Biological Sciences

Programme description:
The Biological Sciences undergraduate programme at Queen's University Belfast offers students an in-depth exploration of the fundamental principles of life sciences, covering a wide range of topics including genetics, ecology, microbiology, physiology, and molecular biology. Designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of biological systems, the programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory skills, equipping students with the tools necessary for careers in research, healthcare, environmental management, education, and biotechnology. Throughout the course, students will have the opportunity to engage in hands-on experiments, fieldwork, and research projects, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and scientific communication skills. The curriculum is carefully structured to encourage exploration of current issues such as biodiversity conservation, climate change, and human health, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to contribute to advances in science and society. With access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, students are supported by expert faculty actively involved in cutting-edge scientific research. The programme also offers pathways for specialisation in areas like marine biology, neuroscience, or plant biology, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and career aspirations. Additionally, the programme includes opportunities for work placements and study abroad experiences, enhancing employability and global perspective. By combining rigorous academic training with practical experience, the Biological Sciences degree at Queen's University Belfast aims to develop talented, innovative, and socially responsible scientists who can make a positive impact in their chosen fields. Graduates of the programme are well-positioned to pursue postgraduate study or enter a diverse range of careers in scientific research, environmental consultancy, healthcare, education, and beyond.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 4160 Year (EEA)
• EUR 13380 Year (Non-EEA)

England, Scotland and Wales £9,000; EU £3,575; International: £11,500

• English

Course Content

Stage 1

Biological Diversity
Environmental Biology
Genetics and Molecular Biology
Introductory Skills for Biosciences
Micro-organisms
and normally Biochemistry

This module combination provides students, undecided as to their final specialist degree area, with considerable flexibility at later stages. Students enrolled in the Biological Sciences degree pathway can move into a specialist biological degree option (Environmental Biology, Marine Biology, Zoology), or vice versa, on entry to Stage 2

Stage 2

This pathway gives students a good choice of module combinations and ensures that the student retains a breadth of study of living organisms at a number of different levels of organisation. The modules introduce a wide range of up-to-date biological techniques including genetic manipulation, electron microscopy, physiological studies of living organisms and modern approaches to ecology and evolution.

Stage 3

During the final year, students in Biological Sciences take a two-module research project in one of the following subject areas:

• Biochemistry
• Environmental Biology
• Genetics
• Marine Ecology
• Microbiology
• Molecular Biology
• Zoology

The research project is carried out under the supervision of one or more members of the academic staff and generally involves practical work carried out in the field and/or laboratory including at Queen's University Marine Laboratory. Four taught modules are chosen so that module combinations either embrace a relatively broad range of these areas or permit a degree of specialisation within the subject. In addition to subject knowledge, modules aim to develop skills in critical, independent thought and management and decision-making.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• A-level BBB including Biology or Double Award Applied Science + GCSE Chemistry or Double Award Science + GCSE Mathematics.
  Note: It would be an advantage to have studied Chemistry beyond GCSE level.
• Irish Leaving Certificate B2B2B2B2CC/B2B2B2B2B2 including Higher Level grade B2 in Biology + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade C in Chemistry and Mathematics.Note: It would be an advantage to have studied Higher Level Chemistry.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than Queen's University Belfast.

Accreditation

The most generally appropriate professional body for graduate biologists is the Society of Biology.