Biological Science

Study options

Award

Key facts

UCAS code:
C100
UCAS code:
C104
UCAS code:
C101
UCAS code:
C102
Location:
Stoke-on-Trent campus
Location:
Stoke-on-Trent campus
Location:
Stoke-on-Trent College
Location:
Stoke-on-Trent campus
Study option:
Full-time, Stoke-on-Trent campus
Study option:
Full-time, Stoke-on-Trent campus, with a placement year
Study option:
Full-time, with a foundation year at Stoke-on-Trent College
Study option:
Full-time, Stoke-on-Trent campus
Duration:
3 Years
Duration:
4 Years
Duration:
4 Years
Duration:
4 Years
Start date:
13 September 2021
School:
School of Life Sciences and Education

Learning environment

Study in our purpose-built £30m Science Centre

Specialist Pathways

Find your passion and become an expert in a specialist branch of biological science

Industry accreditation

Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology

Our versatile Biological Science degree will help you understand and examine the living world around you.

There has never been a better time to position yourself as a bioscientist by studying on our biological science degree. Recent breakthroughs have given biologists insights and tools for the investigation of pressing questions like never before. Whatever area of the biological sciences you are interested in, be it genetics and genomics, medicine development or ecological interactions and sustainability - this degree has the scope and flexibility to support your development.

This degree can be completed in a number of different ways, you can either study biological science as a broad degree, or branch off into one of our specialist pathways during your degree.

You have the first year of your degree (full-time) to decide whether your interest lies in a particular field, or whether the broad knowledge of the subject will better benefit your future career. If you do have a more specialist interest, this course also has designated learning pathways in your second and third years to allow you to focus on areas including Ecology and Environmental Management, Genomics, Pharmacology, and Pre-Med. The best thing about our learning pathways is that you can wait until second year to decide if you wish to specialise.  Whichever route you take through your biological science degree, upon completion, you will be ideally placed for graduate employment or postgraduate study.

If you would like to study for an advanced qualification, we offer an integrated Masters MSci course over four years.

If you do not meet our direct entry requirements for degree level study, then a BSc (Hons) with a Foundation Year is available.  You’ll study your first year at Stoke-on-Trent College and on successful completion join the BSc (Hons) course at the Stoke-on-Trent university campus.  High levels of tutor support and guidance will prepare you for degree level study. The foundation year for this course has a long successful track record in providing a smooth transition onto our BSc (Hons) Biological Science degree. This route is useful if you have only studied sciences up to GCSE level or have had a break in your studies

This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology following an independent and rigorous assessment. Accredited degree programmes contain a solid foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.

There has never been a better time to position yourself as a bioscientist by studying on our biological science degree. Recent breakthroughs have given biologists insights and tools for the investigation of pressing questions like never before. Whatever area of the biological sciences you are interested in, be it genetics and genomics, medicine development or ecological interactions and sustainability - this degree has the scope and flexibility to support your development.

This degree can be completed in a number of different ways, you can either study biological science as a broad degree, or branch off into one of our specialist pathways during your degree.

You have the first year of your degree (full-time) to decide whether your interest lies in a particular field, or whether the broad knowledge of the subject will better benefit your future career. If you do have a more specialist interest, this course also has designated learning pathways in your second and third years to allow you to focus on areas including Ecology and Environmental Management, Genomics, Pharmacology, and Pre-Med. The best thing about our learning pathways is that you can wait until second year to decide if you wish to specialise.  Whichever route you take through your biological science degree, upon completion, you will be ideally placed for graduate employment or postgraduate study.

If you would like to study for an advanced qualification, we offer an integrated Masters MSci course over four years.

If you do not meet our direct entry requirements for degree level study, then a BSc (Hons) with a Foundation Year is available.  You’ll study your first year at Stoke-on-Trent College and on successful completion join the BSc (Hons) course at the Stoke-on-Trent university campus.  High levels of tutor support and guidance will prepare you for degree level study. The foundation year for this course has a long successful track record in providing a smooth transition onto our BSc (Hons) Biological Science degree. This route is useful if you have only studied sciences up to GCSE level or have had a break in your studies

This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology following an independent and rigorous assessment. Accredited degree programmes contain a solid foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.

There has never been a better time to position yourself as a bioscientist by studying on our biological science degree. Recent breakthroughs have given biologists insights and tools for the investigation of pressing questions like never before. Whatever area of the biological sciences you are interested in, be it genetics and genomics, medicine development or ecological interactions and sustainability - this degree has the scope and flexibility to support your development.

