Biological Sciences MBiol, BSc

Studying the molecular and cellular aspects of life is at the heart of our Biological Sciences degree. Understanding how cells respond to and influence their environment drives the most exciting discoveries in biomedical science.

How do mutations cause inherited disorders and cancer? How do viruses replicate within cells? What is the molecular basis of antibiotic resistance? During your degree, you will be taught by world-leading researchers who are at the forefront of tackling global challenges such as cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, ageing, antibiotic resistance and emerging viruses.

Biological Sciences is our most flexible and interdisciplinary degree, which enables you to build a broad knowledge base in your first year, with opportunities to tailor your studies and specialise in themes such as Molecular Medicine; Infection and Disease; or Genome Biology and Disease in subsequent years of the course.

This integrated Masters (MBiol) gives you an additional year of specialist training, to study advanced research topics and undertake your own extended research project. You may also choose to apply for our 3 year BSc and transfer to an MBiol up until the end of your second year, subject to suitable academic performance.

Course highlights

• Choose one of the following three themes to specialise in after your first year: molecular medicine, infection and disease or genome biology and disease.
• 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.
• Weekly research-focused practical classes will provide extensive hands-on experience in the laboratory, with the option to experience working in a research lab in your final year.
• Amass unique and vital experience through an exciting industrial placement or study abroad opportunity.
• Development of 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.
• One year of additional specialist training culminating in an extended research project.
• Extensive wellbeing and employability support from dedicated Faculty teams.
• Outstanding graduate employability amongst top employers, both within and beyond scientific research.

Wellbeing and support

The University of Leeds features an extensive network of excellent services dedicated to you and your wellbeing. We are here to help throughout your time in higher education, ensuring you have everything you need to succeed. For more information on the different facets of support you will have access to, please see our Wellbeing and Support page.

Wellbeing afternoons

Here at the University of Leeds, we are acutely aware that teaching is only part of a healthy, engaging university lifestyle. Activities which contribute to your wellbeing are vital, and so we have created Wednesday Wellbeing Afternoons.

These afternoons are a period of time with as much teaching as possible removed to give you the chance to pursue your passions. This may be a competitive sport for the university, a social sporting activity, or indeed any activity which contributes to positive mental health. We want your degree to be as flexible as possible so that you can make the most of your time here with us.

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 share 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, subject to approval. Additional degree courses may be available depending on your academic background.

Biological science or biology?

Unsure of the difference between biological sciences and biology?

Facilities

The School of Molecular and Cellular Biology is an international research hub with outstanding facilities for structural biology, biophysics, cell biology and imaging. This is underpinned by a recent £17 million investment by the University and a large grant portfolio from major external funders (the Wellcome Trust, Royal Society, BBSRC and MRC). These facilities underpin our research-led teaching and allow us to offer final-year projects at the frontier of modern research. Recently refurbished teaching labs and dedicated computer clusters will allow you to develop your practical and computational skills during the first two years of your course. The Faculty Student Opportunity Team provide expert support for preparing applications for placements, internships and jobs.

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).

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to
time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

Most courses consist of compulsory and optional modules. There may be some optional modules omitted below. This is because they are currently being refreshed to make sure students have the best possible experience. Before you enter each year, full details of all modules for that year will be provided.

For more information and a list of typical modules available on this course, please read MBiol BSc Biological Sciences in the course catalogue.

Year 1

You will study microbiology, genetics, immunology, biochemistry and cell biology as they relate to biomedicine. You will develop your practical skills with hands-on laboratory sessions, where you will become experienced in data collection and problem-solving. You will strengthen your core theoretical knowledge through lectures and interactive seminar groups. Upon the conclusion of your first year, you will have achieved the key foundations needed for success at degree level.

At the end of year 1, our flexible degree structure offers you the opportunity to transfer to relevant degree courses in the School of Molecular and Cellular Biology. Course transfers are subject to space and academic background approval.

Compulsory modules

Introductory Skills in the Molecular Biosciences (20 credits) - You’ll be trained in data collection and experimental techniques relevant to the biological sciences, as well as problem-solving, teamwork, and presentation skills. You will learn how to use laboratory equipment, design and execute simple experiments, understand approaches used to study biochemical and molecular processes, analyse and interpret numerical data, and present information clearly in written and oral forms.

