(Full time) 2022 start
Biological Sciences MBiol, BSc
Overview
Our biological sciences programme focuses on the molecular and cellular aspects of life sciences. It is an interdisciplinary degree, bringing together subjects such as cell biology, molecular genetics, microbiology, immunology and biochemistry.
You will develop a broad knowledge base in biological sciences, with opportunities to specialise in areas that interest you, and learn from world-leading researchers in the field.
You will be able to make an impact with this degree as biological scientists are working to tackle many of the major global challenges such as cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, ageing, antibiotic resistance and sustainable food production.
As new techniques for studying and manipulating molecules and cells (eg cryo-electron microscopy and gene editing) are rapidly increasing our understanding of living organisms, this is a very exciting time to study an undergraduate degree in biological sciences.
Our optional integrated Masters (MBiol) offers you an additional year of specialist training, to study advanced research topics and undertake your own extended research project.
Course highlights
Choose one of the following four pathways to specialise in after your first year, from molecular medicine, infection and disease, genome biology and disease or plants and agriculture.
Weekly research-focused practical classes gives you extensive hands-on experience in the laboratory, with the option to experience working in a research lab in your final year.
Develop a range of transferable skills such as data analysis, interpretation and critical appraisal which will equip you for a wide range of career options when you graduate.
A wide choice of research-led advanced topic lectures in your final year cover specialist topics in cell and molecular biology, exposing you to the latest techniques and cutting edge research.
Flexible degrees
Biological sciences is a broad-based degree within the School of Molecular and Cellular Biology which offers you flexibility throughout your time studying at Leeds.
All our School of Molecular and Cellular Biology degree courses shares the same set of compulsory modules in the first year. A key benefit of having a common first year is that at the end of year 1, there are opportunities to transfer onto degree courses in biotechnology and enterprise, microbiology, medical microbiology. Additional degree courses may be available depending on your academic background.
Biological science or biology?
Unsure of the difference between biological sciences and biology?
Accreditation
This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology. Advanced Degree Accreditation by the Society 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 the programme meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including gaining a substantial period of research experience.
This accreditation is applicable to the following course variants: BSc Biological Sciences (Industrial); MBiol Biological Sciences; MBiol Biological Sciences (Industrial); MBiol Biological Sciences (International).
Course content
Year 1
Designed to give you a broad grounding in biosciences you will be introduced to cell biology, human physiology, biochemistry, microbiology, genetics and immunology.
This will provide you with a broad understanding of life at the molecular and cellular level. You’ll also have the opportunity to select from a range of optional modules to broaden your studies.
You’ll develop skills in laboratory techniques for studying microorganisms (microscopy, sterile technique) and cellular components such as proteins and DNA (eg PCR, electrophoresis), including experience in experimental design.
Practical classes are organised as short projects, and linked to core lecture material. In regular tutorials with your personal tutor, you’ll develop your ability to analyse, interpret and present data, and use scientific information to solve problems, together with both written and oral presentation. You will also receive guidance to start thinking about your future career plans.
At the end of year 1, our flexible degree structure offers you the opportunity to transfer onto other suitable degree courses.
Year 2
You will study genetic engineering and genomics, and discover how disease processes disrupt cellular structure and function; and continue to study core topics in molecular and cellular biology, building on your learning in Year 1.
Choose to focus your studies in one of four areas of interest over the remaining years of the course:
Infection and disease – focuses on virology, immunology, bacteriology and parasitology to understand current and emerging infections.
Molecular medicine – concentrates on drugs used to treat cancer and infectious diseases, and how these work at the molecular level.
Genome biology and disease – includes bioinformatics, human genetics and reproductive medical science, aiming to understand the role played by genes in human health.
Plants and agriculture - focuses on plant science, sustainable agricultural practice and the role of biotechnology in improving global food security.
Complete research-focused practical labs projects, involving cloning and gene expression and studying the effects of growth factors on cell division, bringing together the techniques learnt in year 1 to and reinforcing lecture material.
Tutorials with specialist tutors will develop your skills in experimental design, research ethics, data analysis and interpretation, and reviewing the current research literature on topics of interest, as well as support for career planning.
At the end of year 2, you will have the opportunity to complete an industrial work placement, study abroad, or combined study and work abroad. This will add an additional year of study to your degree.
Year 3
You will conduct an independent research project under the supervision of one of our world-class scientists. This can be laboratory-based, working alongside professional research scientists, literature-based, researching the global understanding of a cutting edge topic or computer-based, using modern bioinformatics techniques to analyse and interpret biological data.
Past student research topics have included:
Studies on the use of stem cells in treatment of cardiovascular disease.
Using CRISPR to study zika virus.
Researching the gut microbiome using real-time PCR and DNA sequence analysis.
Using bioinformatics to study signalling molecules in blood cancer.
Each year, some of our students gain their first publication from their project work, so this could be your chance to contribute to scientific knowledge.
Alongside this, you’ll continue to develop both subject-specific and transferable skills, and study a range of advanced topics of your choice which will develop your knowledge of these areas to the cutting edge of research.