This degree can be completed in a number of different ways, you can either study biological science as a broad degree, or branch off into one of our specialist pathways during your degree.

You have the first year of your degree (full-time) to decide whether your interest lies in a particular field, or whether the broad knowledge of the subject will better benefit your future career. If you do have a more specialist interest, this course also has designated learning pathways in your second and third years to allow you to focus on areas including Ecology and Environmental Management, Genomics, Pharmacology, and Pre-Med. The best thing about our learning pathways is that you can wait until second year to decide if you wish to specialise.  Whichever route you take through your biological science degree, upon completion, you will be ideally placed for graduate employment or postgraduate study.

If you would like to study for an advanced qualification, we offer an integrated Masters MSci course over four years.

If you do not meet our direct entry requirements for degree level study, then a BSc (Hons) with a Foundation Year is available.  You’ll study your first year at Stoke-on-Trent College and on successful completion join the BSc (Hons) course at the Stoke-on-Trent university campus.  High levels of tutor support and guidance will prepare you for degree level study. The foundation year for this course has a long successful track record in providing a smooth transition onto our BSc (Hons) Biological Science degree. This route is useful if you have only studied sciences up to GCSE level or have had a break in your studies

This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology following an independent and rigorous assessment. Accredited degree programmes contain a solid foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.

There has never been a better time to position yourself as a bioscientist by studying on our biological science degree. Recent breakthroughs have given biologists insights and tools for the investigation of pressing questions like never before. Whatever area of the biological sciences you are interested in, be it genetics and genomics, medicine development or ecological interactions and sustainability - this degree has the scope and flexibility to support your development.

This degree can be completed in a number of different ways, you can either study biological science as a broad degree, or branch off into one of our specialist pathways during your degree.

You have the first year of your degree (full-time) to decide whether your interest lies in a particular field, or whether the broad knowledge of the subject will better benefit your future career. If you do have a more specialist interest, this course also has designated learning pathways in your second and third years to allow you to focus on areas including Ecology and Environmental Management, Genomics, Pharmacology, and Pre-Med. The best thing about our learning pathways is that you can wait until second year to decide if you wish to specialise.  Whichever route you take through your biological science degree, upon completion, you will be ideally placed for graduate employment or postgraduate study.

If you would like to study for an advanced qualification, we offer an integrated Masters MSci course over four years.

If you do not meet our direct entry requirements for degree level study, then a BSc (Hons) with a Foundation Year is available.  You’ll study your first year at Stoke-on-Trent College and on successful completion join the BSc (Hons) course at the Stoke-on-Trent university campus.  High levels of tutor support and guidance will prepare you for degree level study. The foundation year for this course has a long successful track record in providing a smooth transition onto our BSc (Hons) Biological Science degree. This route is useful if you have only studied sciences up to GCSE level or have had a break in your studies

This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology following an independent and rigorous assessment. Accredited degree programmes contain a solid foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.

On successful completion of study, we will issue the following award: BSc (Hons) Biological Science. If you complete one of the pathways it will be added to your degree certificate

On successful completion of study, we will issue the following award: BSc (Hons) Biological Science

On successful completion of study, we will issue the following award: BSc (Hons) Biological Science

On successful completion of study, we will issue the following award: MSci Biological Science

Work placements

The Biological Sciences Department works with local, regional and national employers alongside international university partners to provide students with placement and work experience opportunities both in the UK and abroad. Previous years’ locations have included Spain, The Netherlands, Finland and Turkey with repeat visits planned for 2019/20.

Course content

In Year 1, you’ll study modules that introduce you to the breadth of biology. You’ll cover exciting areas of current Biosciences, from molecules to cells, organisms and their environment. Skills for employment and ‘learning through research’ are core themes, together with the development of your professional scientific identity.

In your second year, you’ll gain a more in-depth knowledge of key biological principles and begin to focus on areas of applied biology.

We offer a broad range of topics covering both theoretical and practical aspects of biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, human biology and animal biology and conservation.

In Year 2 you’ll also have the option to choose one of the four pathways:

  • Ecology and Environmental Management
  • Genomics
  • Pharmacology
  • Pre-Med

These pathways each have a carefully designed programme of study via a specific range of modules that will ensure that you meet the requirements of employers and also prepare you for postgraduate study. 

In Year 3, you’ll carry out an in-depth, applied practical investigation that will lead to a scientific article-style dissertation.