Introductory Skills in Microbiology (20 credits) - Continue your skills training from first semester, with a focus on data collection and laboratory techniques relevant to microbial sciences, as well as further developing your skills in problem-solving, teamwork, and communication. You will engage with a mix of practical classes, tutorials, and computer-based classes, and will learn about aseptic technique, bacterial culture, microscopy, PCR, electrophoresis, and DNA sequencing as you work through several microbiology-focussed mini-projects applying theoretical knowledge gained from your lecture modules.

Basis of Life (20 credits) - You’ll learn about the fundamental processes of life, identifying the key concepts that underpin the biological processes in all living organisms, from bacteria to elephants. On completion of the module, you will have a comprehensive grounding in the molecular basis of life from the atomic scale up to cells.

Introduction to Microbiology (20 credits) - You’ll be introduced to a wide range of microscopic life forms and viruses. You will learn about microbiology in a broad sense and explore the diversity of microbial life with emphasis on how we interact with microbes that are responsible for infections as well as those that do not normally cause disease. You will learn how microorganisms interact with each other and how they influence the lives of more complex organisms, for good or ill and will learn how fungi, bacteria and viruses are observed and manipulated safely.

Introduction to Genetics (10 credits) - You’ll be provided with essential foundational knowledge in genetics, exploring the different meanings of ‘genetics’ and how this concept has changed over time. More importantly, you will explore what genetics means for us as organisms. To what extent do genes determine our inheritance? And how do our genes make us the distinct and unique organisms we are?

Introduction to Immunology (10 credits) - You’ll review fundamental immune mechanisms with particular emphasis on human immunology and its relationship to health and disease. You will discover how we protect ourselves from infection through our immune defences, learning about the roles played by the different types of leukocytes, antibodies and complement.

Optional modules

20 credits from the following

The Diversity of Life (10 credits) - You’ll be provided with an overview of the evolution and diversity of life, the key features that define each group and the role of those taxa in ecological processes. Each group of organisms will be linked to a major global challenge including food security, disease, and wildlife conservation, to demonstrate how fundamental science informs important societal issues.

Living Planet (20 credits) - You’ll have an overview of the evolution and diversity of life, the key features that define each group and the role of those taxa in ecological processes. Each group of organisms will be linked to a major global challenge including food security, disease, and wildlife conservation, to demonstrate how fundamental science informs important societal issues.

Short Introduction to Human Body (10 credits) - You’ll be introduced to body systems, largely on a weekly basis, with an emphasis on how systems operate and interact. The idea that disease can disturb, or result from disturbances of, these systems will be introduced for each system.

Discovery Modules (Up to 20 credits) - As well as the compulsory and optional modules that make up your programme of study, you may be able to choose something different to your main subject as a Discovery Module.

Year 2

You will build upon your year one core modules, but with a focus on advanced topics such as omics and big data biology and how diseases disrupt cellular structure and function.

Choose to focus your studies in one of three themes over the remaining years of the course:

Infection and Disease – focus on virology and bacteriology to understand current and emerging infections.

Genome Biology and Disease – includes bioinformatics and human genetics and aims to understand the role played by genes in human health.

Molecular Medicine – focuses on the molecular and cellular basis of human diseases, such as cancer.

Complete research-focused practical lab projects, involving cloning and gene expression in addition to studying the effects of growth factors on cell division.

Tutorials with specialist tutors will help you develop a myriad of skills: experimental design, research ethics, data analysis and interpretation, and reviewing current research literature. You will also receive support for your 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.

Compulsory modules (all themes)

Intermediate Skills in the Molecular Biosciences (20 credits) - You’ll be trained in data collection, experimental techniques, and problem-solving in the context of molecular and cellular biology, biochemistry, and microbiology. You will build on your expertise learned in your year one skills modules, and will cover practical experiments in gene cloning, protein expression, PCR, electrophoresis, and enzyme assays, as well as tutorials on data handling, problem-solving, and critical reviews of current topics in cell and molecular biology.

Intermediate Skills in Cell Biology (20 credits) - You’ll be trained in data collection, experimental techniques, and problem-solving in the context of molecular and cellular biology. You will also carry out laboratory experiments to analyse the cell cycle and continue to develop your data handling and problem-solving skills.

Omics and Big Data Biology (20 credits) - You’ll be introduced to omics-based approaches at the forefront of equipping biologists to overcome global challenges. You will develop practical data-science skills in comparative genomics, transcriptomics and proteomics in order to conduct group-based and individual research projects.

