Biology
A comprehensive guide to studying Biology at university.
- - "I find my biology course interesting and fairly challenging. I like how you learn something new everyday!" - Callum, 1st year Biology student, Bath
- - "Biology is the one subject that gives you the most holistic view of the earth" - Josh, 3rd year Biology student, Oxford
- - "I like how everyone on my biology course has a real ‘work hard, play hard’ attitude. Our days are often pretty busy but we always make time to socialise outside of labs and lectures" - Anna, 2nd year Biology student, Cambridge
- - "I’ve really enjoyed getting to grips with real research in my final year. It’s given me a great flavour of what life as a research scientist is like" - Sarah, 3rd year Biology student, Warwick
- - "It’s very hard to balance work and a social life. Most of the modules have an unnecessary amount of content so it is quite hard just to keep up with the lecture material" - Matt, 1st year BA Natural Sciences (Biological), Cambridge
- - "Academically, the course is very intense" - Josh, 3rd year Biology student, Oxford
- - "The time spent in labs was quite a shock for me coming into university - often you end up spending the whole afternoon in the lab!" - Callum, 1st year Biology student, Bath
Studying Biology at a UK university offers a comprehensive understanding of life and living organisms, from molecular biology to ecology. The curriculum typically combines lectures, lab work, and field studies. In the first year, you'll cover fundamental topics such as genetics, biochemistry, and physiology. As you progress, you'll have opportunities to specialize in areas like microbiology, marine biology, or environmental science.
Assessment methods include exams, practical reports, and research projects. Most universities offer state-of-the-art labs and facilities, providing hands-on experience with the latest scientific techniques and equipment. Field trips and placements are common, offering real-world experience and enhancing employability.
Biology graduates can pursue careers in research, healthcare, conservation, and biotechnology, or continue their studies with a master's or PhD. With a focus on developing analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, a Biology degree from a UK university is a gateway to a diverse range of career opportunities.
Biosciences graduates enjoy excellent career prospects.
Many graduates continue to work in life-sciences, to pursue a PhD and a career in scientific research. Others work in related fields, such as pharmaceuticals 💊, biotechnology 🧬, biomedical engineering, food technology, agriculture 🌽, disease, and environmental management 🌲.
Top employment destinations include:
- The Francis Crick Institute, The Babraham institute, John Innes centre (+ any university!) - Scientific Research
- Illumina - Biotechnology
- GSK, AstraZeneca - Pharmaceuticals
However, a Biology degree does not limit your career to academia or scientific research! A Biology degree equips students with a wide range of skills which are transferable to many different career paths. For example, the analytical skills you gain are valuable for careers in finance, consulting and law 🏛️