-time

Undergraduate


Medical Biochemistry with Research Placement BSc(Hons)

Get a great grounding in biological sciences and boost your career prospects on our accredited Medical Biochemistry with Research Placement BSc(Hons) degree.

Find out more How to apply

Full-time

Undergraduate