 

In Year 1, you’ll study modules that introduce you to the breadth of biology. You’ll cover exciting areas of current Biosciences, from molecules to cells, organisms and their environment. Skills for employment and ‘learning through research’ are core themes, together with the development of your professional scientific identity.

In your second year, you’ll gain a more in-depth knowledge of key biological principles and begin to focus on areas of applied biology.

We offer a broad range of topics covering both theoretical and practical aspects of biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, human biology and animal biology and conservation.

In Year 2 you’ll also have the option to choose one of the four pathways:

  • Ecology and Environmental Management
  • Genomics
  • Pharmacology
  • Pre-Med

These pathways each have a carefully designed programme of study via a specific range of modules that will ensure that you meet the requirements of employers and also prepare you for postgraduate study. 

In Year 3, you’ll carry out an in-depth, applied practical investigation that will lead to a scientific article-style dissertation.

 

In Year 1, you’ll study modules that introduce you to the breadth of biology. You’ll cover exciting areas of current Biosciences, from molecules to cells, organisms and their environment. Skills for employment and ‘learning through research’ are core themes, together with the development of your professional scientific identity.

In your second year, you’ll gain a more in-depth knowledge of key biological principles and begin to focus on areas of applied biology.

We offer a broad range of topics covering both theoretical and practical aspects of biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, human biology and animal biology and conservation.

In Year 2 you’ll also have the option to choose one of the four pathways:

  • Ecology and Environmental Management
  • Genomics
  • Pharmacology
  • Pre-Med

These pathways each have a carefully designed programme of study via a specific range of modules that will ensure that you meet the requirements of employers and also prepare you for postgraduate study. 

In Year 3, you’ll carry out an in-depth, applied practical investigation that will lead to a scientific article-style dissertation.

 

In Year 1, you’ll study modules that introduce you to the breadth of biology. You’ll cover exciting areas of current Biosciences, from molecules to cells, organisms and their environment. Skills for employment and ‘learning through research’ are core themes, together with the development of your professional scientific identity.

In your second year, you’ll gain a more in-depth knowledge of key biological principles and begin to focus on areas of applied biology.

We offer a broad range of topics covering both theoretical and practical aspects of biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, human biology and animal biology and conservation.

In Year 2 you’ll also have the option to choose one of the four pathways:

  • Ecology and Environmental Management
  • Genomics
  • Pharmacology
  • Pre-Med

These pathways each have a carefully designed programme of study via a specific range of modules that will ensure that you meet the requirements of employers and also prepare you for postgraduate study. 

In Year 3, you’ll carry out an in-depth, applied practical investigation that will lead to a scientific article-style dissertation.

 

Academic year

The course operates on a modular basis that provides flexibility and choice. Typically the majority of modules are 20 academic credits with a smaller number of 40 credit modules. Each credit taken equates to a total study time of around 10 hours. Total study time includes scheduled teaching, independent study and assessment activity. Full-time students take modules worth 60 credits per semester, with part-time students taking proportionately fewer credits per semester. All students take a total of 120 credits per level and 360 credits for the degree as a whole. Your overall grade for the course and your degree classification are based on the marks obtained for modules taken at levels 5 and 6.  The full-time course has one start point in September.

The course operates on a modular basis that provides flexibility and choice. Typically the majority of modules are 20 academic credits with a smaller number of 40 credit modules. Each credit taken equates to a total study time of around 10 hours. Total study time includes scheduled teaching, independent study and assessment activity. Full-time students take modules worth 60 credits per semester, with part-time students taking proportionately fewer credits per semester. All students take a total of 120 credits per level and 360 credits for the degree as a whole. Your overall grade for the course and your degree classification are based on the marks obtained for modules taken at levels 5 and 6.  The full-time course has one start point in September.

The course operates on a modular basis that provides flexibility and choice. Typically the majority of modules are 20 academic credits with a smaller number of 40 credit modules. Each credit taken equates to a total study time of around 10 hours. Total study time includes scheduled teaching, independent study and assessment activity. Full-time students take modules worth 60 credits per semester, with part-time students taking proportionately fewer credits per semester. All students take a total of 120 credits per level and 360 credits for the degree as a whole. Your overall grade for the course and your degree classification are based on the marks obtained for modules taken at levels 5 and 6.  The full-time course has one start point in September.