Integrated Masters
Our integrated Masters MBiol programme shares the same year 1 and 2 studying with our BSc programme, providing a foundation knowledge and skills.
Year 3 MBiol
You will undertake a practical project which will introduce you to increasingly sophisticated techniques, and research facilities such as mass spectrometry, electron microscopy and NMR, in preparation for your lab project.
You will also conduct a literature review of your proposed extended research project, with the support of your supervisor. Alongside this, you will select advanced skills modules, and study current topics aligned with your choice of theme.
Year 4 MBiol
Spend approximately 6 months working on your extended research project in your supervisor’s laboratory, alongside a skills module designed to prepare you for a career as a professional scientist.
MBiol projects are very varied, using a range of advanced techniques such as CRISPR, advanced DNA/RNA sequencing techniques, X-ray crystallography, bioinformatics and many more, depending on the project. MBiol students regularly contribute to journal articles published by their supervisor, so this project may provide the first publication of your career.
Course structure
The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.
Discovery modules
Throughout your degree you will benefit from a range of opportunities to expand your intellectual horizons outside or within your subject area.
This course gives you the opportunity to choose from a range of discovery modules. They’re a great way to tailor your study around your interests or career aspirations and help you stand out from the crowd when you graduate. Find out more about discovery modules on our Broadening webpages.
Learning and teaching
You’ll experience a wide range of teaching methods including lectures, tutorials and practicals. Your first and second years will focus on these three teaching methods, building your skills, understanding and knowledge in preparation for your final year research project, which will see you take on independent research and learning with the guidance of leading experts.
Across all years, additional workshop and seminar sessions will complement your lectures and lab practicals, and you will undertake private study, supported by online resources.
As a guide, a typical week in your first year includes eight to nine hours of lectures, six hours of practical sessions in the laboratory, tutorials, workshop and seminar sessions, plus private study.
Independent study and research are crucial to every year of the course. We have excellent library and computing facilities to support your learning, and the University Library offers training to help you make the most of them.
On this course you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.
Assessment
We use a variety of assessment methods to help you develop a broad range of skills. These include practical work, data handling and problem-solving exercises, multiple-choice tests, group work, online and face-to-face discussion groups, computer-based simulations, essays, posters and oral presentations.
Entry requirements, fees and applying
Entry requirements
A-level: AAB
BSc: AAB
MBiol: AAA
Including biology or chemistry and another science or science-related subject. Critical thinking and general studies excluded.
We accept the following:
Science: biology, human biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics.
Science-related: computing, environmental science, food science, geography, geology, PE, psychology, statistics.
Applicants taking a Science A-level (in England) will be required to achieve a pass in the practical element in addition to the standard A-level grade requirement.
When an applicant is taking the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) or the Cambridge International Project Qualification (Cambridge IPQ) this can be considered alongside A-levels and may attract an alternative offer in addition to the standard offer. If you are taking A-levels, this would be ABB at A-level and grade A in the EPQ (BSc applicants) or AAB and grade A in the EPQ (MBiol applicants)."
GCSE: Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English.
The Faculty of Biological Sciences will accept Level 2 Functional Skills English in lieu of GCSE English.
-
Access to HE Diploma
BSc: Pass 60 credits overall with 45 credits at Level 3, graded at D39M6P0 including distinctions in biology and mathematics or chemistry. Accept Access courses in Applied Science and Science. Will also consider (depending on subject content):
We accept Access courses in Applied Science. We will also consider (depending on subject content:)
biochemical sciences
biological and environmental science
biological and health science
biological sciences
biosciences
combined sciences
environmental science
life and biological science
life science
medical and health science professions
natural sciences
physical & natural sciences.
MBiol: We do not accept Access to HE.
-
BTEC
BTEC extended diploma entry requirements: DDM plus A/B in A-level Chemistry. The preferred BTEC qualification subject is Applied Science (other subjects may be accepted).
BTEC diploma entry requirements: DD plus A/B in A-level Chemistry. The preferred BTEC qualification subject is Applied Science (other subjects may be accepted).
Applicants with BTEC Subsidiary Diploma qualifications must normally have at least 2 A-levels and at least one of these should be Chemistry (plus another science or science-related subject depending on the BTEC subject).
MBiol: We do not accept BTEC qualifications.
-
Cambridge Pre-U
BSc: D3/D3/M1 including D3 in biology or chemistry plus one other science or science-related subject. Global Perspectives excluded.
MBiol: D3/D3/D3 Including biology or chemistry plus another science or science-related subject. Global Perspectives excluded.
When an applicant is taking Global Perspectives this can be considered alongside Pre-U subjects and may attract an alternative offer in addition to the standard offer. This would be D3/M1/M1 and grade D3 in Global Perspectives (BSc applicants) or D3/D3/M1 and grade D3 in Global Perspectives (MBiol applicants)
-
International Baccalaureate
BSc: 34 (with 17 at higher level) including 6 in higher level biology or chemistry and another science or science-related subject at higher level.
MBiol: 35 (with 18 at higher level) including 6 in higher level biology or chemistry and another science or science-related subject at higher level.
-
Irish Leaving Certificate (higher Level)
BSc: H2,H2,H2,H2,H3,H3 including H2 in biology or chemistry and another science or science-related subject at higher level.