Theme 1: Infection and Disease compulsory modules

Medical Microbiology (20 credits) - You will gain a detailed understanding of important human viral and bacterial pathogens and methods of combatting these infections.

Medical Immunology (10 credits) - You'll learn about four important human viral pathogens – influenza, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), human papilloma virus (HPV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV). For each virus there will be a set of four lectures covering the topics.

Molecular Virology (10 credits) - You'll be introduced to the concepts of modern virology. Specifically the module will describe the techniques used for the study of viruses, the structure of viruses and the processes of virus replication. It will also consider how we can exploit virus biology for gene expression and gene therapy. It will finish by addressing the question of virus evolution.

Theme 1: Infection and Disease optional modules

20 credits of the below in semester 1

Molecular Virology  (10 credits) - You will be introduced to techniques used for the study of viruses, the structure of viruses and the processes of their replication and evolution. You will also learn about how virus biology can be exploited for gene expression and gene therapy.

Any Faculty of Biological Sciences modules for which pre-requisites are met  (Up to 20 credits)

Discovery Modules  (Up to 20 credits) - As well as the compulsory and optional modules that make up your programme of study, you may be able to choose something different to your main subject as a Discovery Module.

20 credits of the below in semester 2

Introduction to Bioinformatics (10 credits) - You’ll be introduced to the basics of bioinformatics and the application of bioinformatics to many biological questions. The module shows how genomic data is stored and accessed to learn about any characterised gene or protein and how it links to resources on research. The approaches to modern phylogenetics are introduced and how bioinformatics is applied to drug discovery.

Human Genetics (10 credits) - You’ll be introduced to the human genome, chromosomes and heredity with an emphasis on genetic disease and cancer. You will also learn about the impact of human genomics in the context of health and genetic counselling.

Medical Immunology  (10 credits) - You’ll gain detailed knowledge of the immune system, focusing on human health, from infectious and auto-immune diseases to treatment.

Chemotherapy  (10 credits) - The basis of chemotherapy is selective toxicity, the use of agents to kill or suppress the growth of invading cells or infective organisms. This module will help you understand how these agents work. You will learn about the drugs used to treat cancer, bacterial, fungal and viral infections. In addition, immunosuppressant drugs and the chemotherapy of protozoal diseases such as malaria will also be discussed.

Cell Biology of Disease (10 credits) - You will gain a broad understanding of the eukaryotic cell and how it responds to and is altered in infectious and non-infectious diseases. Emphasis is placed on a comprehensive grounding of cellular function by considering different cell types and associated disease states.

Theme 2: Molecular Medicine compulsory modules

Chemotherapy  (10 credits) - The basis of chemotherapy is selective toxicity, the use of agents to kill or suppress the growth of invading cells or infective organisms. This module will help you understand how these agents work. You will learn about the drugs used to treat cancer, bacterial, fungal and viral infections. In addition, immunosuppressant drugs and the chemotherapy of protozoal diseases such as malaria will also be discussed.

Cell Biology of Disease  (10 credits) - You will gain a broad understanding of the eukaryotic cell and how it responds to and is altered in infectious and non-infectious diseases. Emphasis is placed on a comprehensive grounding of cellular function by considering different cell types and associated disease states.

Molecular Virology (10 credits) - You'll be introduced to the concepts of modern virology. Specifically the module will describe the techniques used for the study of viruses, the structure of viruses and the processes of virus replication. It will also consider how we can exploit virus biology for gene expression and gene therapy. It will finish by addressing the question of virus evolution.

Molecular Pharmacology (10 credits) - This module explains how drugs interact with their targets at the molecular level, how they gain affinity and selectivity, and how they may alter the structure and/or properties of their targets. The techniques used to understand the molecular details of drug-target interactions will be introduced in the context of pharmacology and drug discovery.

Theme 2: Molecular Medicine optional modules

20 credits of the below in semester 1

Molecular Virology  (10 credits) - You will be introduced to techniques used for the study of viruses, the structure of viruses and the processes of their replication and evolution. You will also learn about how virus biology can be exploited for gene expression and gene therapy.

Any Faculty of Biological Sciences modules for which pre-requisites are met  (Up to 20 credits)

Discovery modules  (Up to 20 credits) - As well as the compulsory and optional modules that make up your programme of study, you may be able to choose something different to your main subject as a Discovery Module.