The course operates on a modular basis that provides flexibility and choice. Typically the majority of modules are 20 academic credits with a smaller number of 40 credit modules. Each credit taken equates to a total study time of around 10 hours. Total study time includes scheduled teaching, independent study and assessment activity. Full-time students take modules worth 60 credits per semester, with part-time students taking proportionately fewer credits per semester. All students take a total of 120 credits per level and 360 credits for the degree as a whole. Your overall grade for the course and your degree classification are based on the marks obtained for modules taken at levels 5 and 6.  The full-time course has one start point in September.

Professional body accreditation

Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for the purpose of meeting, in part, the academic and experience requirement of membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol).

Royal Society of Biology logo

Professional body accreditation

Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for the purpose of meeting, in part, the academic and experience requirement of membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol).

Royal Society of Biology logo

Professional body accreditation

Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for the purpose of meeting, in part, the academic and experience requirement of membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol).

Royal Society of Biology logo
BSc (Hons) Biological Science - Dr Angela Priestman

BSc (Hons) Biological Science - Dr Angela Priestman

Video

Dr Angela Priestman discusses the new pathway structure of our BSc (Hons) Biological Science degree and how will benefit students.

Modules

The tables provide an indicative list of the modules that make up the course for the current academic year. Each module is worth a specified number of credits. Our teaching is informed by research, and modules change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline. We aim to ensure that all modules run as scheduled. If for any reason a module cannot be run we will advise you as soon as possible and will provide guidance on selecting an appropriate alternative module.

Modules

The tables provide an indicative list of the modules that make up the course for the current academic year. Each module is worth a specified number of credits. Our teaching is informed by research, and modules change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline. We aim to ensure that all modules run as scheduled. If for any reason a module cannot be run we will advise you as soon as possible and will provide guidance on selecting an appropriate alternative module.

Modules

The tables provide an indicative list of the modules that make up the course for the current academic year. Each module is worth a specified number of credits. Our teaching is informed by research, and modules change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline. We aim to ensure that all modules run as scheduled. If for any reason a module cannot be run we will advise you as soon as possible and will provide guidance on selecting an appropriate alternative module.

Year 1 compulsory modules
Academic And Digital Skills 20 credits
Applied Science 20 credits
Biology 20 credits
Chemistry 20 credits
Communicating Science Project 20 credits
Maths And Data Handling 20 credits

Modules

The tables provide an indicative list of the modules that make up the course for the current academic year. Each module is worth a specified number of credits. Our teaching is informed by research, and modules change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline. We aim to ensure that all modules run as scheduled. If for any reason a module cannot be run we will advise you as soon as possible and will provide guidance on selecting an appropriate alternative module.

Entry requirements

  • Typical UCAS Offer: 112 points
  • A levels: BBC, to include Biology at Grade C or above
  • BTEC: DMM Applied Science/Animal Management

We welcome applicants from a diversity of backgrounds and all applicants are individually assessed.

  • Typical UCAS Offer: 112 points
  • A levels: BBC, to include Biology at Grade C or above
  • BTEC: DMM Applied Science/Animal Management

We welcome applicants from a diversity of backgrounds and all applicants are individually assessed.

  • Typical UCAS Offer: 48 points
  • A levels: A, DD, EEE
  • BTEC: PPP
  • Typical UCAS Offer: 120 points 
  • A levels: ABC
  • BTEC: National Diploma DDM

We understand that you might have experienced a challenging run up to higher education and may have not met the entry requirements as listed. If this is the case don’t worry, contact us and our team of expert advisors can guide you through the next stages of application, or help you find the perfect course for your needs.

BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science students' trip to Barcelona

BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science students' trip to Barcelona

Video

Find out what happened what our BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science students visited a number of universities in Barcelona.

For equivalent entry requirements in your home country, please see the information on our country pages.

Choose your country

Check our entry and English language requirements for your country.

GO

Facilities

Human Physiology Suite

This facility gives us the ability to measure the effects of different procedures on human physiological parameters.

Cell Culture Facility

A specialist environment for the culture and study of both cancerous and non-cancerous human and mammalian cell lines.

Careers

Throughout the award students are provided with opportunities in order to prepare for the wider world when they finish the award and look for employment.

Our Biological Science degree provides many career routes for graduates. It offers a particularly useful breadth of knowledge for those who aspire to teaching the subject, with many graduates pursuing teaching careers.

Recent graduates have secured roles as environmental auditors with the Royal Air Force, mental health workers with Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust and bioinformatics managers.

