Course overview
Our Biological Sciences course spans the entire scale of biological systems, from molecules to ecosystems. Our exceptionally wide range of options allow you to choose modules that are best suited to your interests and career ambitions.
You will be exposed to cutting-edge research in molecular, cellular and whole organism biology, while covering applications of science to major global challenges such as environmental management, food security and human health.
Teaching
You will have weekly (first year) and fortnightly (second and third years) taught tutorials, which are in small groups to ensure that you are able to develop and receive regular feedback on assessment.
Purpose-built teaching facilities are fully integrated with research laboratories, meaning you will be learning alongside teaching and research staff who are at the cutting edge of their fields. You will spend one or two days a week undertaking lab work. This becomes more project-oriented in your second year, culminating in a six-week individual research project in your third year.
Class sizes
In your first year, lecture sizes are typically 370 students. The modules you take in years two and three will vary in class size.
The maximum number is typically 100 and the minimum 10 students.
Typical contact hours
12 to 16 hours per week over 25 weeks.
In your first year you should expect around:
- 10 lectures a week
- A full day in the laboratory
- A taught tutorial with your personal tutor and several of your peers
Independent learning, reading and preparing for lectures and preparing assessments will occupy the rest of your study time.