20 credits of the below in semester 2

Introduction to Bioinformatics (10 credits) - You’ll be introduced to the basics of bioinformatics and the application of bioinformatics to many biological questions. The module shows how genomic data is stored and accessed to learn about any characterised gene or protein and how it links to resources on research. The approaches to modern phylogenetics are introduced and how bioinformatics is applied to drug discovery.

Human Genetics (10 credits) - You’ll be introduced to the human genome, chromosomes and heredity with an emphasis on genetic disease and cancer. You will also learn about the impact of human genomics in the context of health and genetic counselling.

Medical Immunology  (10 credits) - You will be provided you with detailed knowledge of the immune system, You’ll gain detailed knowledge of the immune system, focusing on human health, from infectious and auto-immune diseases to treatment.

Theme 3: Genome Biology and Disease compulsory modules

Introduction to Bioinformatics (10 credits) - You’ll be introduced to the basics of bioinformatics and the application of bioinformatics to many biological questions. The module shows how genomic data is stored and accessed to learn about any characterised gene or protein and how it links to resources on research. The approaches to modern phylogenetics are introduced and how bioinformatics is applied to drug discovery.

Human Genetics (10 credits) - You’ll be introduced to the human genome, chromosomes and heredity with an emphasis on genetic disease and cancer. You will also learn about the impact of human genomics in the context of health and genetic counselling.

Theme 3: Genome Biology and Disease optional modules

20 credits of the below in semester 1

Molecular Virology  (10 credits) - You will be introduced to techniques used for the study of viruses, the structure of viruses and the processes of their replication and evolution. You will also learn about how virus biology can be exploited for gene expression and gene therapy.

Parasitology (10 credits) - An introduction to parasitology with an emphasis on those that cause diseases of medical and veterinary importance.The main content will be delivered through the use of specific examples. These will include single celled microparasites such as Malaria, Toxoplasma, Trypanosoma, Leishmania, and Giardia and macroparasites such as Schistosoma, Ascaris, Geohelminths, and the Filarial Nematodes.

Human Populations (10 credits) - At the end of this course students will have an understanding of methods for study of distribution and abundance of disease populations; infectious disease and cancer epidemiology; human genetic variation and population structure; the behaviour of genes in human populations; human origins and evolution and the impact of changing populations.

Any Faculty of Biological Sciences modules for which pre-requisites are met  (Up to 20 credits)

Discovery Modules  (Up to 20 credits) - As well as the compulsory and optional modules that make up your programme of study, you may be able to choose something different to your main subject as a Discovery Module.

20 credits of the below in semester 2

Medical Immunology  (10 credits) - You’ll gain detailed knowledge of the immune system, focusing on human health, from infectious and auto-immune diseases to treatment.

Chemotherapy  (10 credits) - The basis of chemotherapy is selective toxicity, the use of agents to kill or suppress the growth of invading cells or infective organisms. This module will help you understand how these agents work. You will learn about the drugs used to treat cancer, bacterial, fungal and viral infections. In addition, immunosuppressant drugs and the chemotherapy of protozoal diseases such as malaria will also be discussed.

Cell Biology of Disease  (10 credits) - You will gain a broad understanding of the eukaryotic cell and how it responds to and is altered in infectious and non-infectious diseases. Emphasis is placed on a comprehensive grounding of cellular function by considering different cell types and associated disease states.

Introduction to Bioinformatics (10 credits) - You’ll be introduced to the basics of bioinformatics and the application of bioinformatics to many biological questions. The module shows how genomic data is stored and accessed to learn about any characterised gene or protein and how it links to resources on research. The approaches to modern phylogenetics are introduced and how bioinformatics is applied to drug discovery.

Human Genetics (10 credits) - You’ll be introduced to the human genome, chromosomes and heredity with an emphasis on genetic disease and cancer. You will also learn about the impact of human genomics in the context of health and genetic counselling.

Medical Microbiology (20 credits) - You will gain a detailed understanding of important human viral and bacterial pathogens and methods of combatting these infections.

Year 3

You will conduct an independent research project under the supervision of one of our world-class scientists applying all the skills you have developed during your degree. This can be laboratory-based, literature-based, or computer-based. Alongside this, you will select the lecture modules that align with your chosen theme and develop skills in the critical review of microbiology research and in the presentation of scientific findings to scientific and non-specialist audiences.