Possible career routes:

  • Ecology consultancy
  • Wildlife management
  • Habitat management
  • Sustainability
  • Agroecology
  • Drug development/regulation
  • Research
  • Pharmacology
  • Treatment development
  • Clinical trials
  • Science policy
  • Personalised medicine
  • Cancer genomics
  • Genetic counselling
  • Disease outbreak investigation
  • Clinical bioinformatics
  • Cancer research
  • Genomic science 
Staffordshire University Nature Reserve

Staffordshire University Nature Reserve

Video

Join Dr Dave Skingsley (aka the Bug Botherer) on a crisp autumn morning for a tour of Staffordshire University's nature reserve.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, workshops, small group and practical sessions. Small group sessions enable you to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups of around 16-18 students. In addition, you will have timetabled meetings with your personal tutor at least twice a year. You will be taught in first-class learning spaces throughout your course. Many of our courses are accredited or recognised by professional, statutory or regulatory bodies.

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, workshops, small group and practical sessions. Small group sessions enable you to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups of around 16-18 students. In addition, you will have timetabled meetings with your personal tutor at least twice a year. You will be taught in first-class learning spaces throughout your course. Many of our courses are accredited or recognised by professional, statutory or regulatory bodies.

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, workshops, small group and practical sessions. Small group sessions enable you to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups of around 16-18 students. In addition, you will have timetabled meetings with your personal tutor at least twice a year. You will be taught in first-class learning spaces throughout your course. Many of our courses are accredited or recognised by professional, statutory or regulatory bodies.

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, workshops, small group and practical sessions. Small group sessions enable you to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups of around 16-18 students. In addition, you will have timetabled meetings with your personal tutor at least twice a year. You will be taught in first-class learning spaces throughout your course. Many of our courses are accredited or recognised by professional, statutory or regulatory bodies.

Assessment

Your course will provide you with opportunities to test your understanding of your subject informally before you complete the formal assessments that count towards your final mark. Each module normally includes practice or ‘formative’ assessments, for which you receive feedback from your tutor. Practice assessments are developmental and any grades you receive for them do not count towards your module mark. There is a formal or ‘summative’ assessment at the end of each module. This includes a range of coursework assessments, such as essays, reports, portfolios, performance, presentations, final year, independent project and written examinations. The grades from formal assessments count towards your module mark.

Your course will provide you with opportunities to test your understanding of your subject informally before you complete the formal assessments that count towards your final mark. Each module normally includes practice or ‘formative’ assessments, for which you receive feedback from your tutor. Practice assessments are developmental and any grades you receive for them do not count towards your module mark. There is a formal or ‘summative’ assessment at the end of each module. This includes a range of coursework assessments, such as essays, reports, portfolios, performance, presentations, final year, independent project and written examinations. The grades from formal assessments count towards your module mark.

Your course will provide you with opportunities to test your understanding of your subject informally before you complete the formal assessments that count towards your final mark. Each module normally includes practice or ‘formative’ assessments, for which you receive feedback from your tutor. Practice assessments are developmental and any grades you receive for them do not count towards your module mark. There is a formal or ‘summative’ assessment at the end of each module. This includes a range of coursework assessments, such as essays, reports, portfolios, performance, presentations, final year, independent project and written examinations. The grades from formal assessments count towards your module mark.

Your course will provide you with opportunities to test your understanding of your subject informally before you complete the formal assessments that count towards your final mark. Each module normally includes practice or ‘formative’ assessments, for which you receive feedback from your tutor. Practice assessments are developmental and any grades you receive for them do not count towards your module mark. There is a formal or ‘summative’ assessment at the end of each module. This includes a range of coursework assessments, such as essays, reports, portfolios, performance, presentations, final year, independent project and written examinations. The grades from formal assessments count towards your module mark.

Learning support

In addition to the excellent support you will receive from your course teaching team, our central Academic Skills team provides group and one-to-one help to support your learning in a number of areas. These include study skills (including reading, note-taking and presentation skills); written English (including punctuation and grammatical accuracy); academic writing (including how to reference); research skills; critical thinking and understanding arguments; and revision, assessment and examination skills (including time management).

Additional support

Our AccessAbility Services support students with additional needs such as sensory impairment, or learning difficulties such as dyslexia.

Feedback

Examination feedback may take a variety of formats. However, as a minimum, generic feedback will be made available to all students who take written examinations.

Examination feedback may take a variety of formats. However, as a minimum, generic feedback will be made available to all students who take written examinations.

Examination feedback may take a variety of formats. However, as a minimum, generic feedback will be made available to all students who take written examinations.

