BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences with a Placement Year
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- _C104
- Typical Offer
- AAB (specific subjects required)
- Contextual Offer
- BBB (specific subjects required)
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2025
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
Study life itself, from its very origins and the early stages of evolution, to the minutiae of molecular, cellular, and organismal processes. Study growth and development, investigate the complex entanglements of ecosystems, and learn about health and disease. Learn how biology can be applied to major global challenges, including disease, food security, and climate change.
In our BSc Biological sciences with a Placement Year course, you’ll benefit from exposure to our brilliant academics and cutting-edge research. We're part of the Norwich Research Park (NRP), and academics from the hospital and four world-renowned NRP research institutes will teach on your course.
Flexibility and choice are key features of this four-year degree programme, which aligns with the structure of our BSc Biological Sciences. A defined first year ensures that you have a broad understanding and gives you a platform for further study. In years two and four, a wealth of subject choice lets you explore the areas of biology that interest you most. In year 3 you have the opportunity to source a work placement. This placement year makes an invaluable addition to your scientific knowledge and skills, increasing your employability options in the future.
UEA offers excellent facilities, including fantastic new teaching laboratories. We have brand-new, state-of-the-art research labs and our beautiful campus is home to diverse organisms that you’ll have the opportunity to study.
Your degree will lay the foundations for a career in research, but you’ll also develop transferable skills that will prepare you for a career outside of biology, such as science communication and data analysis. Your degree has Advanced Accreditation from the Royal Society of Biology, confirming that it meets high standards in teaching and skills development.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
On this course you’ll spend your third year working on a placement that is relevant to your interests, gaining experience and skills that are highly valued by future employers. You’ll be expected to seek your own work placement, and in the first two weeks of your second year you’ll be asked to write a CV and to apply to a range of employers. Not only will this ensure that you work within your preferred field, it’ll also provide you with the essential job-hunting skills you’ll require after graduation. Though you UEA cannot guarantee you a placement we'll, of course, offer our guidance and support whilst you're identifying and negotiating placement opportunities.
During the year on placement, you’ll be supported by a placement supervisor and a mentor from the university. You and your placement supervisor will feed back during the placement to ensure that it's progressing well, and your UEA mentor will visit you during the year.
If you're unsuccessful in securing a work placement by the end of your second year, you’ll have the option to apply to transfer onto the equivalent degree programme without a placement year or the Biological Sciences MSci degree.
Accreditations
This course has been given Advanced Accreditation by the Royal Society of Biology, following an independent and rigorous assessment. Advanced accreditation recognises academic excellence in the biosciences, and highlights degrees that educate the research and development leaders and innovators of the future. The advanced accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from advanced accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including gaining substantial research experience.
Study and Modules
Structure
Our four-year degree programme allows you to study a wide range of science subjects in the first year without prematurely committing yourself to any particular specialisation. In your second and final years you can steer your programme towards your key areas of interest. Your third year will be spent on a placement in the workplace that is relevant to your interests.
In the first year of your degree, you’ll be given a thorough introduction to biological sciences, alongside other core elements relating to the study of biology, such as chemistry, mathematics, and data science. You’ll also begin to learn the key scientific skills essential to your future research projects and develop creative and innovative problem-solving skills.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Our School is home to world-class academics and internationally recognised researchers. We’re proud to say we have some of the best facilities in the country, including our fantastic undergraduate practical laboratories.
The majority of your learning will take place in lectures, seminars, practical laboratory sessions and fieldwork, where you’ll gain hands-on experience and benefit from invaluable contact time with lecturers. In your modules you’ll undertake applied work in collecting, analysing and reviewing data, plus making observations on biological processes, with a particular emphasis on the critical assessment of existing knowledge. In seminars and group discussions you’ll hone your problem posing and solving skills. And in your first year you’ll focus on cultivating your mathematical and statistical skills.
In year one study a required set of subjects that encompass the breadth of biological science, from ecosystems to molecular biology. This ensures that you’ll have the platform knowledge required to progress to year two, where you’ll have greater choice in your areas of study. In giving you a taste of different aspects of the biosciences, this structure will enable you to see which aspects of biology you're most interested in pursuing further.
Independent Study
You’ll have plenty of opportunities for independent study using our state-of-the-art University library throughout your course. During your final year dissertation project, you’ll develop your skills in research design and analysis, which you’ll use throughout your career. You’ll also be assigned an Academic Adviser who will help you identify and work on areas for improvement across all your studies.
Assessment
You’ll encounter a range of assessment methods, including examinations, project reports, lab and fieldwork reports, presentations, essays, multiple-choice and short-answer tests. Many modules have a mixture of examination and coursework, some are 100% coursework. None are assessed only by examination.
You’ll be assessed using a variety of methods, including low-stakes tests that will enable you to track your learning as modules progress. You’ll be asked to write lab reports, an authentic form of assessment that will enable you to develop skills in analysing and reporting scientific data.