Compulsory modules (all themes)

Molecular and Cellular Biology Research Project (40 credits) - During the final year research project you will have the opportunity to become fully engaged with your research discipline. With guidance from an academic supervisor, you will have the opportunity to develop a research question and then undertake independent research to answer that question. Your outcomes are presented in a report that outlines the context of the research, the approaches taken, conclusions made and future work, including the potential applications of the research findings.

Advanced Skills in the Biological Sciences (20 credits) - In the final year skills module, you will become familiar with up-to-date developments, hypotheses and controversies in molecular biosciences. You will have an opportunity to develop your problem-solving and scientific communication skills, as well as participate in careers workshops.

Infection and Disease theme compulsory modules

Advanced Topics in Microbiology 1 (20 credits) - This is one of our flagship research-led modules. You will become familiar with current research in a range of topics which have previously covered:

• Innate immunity
• Visualising viruses
• The world of viruses
• Emerging infections

However, this module is continuously refreshed with topics that reflect the cutting-edge research we carry out at Leeds.

Advanced Topics in Microbiology 2 (20 credits) - This is one of our flagship research-led modules. You will become familiar with current research in a range of topics which have previously covered:

• Respiratory infections
• Antibiotic action and resistance
• Respiratory infections
• Human-microbe interactions
• Streptomyces, the Antibiotic Makers

However, this module is continuously refreshed with topics that reflect the cutting-edge research we carry out at Leeds.

Infection and Disease theme optional modules

Cancer Biology (20 credits) - You’ll gain a comprehensive knowledge of a range of human cancers, from the molecular basis of cancer to the alterations in cells and tissues in cancers to current therapies.

Advanced Topics in Molecular and Cellular Biology (20 credits) - This is one of our flagship research-led modules. You will become familiar with current research in a range of topics which have previously covered:

• DNA damage
• Stem cells
• Synthetic biology
• How to build an organelle

However, this module is continuously refreshed with topics that reflect the cutting-edge research we carry out at Leeds.

Any year 3 Faculty of Biological Sciences module for which pre-requisites are met (20 credits)

Genome Biology and Disease theme compulsory modules

Advanced Topics in Human Genetics (20 credits) - You will gain a comprehensive insight into human genetics with an emphasis on disease. Specific topics discussed include telomere biology, epigenetics, DNA damage/repair, DNA recombination and genome integrity/stability.

Genome Biology and Disease theme optional modules

Advanced Topics in Microbiology 2 (20 credits) - This is one of our flagship research-led modules. You will become familiar with current research in a range of topics which have previously covered:

• Respiratory infections
• Antibiotic action and resistance
• Respiratory infections
• Human-microbe interactions
• Streptomyces, the Antibiotic Makers

However, this module is continuously refreshed with topics that reflect the cutting-edge research we carry out at Leeds.

Cancer Biology (20 credits) - You’ll gain a comprehensive knowledge of a range of human cancers, from the molecular basis of cancer to the alterations in cells and tissues in cancers to current therapies.

Any year 3 Faculty of Biological Sciences module for which pre-requisites are met (20 credits)

Molecular Medicine theme compulsory modules

Cancer Biology (20 credits) - You’ll gain a comprehensive knowledge of a range of human cancers, from the molecular basis of cancer to the alterations in cells and tissues in cancers to current therapies.

Advanced Topics in Microbiology 2 (20 credits) - This is one of our flagship research-led modules. You will become familiar with current research in a range of topics which have previously covered:

• Respiratory infections
• Antibiotic action and resistance
• Respiratory infections
• Human-microbe interactions
• Streptomyces, the Antibiotic Makers

However, this module is continuously refreshed with topics that reflect the cutting-edge research we carry out at Leeds.

Molecular Medicine theme optional modules

Any year 3 Faculty of Biological Sciences module for which pre-requisites are met (20 credits)

Year 4

Spend two semesters on your extended research project in your supervisor’s laboratory. As you are fully integrated into a research group, you will contribute to internationally competitive research which can result in the first publication of your career. MBiol projects are varied: from molecular characterization of cancer associated signalling pathways and investigation of bacterial outer membrane protein folding, to identification and development of new biopharmaceuticals. You will gain experience in a range of advanced techniques such as CRISPR, advanced DNA/RNA sequencing techniques, structural biology, bioinformatics and many more, depending on the project. Alongside you will study masters level modules from our suite of MSc programmes

Compulsory modules

Project Module (90 credits) - You’ll undertake a two-semester independent research project on an original topic with an appropriate focus for the individual’s host programme. The research will be conducted within one of the Faculty research teams, sometimes in combination with outside agencies.