Examination feedback may take a variety of formats. However, as a minimum, generic feedback will be made available to all students who take written examinations.

Biological and Biomedical Science

Biological and Biomedical Science

Video

Find our more about the wide range of Biological and Biomedical Science undergraduate degrees available at Staffordshire University.

Your study time will consist of class contact hours, self-directed learning, assessment and placements where appropriate. Your actual contact hours will depend on the subject area, on the option modules you select and professional body requirements. 

 

Your study time will consist of class contact hours, self-directed learning, assessment and placements where appropriate. Your actual contact hours will depend on the subject area, on the option modules you select and professional body requirements. 

 

Your study time will consist of class contact hours, self-directed learning, assessment and placements where appropriate. Your actual contact hours will depend on the subject area, on the option modules you select and professional body requirements. 

 

Your study time will consist of class contact hours, self-directed learning, assessment and placements where appropriate. Your actual contact hours will depend on the subject area, on the option modules you select and professional body requirements. 

 

Year 1

33% of time in lectures, seminars or similar
67% of time in independent study
0% of time in placements

Year 2

27% of time in lectures, seminars or similar
63% of time in independent study
9% of time in placements

Year 3

18% of time in lectures, seminars or similar
82% of time in independent study
0% of time in placements

Independent learning

When not attending lectures, seminars, laboratory or other timetabled sessions, you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. Typically, this will involve utilising a range of digital resources including our virtual learning environment; reading journals, articles and books; working on individual and group projects; undertaking research in the library; preparing coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for examinations. Your independent learning will be supported by a range of excellent facilities. These include the library, open access computer facilities, informal learning zones, and a range of specialist teaching areas.

When not attending lectures, seminars, laboratory or other timetabled sessions, you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. Typically, this will involve utilising a range of digital resources including our virtual learning environment; reading journals, articles and books; working on individual and group projects; undertaking research in the library; preparing coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for examinations. Your independent learning will be supported by a range of excellent facilities. These include the library, open access computer facilities, informal learning zones, and a range of specialist teaching areas.

When not attending lectures, seminars, laboratory or other timetabled sessions, you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. Typically, this will involve utilising a range of digital resources including our virtual learning environment; reading journals, articles and books; working on individual and group projects; undertaking research in the library; preparing coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for examinations. Your independent learning will be supported by a range of excellent facilities. These include the library, open access computer facilities, informal learning zones, and a range of specialist teaching areas.

When not attending lectures, seminars, laboratory or other timetabled sessions, you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. Typically, this will involve utilising a range of digital resources including our virtual learning environment; reading journals, articles and books; working on individual and group projects; undertaking research in the library; preparing coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for examinations. Your independent learning will be supported by a range of excellent facilities. These include the library, open access computer facilities, informal learning zones, and a range of specialist teaching areas.

Year 1

16% practical exams
48% coursework
35% written exams

Year 2

34% practical exams
33% coursework
34% written exams

Year 3

14% practical exams
61% coursework
25% written exams

Staff

You will be taught by a teaching team whose expertise and knowledge are closely matched to the content of the modules on the course. The team includes senior academics and professional practitioners with industry experience. Postgraduate research students who have undertaken teaching training may also contribute to the teaching of seminars under the supervision of the module leader. Our teaching is research-informed and 80% of our full-time staff in Life Sciences and Education are Fellows of the Higher Education Academy.

Dr Dave Skingsley

Senior Lecturer

Dave's expertise include Natural History with a particular focus on Entomology and Malacology, and Invertebrate Mucus and FTIR spectroscopy

Dave's profile

Fees

For the course starting on 13 September 2021 the tuition fees are:

Study option UK / Channel Islands International
Full-time £9,250 per year of study £14,000 per year of study

For the course starting on 13 September 2021 the tuition fees are:

Study option UK / Channel Islands International
Full-time £9,250 per year of study £14,000 per year of study

For the course starting on 13 September 2021 the tuition fees are:

Study option UK / Channel Islands
Full-time £5,950 for your first year subsequent years will be charged at the University standard rate

For the course starting on 13 September 2021 the tuition fees are:

Study option UK / Channel Islands International
Full-time £9,250 per year of study £14,000 per year of study

UK and Channel Island students: This tuition fee is agreed subject to UK government policy and parliamentary regulation. If the UK government passes appropriate legislation, the fee for subsequent years of study may increase in each academic year. But this increase will not exceed the rate of inflation as measured by RPIX**. Any change in fees will apply to both new and continuing students. The University will notify students of any change as early as possible. Further information about fee changes would be posted on the University’s website once this becomes available.