Structure
Your second year will allow you to pursue your interests in specialist biology subjects through a range of optional modules. You’ll also be trained in practical skills, which will strengthen your analytical, innovative and professional skills, thus further preparing you for the final year research project. In addition, you’ll have the option of learning from another science school or acquiring a language, subject to the approval of the desired school of study
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 60)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In your second year, you’ll have greater freedom in choosing subjects of particular interest to you, and you may also choose to pursue the study of a language or learn the basics of another science. You might choose modules that are primarily focussed to focus primarily on human health and disease, molecular biology and biotechnology, or ecology, conservation, evolutionary and population biology. Or you might choose to mix and match from each of those areas. The emphasis in this year is on flexibility and on allowing you to create your own path through the course. We firmly believe that you’ll learn best if you're studying what interests you most.
Assessment
There is a continued emphasis on authentic assessment coursework. Most modules also have exams.
Structure
You’ll spend your third year on a work placement, gaining experience and developing your skills and knowledge. We have established links throughout the UK and beyond, and we'll help you identify and compete for appropriate positions.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
You’ll spend your third year on a work placement, gaining experience and developing your skills and knowledge. During this time, you continue to be a UEA student, with access to all online resources, such as the library. We'll keep in regular contact to ensure your placement progresses as planned.
Assessment
Your placement year will be assessed by an extended written report and a presentation upon returning to UEA, which will be graded on a pass or fail basis.
Structure
In your final year, you’ll have an even greater range of modules to choose from, which will focus on specific biological topics ranging from food security to cancer biology. You’ll study topics in greater depth and can acquire a variety of skills that will support you as you conduct your substantial independent research project.
Due to the seasonal and sometimes residential nature of fieldwork, Biological Science students wishing to do Ecological research projects can choose to change from the default Research Project module to the Ecology Research Project module which has a slightly different timeline allowing for fieldwork to be conducted over summer.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 60)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 40)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In your fourth year, a third of your time will be spent on a larger research project. This is your chance to investigate a new problem, from designing the experiment, to conducting lab or field work, to collecting and interpreting your findings. This project is your capstone experience, allowing you to bring together the skills you’ve gained over the previous years of the course. For many students it's also the most rewarding part of their studies.
The other two years will be spent similarly to your second year. At this level, topics will be more advanced, often taught by academics who are experts and leading researchers in their subject areas. This is your chance to solidify your area of interest within biological science.
Assessment
The emphasis on authentic assessment continues as you’ll complete an extended research project, with assessment based on a research proposal, report, and presentation. Most non-project modules have exams.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
AAB including Biology or Human Biology
Contextual offer: BBB including Biology or Human Biology
Where applicable Science A levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDD in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management OR DDD plus B at A-Level Biology or Human Biology .
Contextual offer: DDM in Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management.
For Forensic and Criminal Investigation applicants MUST be studying ONE of the following modules: Physiology and Human Body Systems, Environmental Forensics, Forensic Genetics, Microbiology and Microbiological Techniques.Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.Excludes BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration.Combinations of BTEC and A levels
Diploma: DD in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management plus B at A-Level in one other subject OR DD plus B at A-Level Biology or Human Biology.
Contextual offer: DD in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management plus C at A-Level in one other subject OR DD plus C at A-Level Biology or Human Biology.
Extended Certificate: D in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management plus AB at A-Level including Biology or Human Biology, OR D plus AB at A-level in Biology/Human Biology and one other subject.
Contextual offer: D in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management plus BB at A-Level including Biology or Human Biology, OR D plus BB at A-level in Biology/Human Biology and one other subject.
For Forensic and Criminal Investigation applicants MUST be studying ONE of the following modules: Physiology and Human Body Systems, Environmental Forensics, Forensic Genetics, Microbiology and Microbiological Techniques.Where applicable Science A levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies. Excludes BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration.Access to HE Diploma
Access to Science pathway. Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3 including 12 credits in Biology
T levels
Obtain an overall Pass including a A in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. We accept: Science pathway.
Foundation Year options:
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as - BSc Biological Sciences with a Foundation Year
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
33 points overall with HL5 in Biology
Irish Leaving Certificate
4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3 including Biology
Scottish Highers
AAAAA including Biology.
Scottish Advanced Highers
BBC including Biology. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students.
A levels
AAB including Biology or Human Biology
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
International Baccalaureate
33 points overall with HL 5 in Biology
- INTO UEA
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
-
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.
-
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
You're eligible for reduced fees during the placement year. Further details are available on our Tuition Fees webpage. There may be extra costs related to items such as travel and accommodation during your placement year, which will vary depending on location.
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
You’ll not only gain scientific knowledge, you’ll also develop your skills in areas of research and communication, IT, data collection, analytics and critical thinking. This combination will make you highly employable. Our graduates have gone on to establish careers in pharmaceuticals, the food and brewing industries, medical laboratories, forensic sciences, conservation management, environmental assessment, teaching, science communication and more. Many of our graduates progress on to higher degrees (e.g. MSc, PhD) and an academic career.
Careers
Recent graduates have entered a number of fields, including:
- Pharmaceutical industry
- Healthcare
- Food industry
- Science media and publishing
- Environmental management and conservation
- Teaching
Discover more on our Careers webpages.