BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences (with a Year Abroad)
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- C10C
- Typical Offer
- ABB (specific subject requirements apply)
- Contextual Offer
- BBB (specific subject requirements apply).
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2024
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
Study life itself. Discover the why, how and what of living organisms, from how we came to be, to how we’ve since evolved.
Our four-year Biological Sciences degree spans the entire scale of biological systems, with the additional benefit of a year spent studying overseas, giving you the chance to experience a different way of life – and to study at a biology department that may focus on different aspects of the subject, broadening your knowledge. Towards the end of your degree, you’ll be able to choose your own area of specialisation.
We’re world leaders in biological research, and you’ll benefit from exposure to our cutting-edge research in molecular, cellular and whole-organism biology. In the most recent Times Higher Education REF Analysis (2021), we were ranked 17th overall for research quality in Biological Science.
You’ll get to grips with the application of science to major global challenges, such as environmental management, food security, biotechnology and human health. And you’ll explore the role of biology in tackling the challenges society faces today and in the future.
Our flagship Biological Sciences degree allows you to study a wide range of science subjects in your first year without committing yourself straightaway to any particular specialisation. You’ll also be given a grounding in other core sciences such as mathematics, statistics and chemistry.
You’ll spend your third year studying at one of our partner universities in Australasia, North America or Europe. This is a fantastic opportunity – academically, socially and culturally – to experience university life in another country. Your year abroad, and the adaptability it fosters, will also be an attractive asset to future employers.
As the course progresses, the flexibility of the programme encourages you to explore and pursue your own specialist interests within biological sciences. You’ll also have the chance to develop your specific scientific interests through independent research in your final year, when you’ll complete a substantial research project. If you love the world around you – examining how this connects to that, and how that impacts on this – our degree is an excellent choice. You’ll cover topics from antibiotic resistance to biofuels, from cancer to bees. And you’ll lay the foundations for a career at the forefront of biological research, where you could have a positive impact on the daily lives of people all over the world.
You will benefit from our enviable position as an integral partner of the Norwich Research Park, which is also home to the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, and independent, world-renowned research institutes such as the John Innes Centre, the Sainsbury Laboratory, the Earlham Institute, and the Quadram Institute.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
Complete Years 1 and 2 successfully and you’ll spend year 3 studying at one of our partner universities in North America, Europe or Australasia. We’ll take your academic interests and placement preferences into account when allocating the university that we feel is your best fit, from your chosen short-list.
For further details, visit the Study Abroad pages. You’ll not only gain scientific knowledge, you’ll also develop your skills in areas of research and communication, IT and data science data collection, analytics and critical thinking. This combination makes you highly employable.
Study and Modules
Structure
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 science, such as mathematics. You’ll also begin to develop the key scientific skills essential to your future research projects.
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. And we’re proud to say we have some of the best facilities in the country, including our fantastic, new undergraduate practical laboratories, that were completed in July 2019.
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 each of 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 heavily on cultivating your mathematical and statistical skills.
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, developing the independent study skills 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 experience a range of assessment methods throughout the course, reflecting the subject matter in hand. These include formal examinations, project reports, course tests, practical and fieldwork reports, poster and oral presentations, essays and worksheets. Your balance of coursework and examinations will vary depending on your module choices. Many of our modules are 40% coursework, 60% examination, but a small number are 100% coursework.
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 60)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.
Structure
Complete years 1 and 2 successfully and you’ll spend your third year studying overseas at one of our partner universities in Australasia, North America or Europe. All universities have their own area of research focus, reflected in their teaching, so your year abroad is a fantastic chance to cover aspects of biology that aren’t our main focus at UEA. This means that not only will you get to experience another country and culture, you’ll broaden your academic horizons too.
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. And we’re proud to say we have some of the best facilities in the country, including our fantastic, new undergraduate practical laboratories, that were completed in July 2019.
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 each of 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 heavily on cultivating your mathematical and statistical skills.
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, developing the independent study skills 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 experience a range of assessment methods throughout the course, reflecting the subject matter in hand. These include formal examinations, project reports, course tests, practical and fieldwork reports, poster and oral presentations, essays and worksheets. Your balance of coursework and examinations will vary depending on your module choices. Many of our modules are 40% coursework, 60% examination, but a small number are 100% coursework.
Structure
In your final year, you’ll have an even greater range of modules to choose from, which will focus on specific biological issues ranging from conservation genetics to cancer biology. You’ll also study some topics in more depth and can choose to take modules that will support your research 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
Our School is home to world-class academics and internationally recognised researchers. And we’re proud to say we have some of the best facilities in the country, including our fantastic, new undergraduate practical laboratories, that were completed in July 2019.
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 each of 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 heavily on cultivating your mathematical and statistical skills.
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, developing the independent study skills 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 experience a range of assessment methods throughout the course, reflecting the subject matter in hand. These include formal examinations, project reports, course tests, practical and fieldwork reports, poster and oral presentations, essays and worksheets. Your balance of coursework and examinations will vary depending on your module choices. Many of our modules are 40% coursework, 60% examination, but a small number are 100% coursework.
Entry Requirements
- A Levels
- AAB including Biology or Human Biology. A-Level General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted. Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer alongside an A in the EPQ.
- T Levels
- Obtain an overall Pass including an A in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. Acceptable subjects are: Science.
- BTEC
- DDD in Applied Science, Applied Science (Medical Science) or Animal Management OR DDD plus B at A Level Biology or Human Biology. Excludes Public Services, Uniformed Services, Forensic Science and Business Administration. See below for accepted subjects and combinations.
- Contextual Offer
A Level- BBB including Biology or Human Biology
BTEC L3 Extended Diploma- DDM in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Animal Management
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.
- Scottish Highers
- AAAAA including grade A in Biology. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Scottish Advanced Highers
- BBC including Biology. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- 4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3 including Biology.
- Access to HE Diploma
- Pass the 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.
- International Baccalaureate
- 33 points with HL5 in Biology.
- GCSE
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.
- 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:
• Pre-sessional English at INTO UEA
• Academic English at INTO UEA
- Interviews
Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Hub. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required, the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.
- 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.
- Intakes
This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.
Additional Information or Requirements
Extended Diploma: DDD in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Animal Management OR DDD plus B in A level Biology or Human Biology.
Diploma: DD in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Animal Management plus B at A-Level in one other subject OR DD plus B in A level Biology ot Human Biology.
Extended Certificate: D plus AB at A-level in Biology/Human Biology and one other subject.
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element.
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.
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.
We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, or are taking a combination of qualifications, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.
International Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.
INTO University of East Anglia
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:
International Foundation in Pharmacy Health and Life Science
Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
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 are eligible for reduced fees during the year abroad. Further details are available on our Tuition Fees website.
There will be extra costs related to items such as travel and accommodation during your year abroad, which will vary depending on location.
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
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
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 have progressed on to higher degrees (e.g. MSc, PhD).
Careers
A degree at UEA will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. We've been ranked 1st for Job Prospects by StudentCrowd in 2022.
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Healthcare
- Pharmaceutical industry
- Science media and publishing
- Environmental management and conservation
Discover more on our Careers webpages.