**RPIX is a measure of inflation equivalent to all the items in the Retail Price Index (RPI) excluding mortgage interest payments.

International students: Tuition fees will remain the same for each year of your course, as long as you complete it in the normal time-frame (i.e. no repeat years or breaks in study).

BSc (Hons) Biological Science: Choose your pathway

BSc (Hons) Biological Science: Choose your pathway

Video

In Year 2 of our BSc (Hons) Biological Science degree, students can choose to specialise in one of four designated learning pathways.

Included in the fees:

 

  • Loan of subject related requirement where required for modules 
  • Heavily discounted tuition fees during the (optional) placement year 
  • One lab coat provided for duration of course

 

  • Loan of subject related requirement where required for modules 
  • Heavily discounted tuition fees during the (optional) placement year 
  • One lab coat provided for duration of course

 

  • Loan of subject related requirement where required for modules 
  • Heavily discounted tuition fees during the (optional) placement year 
  • One lab coat provided for duration of course

 

  • Loan of subject related requirement where required for modules 
  • Heavily discounted tuition fees during the (optional) placement year 
  • One lab coat provided for duration of course
Not included in the fees:

 

  • The estimated cost of text books over three years. Text books are available from the library, but some students chose to purchase their own copies.
  • Printing
  • Travel costs to and from placements. We will have available placements within travel distance from the campus, or within proximity of your address.
  • Clothing suitable for placements and facilities
  • Any optional field trips.

 

  • The estimated cost of text books over three years. Text books are available from the library, but some students chose to purchase their own copies.
  • Printing
  • Travel costs to and from placements. We will have available placements within travel distance from the campus, or within proximity of your address.
  • Clothing suitable for placements and facilities
  • Any optional field trips.

 

  • The estimated cost of text books over three years. Text books are available from the library, but some students chose to purchase their own copies.
  • Printing
  • Travel costs to and from placements. We will have available placements within travel distance from the campus, or within proximity of your address.
  • Clothing suitable for placements and facilities
  • Any optional field trips.

 

  • The estimated cost of text books over three years. Text books are available from the library, but some students chose to purchase their own copies.
  • Printing
  • Travel costs to and from placements. We will have available placements within travel distance from the campus, or within proximity of your address.
  • Clothing suitable for placements and facilities
  • Any optional field trips.
Accommodation and living costs

Accommodation and living costs are not included in our fees. 

For more information on accommodation and living costs, please see: Accommodation

Sources of financial support

If you receive funding from Student Finance you may be eligible to apply for additional benefits. Details can be obtained by visiting: www.gov.uk

Scholarships and additional funding

As an undergraduate student at Staffordshire, you may be eligible for additional financial support through one of our scholarships and bursaries. You can visit our funding page to find out more and check your eligibility.

Scholarships and additional funding

As an undergraduate student at Staffordshire, you may be eligible for additional financial support through one of our scholarships and bursaries. You can visit our funding page to find out more and check your eligibility.

Scholarships and additional funding

As an undergraduate student at Staffordshire, you may be eligible for additional financial support through one of our scholarships and bursaries. You can visit our funding page to find out more and check your eligibility.

Scholarships and additional funding

As an undergraduate student at Staffordshire, you may be eligible for additional financial support through one of our scholarships and bursaries. You can visit our funding page to find out more and check your eligibility.

Our students

Currently I am on the Pre-Med pathway and I deliberately chose that pathway for me because I really enjoy learning about the subjects in relation to medicine as well as the possible advent of me and my degree being able to help other people in the future.

The best thing about my pathway is that it makes you very aware of all the systems and functions currently at play in your body and in the world. I have learned to appreciate the delicate balance between all the different systems we encompass and understanding the mechanisms behind them.

Britta Kuusik

BSc (Hons) Biological Science - Pre-med pathway

For me, the large range of modules and pathways available is one of the best aspects of Biological Science. It allows you to create a degree tailored to your specific scientific interests, or to explore new fields that you may have not have previously considered. Having a wide variety of choices allows you to take a more specialised path or to study more broadly depending on your interests or career goals.  

Becky Snow

BSc (Hons) Biological Science

Staffordshire University is one of the only universities that I've found in the UK which offers Pre-Med. 

The staff are really helpful and supportive - if you don't know anything, just ask. The staff are willing to help you regardless of the problem.

The lab is such a useful facility. I've been able to learn many things and gain so much experience. 

