BSc Biological Sciences
About this course
Biological sciences is the study of life in all its forms, from single-celled organisms and the molecular machinery that drives them through to the extraordinary diversity of animal, plant, and fungal life that has evolved over billions of years. It encompasses genetics, ecology, evolution, cell biology, physiology, and environmental biology, providing a broad and rigorous scientific foundation for understanding the living world and the processes that shape it. A degree in biological sciences is both intellectually demanding and deeply relevant: the biological challenges of the twenty-first century, from pandemic preparedness and antibiotic resistance to biodiversity loss and food security, require scientists with broad foundational knowledge and the ability to think across disciplinary boundaries. At the University of Plymouth, this three-year, full-time programme includes a foundation year for those building their scientific foundations before progressing to degree-level study, a sandwich placement year for extended professional experience, a year abroad, and work placement throughout the course. You will develop both practical laboratory and field skills and the theoretical understanding needed to work as a scientist, learning to gather, analyse, and interpret biological data and to evaluate evidence critically. The programme's strong emphasis on fieldwork and practical experience reflects the reality that biological science is a discipline learned as much in the field and laboratory as in the lecture theatre. A typical entry tariff of 120 points reflects an accessible admissions threshold for a scientifically rigorous programme. Graduates from biological sciences programmes go on to careers in environmental consultancy, conservation, the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, public health, food science, clinical laboratory services, research institutions, and education. Many graduates continue to postgraduate study in areas such as ecology, genetics, microbiology, conservation biology, or environmental management, developing specialist expertise for careers in research or professional practice.
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