MBiol: H2,H2,H2,H2,H2,H2 including biology or chemistry and another science or science-related subject at higher level.
-
Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers
BSc: Advanced Higher: 5 x Highers AABBB, with AB in 2 Advanced Highers including biology or chemistry and another science or science-related subject. Critical thinking and general studies excluded.
MBiol: 5 x Highers AABBB, with AA in 2 Advanced Highers including biology or chemistry and another science or science-related subject. Critical thinking and general studies excluded.
We accept the following:
Science subjects: biology, human biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics.
Science-related subjects: PE, geography, use of mathematics, psychology, statistics, geology and computing.
Scottish Higher: Scottish Highers not accepted on their own
Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the Schools Undergraduate Admissions Team.
Alternative entry
We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.
Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.
Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.
Typical Access to Leeds offer
BSc – A level: BBB
MBiol – A Level: ABB
Specific A Level subjects required – see entry requirement section above.
GCSE: Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE Maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English.
Access to Leeds: Pass
International Foundation Year
International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.
English language requirements
IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any component.. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.
Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.
How to apply
Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.
We welcome applications from mature students. We welcome applications from mature students from all backgrounds onto both full-time and part-time programmes.
International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.
Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.
Admissions guidance
Visit our admissions guidance page for more information about applying to undergraduate courses in the Faculty of Biological Sciences.
Application process
The Faculty of Biological Sciences may consider applications submitted after this date. Availability of courses in UCAS Extra will be detailed by UCAS at the appropriate stage in the cycle.
Alternative Entry Scheme for mature applicants
As per the information detailed in the corresponding section of the University of Leeds Taught Admissions Policy the Faculty of Biological Sciences will consider prospective students via the Alternative Entry Scheme run by the Lifelong Learning where appropriate applicants will be referred to the Lifelong Learning Centre, who will advise the applicant further.
Interviews
Except for those courses detailed below, interviews do not form part of the Faculty of Biological Sciences’ standard admissions process however, in some cases, an applicant may be invited for an interview if it will help inform whether or not an offer should be made.
Fees
UK: See fees section below
International: £25,250 (per year)
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2024/25
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students are set by the UK Government and will be £9,250 for students starting in 2024/25.
The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation only, as a consequence of future changes in Government legislation and as permitted by law.
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students starting in 2025/26 have not yet been confirmed by the UK government. When the fee is available we will update individual course pages.
Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2024/25 and 2025/26
Tuition fees for international students for 2024/25 are available on individual course pages. Fees for students starting in 2025/26 will be available from September 2024.
Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.
Read more about paying fees and charges.
There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.
Financial support
The Faculty of Biological Sciences offer a range of scholarships for UK, EU and International students. Find out more about our scholarships
Career opportunities
As well as providing you with subject-specific knowledge, we aim to equip you with the best possible skills for a variety of future careers. All of our degrees have a strong emphasis on practical based teaching, small group teaching, online learning and problem solving.
Throughout the degree, you’ll gain a wide range of transferable skills which are highly valued by employers. Supported by the faculty student opportunity team, Leeds for Life scheme and your academic and personal tutor, you’ll be ideally placed to focus on your personal development and make the most of your time at university.
Our graduates have, for many years, experienced high employment rates and a high proportion quickly gain employment upon graduation. With the expansion of the biosciences comes the generation of new and varied career opportunities.
Typical graduate careers include:
Academic research
Research bioscientist
Postgraduate study
Graduate medicine/dentistry
Science communication
Teaching
Examples of recent graduate destinations include:
Research & Development Scientist
Research Technician
Junior Account Executive
Corporate audit
MSc Physician Associate studies
PhD Regenerative medicine
Medicine
Careers support
We have a dedicated student opportunity team in the Faculty of Biological Sciences who work closely with the University’s Careers Centre.
We offer a host of additional opportunities beyond core course content, including volunteering and placements. These include our annual student-alumni networking event, where graduates are invited back to talk about their work and network with our students, and our STEM Careers Fair, which gives you the chance to meet bioscience employers, such as AstraZeneca, Covance, GSK, Nuffield NHS Ecological consultancies, speak to alumni, attend workshops and get masses of information.
We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.
Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.
The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more about Careers support.
Study abroad and work placements
Study abroad
On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. We have over 300 University partners worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America.
Find out more at the Study Abroad website.
If you choose to undertake a study abroad option, you will spend the third year of your course studying abroad. This will extend your studies by 12 months.
Work placements
Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.
Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.
Industrial placements are taken after your second year. This will extend your studies by 12 months. For your work placement in industry, the staff at Leeds will help you with your CV and recruitment process and provide details of organisations.
Placements abroad are possible. We work together with your industrial supervisors to make sure you get the most out of this year. A year working in industry gives you an excellent opportunity to get used to the demands of the world of work, to develop new skills and to augment your CV.
Combined study and working abroad
Our new module allows you to combine both a study abroad and industrial work placement into one additional year of study. Over the year you will study for a semester at one of our partner universities and complete an industrial work placement for 6 months abroad or in the UK.
Find out more about Combined study and work abroad.