BSc (Hons) Molecular Biology and Genetics
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- CC74
- Typical Offer
- ABB (specific subject requirements apply)
- Contextual Offer
- BBC
- Course Length
- 3 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2024
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
After the enormous advances made in the last few years, this is the perfect time to study molecular biology and genetics. Studying this BSc Molecular Biology and Genetics will give you a fundamental grounding in the study of biology whilst enabling you to decide which area of molecular biology or genetics best fits with your interests.
You’ll study alongside students from our other biology courses and will have the opportunity to decide how to shape your own degree to reflect the areas of biology you want to explore. This may include specialising medical genetics, biotechnology or agriculture, as well as their application in fields such as human health and disease, microbial or plant molecular biology, cellular signalling, and evolutionary biology.
Whichever route you decide to pursue, this flexible programme of study will give you the chance to enjoy modules from across our diverse range of topics, taught by staff who are experts in their field. In the most recent Times Higher Education REF Analysis (2021), we were ranked 17th overall for research quality in Biological Science.
The School of Biological Sciences brings a strong research-led ethos to every course we offer. More than 220 people within the School are actively involved in current research, with subjects ranging from the biochemical, molecular and cellular levels to ecological interactions and evolutionary processes. Some of our research focuses on understanding fundamental biological principles and some is applied research such as protein structure and microbial energetics, the study of human diseases, and conservation biology.
Our students 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: the John Innes Centre, the Sainsbury Laboratory, the Earlham Institute and the Quadram Institute.
Study and Modules
Structure
This three-year degree programme allows you to develop your knowledge of biology in the first year, alongside your training in essential scientific methods and techniques. In your second year, you will have the chance to specialise, taking core modules in molecular biology and genetics but also selecting optional modules according to your own interests. In the final year, you will have the opportunity to specialise further and have the opportunity to undertake a substantial independent research project.
Your first year of study gives you a thorough introduction to areas which are essential for all biologists and are fundamental to the study of life processes, including an introduction to molecular biology and genetics. You will also receive training in essential scientific methods and techniques, including applied mathematics and statistics.
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 and practical laboratory sessions, which will provide you with hands-on experience as well as invaluable contact time with lecturers.
Our programme modules involve applied work in collecting, analysing and reviewing data, plus observations on biological processes, with a particular emphasis on the critical assessment of existing knowledge. Problem posing and solving skills are promoted through seminars and group discussions. And mathematical and statistical skills are developed in both semesters in the first year.
Research design and analysis are brought together in your third-year undergraduate research project, which we encourage you to deliver as independently as possible.
Independent study
You’ll have plenty of opportunities for independent study using our state-of-the-art University library and online resources, and you’ll be assigned an Academic Adviser who will provide you with guidance throughout.
Assessment
We use a range of assessment methods throughout the course to best reflect the subject matter in hand. These include formal examinations, project reports, course tests, practical reports, poster and oral presentations, essays and worksheets.
Your balance of coursework and examinations will vary depending on your module choices. Although many of our modules are assessed through a mixture of coursework and examination, a few are assessed only through coursework. For example, at Level 5, the majority of modules are assessed through 40% coursework, 60% examination, although a small number of modules are 100% coursework.
Structure
In your second year, you’ll study two core modules: Molecular Biology and Genetics. However, the majority of your subjects are optional, with up to eight modules to choose from. They cover a variety of subjects, from biochemistry to evolutionary biology, allowing you to begin tailoring your degree according to your own interests.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 20, 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 and practical laboratory sessions, which will provide you with hands-on experience as well as invaluable contact time with lecturers.
Our programme modules involve applied work in collecting, analysing and reviewing data, plus observations on biological processes, with a particular emphasis on the critical assessment of existing knowledge. Problem posing and solving skills are promoted through seminars and group discussions. And mathematical and statistical skills are developed in both semesters in the first year.
Research design and analysis are brought together in your third-year undergraduate research project, which we encourage you to deliver as independently as possible.
Independent study
You’ll have plenty of opportunities for independent study using our state-of-the-art University library and online resources, and you’ll be assigned an Academic Adviser who will provide you with guidance throughout.
Assessment
We use a range of assessment methods throughout the course to best reflect the subject matter in hand. These include formal examinations, project reports, course tests, practical reports, poster and oral presentations, essays and worksheets.
Your balance of coursework and examinations will vary depending on your module choices. Although many of our modules are assessed through a mixture of coursework and examination, a few are assessed only through coursework. For example, at Level 5, the majority of modules are assessed through 40% coursework, 60% examination, although a small number of modules are 100% coursework.
Structure
In your final year of study, you will have the opportunity to undertake a substantial independent research project, as well as continuing to study a number of other modules, including an advanced-level genomics module, which is core to the programme. There is greater range of optional modules (up to eleven), allowing you to specialise further in subjects of particular interest to you.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 40)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 and practical laboratory sessions, which will provide you with hands-on experience as well as invaluable contact time with lecturers.
Our programme modules involve applied work in collecting, analysing and reviewing data, plus observations on biological processes, with a particular emphasis on the critical assessment of existing knowledge. Problem posing and solving skills are promoted through seminars and group discussions. And mathematical and statistical skills are developed in both semesters in the first year.
Research design and analysis are brought together in your third-year undergraduate research project, which we encourage you to deliver as independently as possible.
Independent study
You’ll have plenty of opportunities for independent study using our state-of-the-art University library and online resources, and you’ll be assigned an Academic Adviser who will provide you with guidance throughout.
Assessment
We use a range of assessment methods throughout the course to best reflect the subject matter in hand. These include formal examinations, project reports, course tests, practical reports, poster and oral presentations, essays and worksheets.
Your balance of coursework and examinations will vary depending on your module choices. Although many of our modules are assessed through a mixture of coursework and examination, a few are assessed only through coursework. For example, at Level 5, the majority of modules are assessed through 40% coursework, 60% examination, although a small number of modules are 100% coursework.
Entry Requirements
- A Levels
- ABB 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 a B in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. Acceptable subjects are: Science.
- BTEC
- DDM in Applied Science, Applied Science (Medical Science) or Animal Management OR DDM plus A Level grade B in 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 - BBC including Biology or Human Biology
BTEC - DMM 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
- AAABB including grade A in Biology. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Scottish Advanced Highers
- BCC including Biology. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- 3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3 including Biology.
- Access to HE Diploma
- Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3 including 12 credits in Biology.
- International Baccalaureate
- 32 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):
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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:
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- 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: DDM in Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Animal Management OR DDM plus A Level Biology or Human Biology.
Diploma: DD in Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Animal Management plus B at A-level OR DD plus A Level grade B in Biology or Human Biology.
Extended Certificate: D plus BB at A-level to include Biology or Human Biology.
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
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of 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 courses don't just provide you with scientific knowledge; they also develop your skills in the areas of research and communication, IT and data science, data collection, analytics and critical thinking. Our graduates have entered careers in pharmaceuticals, food and brewing industries, medical laboratories, forensic sciences, conservation management, environmental assessment, teaching, science communication and more.
The School of Biological Sciences works together with UEA’s Careers Service to offer you support at every stage of your course, from choosing a career through to applying for graduate jobs and further study.
Careers
Example of careers that you could enter include:
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Healthcare
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Medical laboratory work
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Genetics
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Teaching
Discover more on our Careers pages.
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.