Research Planning and Communication (15 credits) - You’ll learn how to plan and structure research from an individual experiment to a program of work. Furthermore, you will receive training in communicating scientific research in different formats including literature reviews, scientific research papers and oral presentations.

Optional modules

15 credits from the following

Advanced Biomolecular Techniques (15 credits) - You’ll learn about a range of techniques and technologies which apply to modern biosciences. Exercises will develop data analysis and problem-solving skills, and expose you to current research trends in the biosciences and to leading researchers in the field.

Advanced Immunology (15 credits) - You will be provided with state-of-the-art research-led teaching focusing on four topics fundamental to the essential principles of the immune system. These include Innate Immunity and Adaptive Immunity, which are central to understanding the host's interaction with an environment containing a wide range of potentially pathogenic microorganisms. This is complemented by examination of two examples of immune deviation, in the case of Allergy leading to immunopathology, and in the case of Immune Evasion leading to sophisticated strategies adopted by pathogens to survive in the face of the immune system.

Treatment of Infectious Disease and Cancer (15 credits) - You’ll explore the treatment of human diseases caused by infectious agents (bacteria, viruses, fungi) and cancer by current and emerging approaches, with a focus on describing the mechanistic rationale for chemotherapy, vaccination, gene/RNA therapy, and immunotherapy.

High-Throughput Technologies (15 credits) - You’ll gain an understanding of high-throughput biomolecular data generation and will provide an introduction to data analysis.

Medical Diagnostics (15 credits) - You’ll gain comprehensive understanding of current molecular tests to diagnose major areas of infectious and non-infectious diseases.

Learning and teaching

Our teaching is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials and practicals (laboratory or field settings dependent on your degree). We take a student-centred approach to learning and so our teaching is designed to enable student engagement through active learning approaches that include creative problem-solving, team-work activities and mini-projects. In this way, you are able to apply the theoretical knowledge learnt to practical, real-life contexts. We put a high value on practical teaching and so a core part of your teaching will focus on developing hands-on practical and associated research skills.

Independent study is an important part of University learning and you will be expected to undertake private study. We will support you in becoming independent learners through our teaching approaches and through regular meetings with your personal tutor who is there to advise you academically.

We use a range of digital tools to enhance your learning. Through our Minerva learning management system, you will be able to access our extensive library of online materials, some of it designed specifically to support preparation prior to attending classroom sessions and discuss content with peers and teachers. In the classroom, educators use a variety of interactive digital tools to help you learn through discussion and debate. Laboratory practicals are accompanied by detailed online preparation guides and use of electronic laboratory notebooks to ensure you get the most out of your time and develop workplace skills.

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. We support students in their assessment journey through the provision of practice questions, sessions on how to complete assessment questions and feedback to support learning.

Entry requirements

A-level: 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 any of the following:

• Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

• Cambridge International Project Qualification (Cambridge IPQ)

• Core Maths (if A-level Maths or Further Maths isn't studied as a full A-level)

• AS Maths (if A-level Maths or Further Maths isn't studied as a full A-level)

• Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate

It will 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 a 1 grade drop from the standard offer. For example an A in one of the above qualifications with AAB at A-level (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 as equivalent to C/4 in GCSE English.

• 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: 31 overall with 6,6,5 at higher level including Biology or Chemistry and another science or science-related subject.

  MBiol: 31 overall with 6,6,6 at higher level including Biology or Chemistry and another science or science-related subject.

• 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 School’s 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

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.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2025

Fees

UK: To be confirmed

International: £32,250 (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

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 significant 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:

• Research Scientist at a University
• Research Scientist in industry
• Postgraduate study
• Graduate entry degree in 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 numerous opportunities in addition to volunteering and placements. This includes 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. The fair is an amazing opportunity for you to meet bioscience employers, such as AstraZeneca, Covance, GSK, and Nuffield NHS Ecological consultancies. You will be able to speak to alumni, attend workshops and more.

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

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.