When I graduate from Staffs, I want to go into medical school to pursue my dream of becoming a doctor. 

Phoom Lertsinsongserm

BSc (Hons) Biological Science

I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Staffordshire University. I loved studying Biology and getting that crucial practical experience in the lab which proved essential for my career.

As a mature student I was anxious about returning to full time education, but the lecturers were incredibly supportive and made me believe in myself.

After graduating I was able to pursue a career in science and I love my job working in a veterinary diagnostic laboratory. I can't recommend this university enough, so if you are thinking about higher education then go for it!

Emma Stanfield

Biological Sciences graduate

I really enjoyed my course, particularly the amount of free reign my degree allowed me to take regarding module choice. I liked the assessment styles of some modules as they gave you a rather grand question which allowed you to tailor your answer to suit your passions and interests.

Going to Africa was the biggest moment of my life, and I couldn’t have done it without the help and support of the University.

Dominic Moule

MSci Biological Science

To this day doing my undergraduate degree at Staffordshire University was the greatest three years of my life. It has changed me in more ways than even I can comprehend.

All of the lecturers are so supportive and really do want the best for you. It's not like other universities where you are just known by your student number, they want you to matter and they know a lot about every student, which made my experience extremely personal.

The degree was fantastic and it has led me on to achieve great things. I just qualified as a Teacher of Science at Secondary School but I hope one day I will find my way back to Staffordshire University as I feel inspired to become a lecturer after meeting such a wonderful team of people.

Jade Parks

Biological Sciences graduate

After a series of difficult life situations I decided I wanted to change my life but wasn’t sure how. I went to an open day at Staffordshire university and was hooked.

The lecturers were amazing, always have time for you and you feel part of the family. So much so I'm lucky enough to call my core lecturers my friends. Staffordshire University excels at allowing students with additional needs to reach their potential, by removing barriers to HE and always supporting you to achieve your best!

I left Staffordshire University a different person and went on to become a teacher and now a senior teacher who specialises in SEN and behaviour! Staffordshire empowered me so much, I've decided to come back and do my MSc and hopefully PhD!

Gianni Frary

Biological Sciences graduate

I completed a placement in a local secondary school which enabled me to gain experience to go onto the teacher training course that I am now on. Although we only had to complete this for two weeks, I stayed for around six months, working around my days in university.

I plan to complete my NQT year next academic year and teach in a local secondary school, which have already offered me a job.

I made so many great friends at Staffs and I wish I could do my time here again! 

Emma Gilbert

Secondary Biology PGCE

Changing career to study a Biological Sciences degree at Staffordshire University has without doubt been the best decision I have ever made. The modules on my course were very well organised and full of challenging yet engaging content, including vital hands-on experience in the lab and out in the field.

I am incredibly grateful to all my lecturers and other staff that have supported me throughout my time there, all of whom are highly passionate, caring, and incredibly knowledgeable in their subject areas. As a Staffs Uni graduate, I have found that the skills I have gained have been directly transferable to a professional setting. This meant that I hit the ground running after graduating, being offered work within the ecology sector. 

Alex Fitzroy

Biological Science graduate

With the help support and guidance of the team at Staffs Uni I achieved more than I expected. Having completed my HND in Applied Biology, I then pursued and gained my BSc in the same subject. I used this as a springboard to enter a career in Pathology at the University Hospital of North Midlands. I’m happy to say that Staffs Uni supported me further by allowing me to participate in a post graduate modular framework course, which allowed me to covert my degree to the equivalent of a BSc in Biomedical Science.

I’m still at the UHNM to this day, thanks to the solid foundation the University gave me. It built my confidence, skill set, knowledge and understanding. I will be forever grateful for the opportunities given to me and those that opened up for me because of my time there. 

Kieran Bolton

Biological Sciences graduate

The great content in the modules, along with the high quality of academic staff and interesting laboratory sessions, helped deliver a very rounded experience which prepared me for a number of roles. I’m grateful for this experience as no doubt without this; I would not be where I am today.

Ashay Patel

Sales Executive, Randox Biosciences

Apply

Location Award Study option Start date
Stoke-on-Trent campus BSc (Hons) Full-time, Stoke-on-Trent campus 13 September 2021 Apply now

Rules and regulations

If you are offered a place at Staffordshire University, your offer will be subject to our rules, regulations and enrolment conditions, which may vary from time to time.

Students of Staffordshire University enter into a contract with us and are bound by these rules and regulations, which are subject to change. For more information, please see: University Policies and Regulations.

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