To be eligible for admission to the BSc (Hons) Biology course, applicants must meet the following entry requirements:

• 64 UCAS Tariff points which must include one of the following:
  • A level: a relevant Science subject, such as, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
  • BTEC National: Extended Diploma in Applied Science.
  • A level and BTEC National: Diploma/Extended Certificate in Applied Science and an A Level in a relevant Science subject, such as, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
  • International Baccalaureate: 24 points overall including Higher Level Science.
  • Access to Higher Education Diploma: Science.
  • T Level: Science (Laboratory Sciences) at grade Pass (with D or E on the Core).

• For undergraduate courses, candidates are typically required to have one of the following:

  • Passes in two distinct subjects at GCE Advanced Level; or
  • A pass in one subject at GCE Advanced Level plus:
    • (a) Passes in two distinct subjects at GCE Advanced Subsidiary Level, or
    • (b) A Vocational A-Level Single Award, or
    • (c) Two Vocational A-Level Part Awards; or
  • A Vocational A-Level Double Award; or
  • A Vocational A-Level Single Award plus:
    • (a) Two Vocational A-Level Part Awards, or
    • (b) Passes in two distinct subjects at GCE Advanced Subsidiary Level; or
  • A BTEC National Certificate or Diploma; or
  • A completed T Level award; or
  • A Scottish Certificate of Education with:
    • (a) Passes in five subjects, including at least three at Higher grade, or
    • (b) Passes in four subjects, all at Higher grade or New Higher grade; or
  • The full Diploma of the International Baccalaureate; or
  • An Irish Leaving Certificate with passes in four subjects at Grade C at the Higher level.

• Additional Requirements: For some courses, applicants must also achieve a GCSE Grade C/4 or above in specific subjects, such as Mathematics and English, or an equivalent qualification.

• Interview: All applicants must pass an academic interview to assess their suitability for the course.

The BSc (Hons) Biology course adopts a student-centred approach to teaching, incorporating a combination of lectures, seminars, laboratory work, and field trips. Practical sessions are a key component of the course, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. Laboratory work is supplemented with the use of advanced technology and research tools, preparing students for the challenges of modern biological sciences.

Throughout the course, students will be assessed via a range of methods designed to test their understanding, analytical skills, and ability to apply biological concepts. Assessments include laboratory reports, project work, presentations, and essays. These evaluations ensure that students develop a deep understanding of the subject matter, while honing skills that are essential in a professional scientific environment.

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Biology course have a wide range of career opportunities available to them across various industries. Here are 10 potential career paths for biology graduates:

1. Research Scientist: Conduct scientific research in laboratories, academic institutions, or research organisations to expand knowledge in fields such as genetics, microbiology, or biochemistry.

2. Healthcare Scientist: Work in medical laboratories or hospitals, conducting diagnostic tests, and contributing to medical advancements through research and analysis.

3. Environmental Consultant: Advise organisations on how to reduce their environmental impact, manage natural resources, and comply with environmental regulations.

4. Ecologist: Study ecosystems and wildlife, focusing on environmental conservation, climate change, and habitat preservation.

5. Pharmacologist: Research and develop pharmaceutical products, ensuring their safety and effectiveness for medical use.

6. Biotechnologist: Use biological organisms or systems to develop products and solutions in various industries, including agriculture, healthcare, and manufacturing.

7. Marine Biologist: Study marine ecosystems and organisms, conducting research to protect marine biodiversity and promote sustainable fishing practices.

8. Forensic Scientist: Apply biological knowledge to solve crimes, analysing biological evidence such as blood, DNA, and hair found at crime scenes.

9. Biological Data Analyst: Use statistical tools and computational methods to analyse biological data, assisting in research and development within scientific organisations.

10. Science Educator: Teach biology at secondary or tertiary education levels, inspiring the next generation of scientists while delivering curriculum-based content.

Applicants from the UK and EU must submit the following documents to be considered for admission:

1. CV with 3+ Years of Work Experience (If No Qualifications): In some cases, a CV detailing at least three years of relevant work experience may be required if the applicant does not have formal academic qualifications.

2. Passport/BRP: Proof of identity and nationality is essential. A passport or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) must be submitted.

3. Proof of Address: A document confirming your current residential address, such as a utility bill or bank statement.

4. Qualifications: Official certificates or transcripts of all qualifications attained, including A-Level, GCSE, or equivalent qualifications.

5. EU Settlement Status (Share Code): For EU applicants, a Share Code may be required to verify their immigration status under the EU Settlement Scheme.

6. Personal Statement (Above 300 Words): A well-written personal statement that outlines the applicant's reasons for choosing the course and their future career aspirations.

7. Work Reference Letter (If Applicable): If required by the university, a reference letter from a past employer or organisation attesting to the applicant's work experience.

8. Share Code (For Non-UK Citizens): Non-UK citizens must provide a Share Code to confirm their immigration status.

Student Finance England (SFE) offers invaluable financial support to eligible students. This may cover tuition fees, maintenance loans for living costs, and additional support for students with children or adult dependants. To be eligible:

1. Eligibility Criteria for Student Finance England (SFE):
   - Must be a UK national or have a settled status.
   - Should be ordinarily resident in England.
   - Chosen university and course must be recognised by SFE.
   - Previous study and age may affect eligibility.
   - Must be in the UK for a minimum of 3 years to access the fund.

2. Eligible Categories:
   - UK & EU nationals (including pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme).
   - Refugees and their family members.
   - Individuals with humanitarian protection status and their family members.
   - Migrant workers or frontier workers from the EU.
   - Stateless persons and their family members.
   - Holders of UK visas under the Ukraine Family Scheme.

3. Age Requirements:
   - No upper age limit for Tuition Fee Loans or grants.
   - Limited funding for Maintenance Loans available for individuals aged 60 or over under specific conditions:
     - Must be 60 or over on the first day of the first academic year of the course.
     - Studying full-time.
     - Course started on or after 1 August 2016.

4. Funding Amount:
   - The amount of funding depends on household income.
   - Maintenance Loans for individuals aged 60 or over may have limited availability based on specific criteria.

5. Additional Information:
   - Criteria and regulations can be subject to change.
   - Always verify specific criteria and regulations directly with SFE or consult their official website for the latest information.

For comprehensive and up-to-date details, it is advisable to reach out directly to Student Finance England or visit their official website.