Biological Sciences

The Bachelor of Arts in Biological Sciences at the University of Oxford offers an intensive and comprehensive exploration of the living world, emphasizing both theoretical understanding and practical skills. This programme is designed for students who are passionate about understanding the core principles of biology, from molecular and cellular mechanisms to ecosystems and evolutionary processes. Throughout the course, students delve into a wide range of topics including genetics, biochemistry, physiology, ecology, and biodiversity, providing a balanced and integrative perspective on biological phenomena. The curriculum combines lectures, seminars, practical laboratory work, and field-based studies, enabling students to develop critical thinking, experimental techniques, and data analysis skills essential for scientific research and careers in biology.

The programme encourages an investigative approach, fostering curiosity and the ability to think independently about complex biological issues. Students also have opportunities to specialise in areas such as biomedical sciences, environmental biology, or genetics, tailoring their academic journey to their interests and career aspirations. The Oxford approach emphasizes small-group teaching, enabling close interaction with world-leading academics and researchers. In addition to rigorous coursework, students benefit from access to cutting-edge laboratories, extensive libraries, and unique research resources available across the university.

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped to pursue further studies in medicine, research, environmental management, or related fields, or to enter a wide variety of professional roles where biological knowledge is crucial. The course also promotes understanding of the societal, ethical, and global implications of biological science, preparing students to contribute thoughtfully to scientific challenges facing the world today. The Oxford Biological Sciences programme is not only academically demanding but also rewarding, fostering a lifelong passion for discovery and inquiry into the natural world.

Almost all teaching takes place in the departments of Plant Sciences and Zoology and can be broken down into the following categories:

• Lectures: around ten hours a week
• Practicals: around eight hours a week
• Tutorials: one hour a week, plus preparation time
• Research projects: variable hours in second and third year.

• Attestat o Srednam Obrazovanii (Certificate of Secondary Education) would not be sufficient for candidates to make a competitive application. If your qualification is listed as being insufficient to make a competitive application to Oxford, then you will need to undertake further study if you wish to apply.You could take British A-levels (the British Council may know where you can take A-levels in your country), the International Baccalaureate (IB), or any other qualifications listed as acceptable on this page. The first year of a bachelor's degree from another university could also be an acceptable alternative.
• IELTS: overall score of 7.0 (with at least 7.0 in each of the four components)
• TOEFL (paper-based): overall score of 600 with a Test of Written English score of 5.5
• TOEFL (internet-based): overall score of 110 with component scores of at least: Listening 22, Reading 24, Speaking 25, and Writing 24.
• Cambridge English: Advanced, also known as the Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): grade A if taken before January 2015, or a score of at least 185.
• Cambridge English: Proficiency, also known as the Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): grade B if taken before January 2015, or a score of at least 185.
• English Language GCSE, or O-level: grade B (for IGCSE, please see below)
• International Baccalaureate Standard Level (SL): score of 5 in English (as Language A or B)
• European Baccalaureate: score of 70% in English.

Hill Foundation Scholarship

Russian nationals wishing to study for a second undergraduate degree. 

Palgrave Brown Scholarship

Students must be ordinarily resident in and/or educated in the following countries:

Albania; Armenia; Azerbaijan; Belarus; Bosnia and Herzegovina; Bulgaria; Croatia; Czech Republic; Estonia; Georgia; Hungary; Kazakhstan; Kyrgyz Rep.; Latvia; Lithuania; Macedonia;  Moldova; Montenegro; Poland; Romania; Russia; Serbia; Slovakia; Slovenia; Tajikistan; Turkmenistan; Ukraine; Uzbekistan. 

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Biological Sciences at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum that covers a wide range of biological disciplines, including molecular biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, and physiology. This program is designed for students interested in understanding the fundamental principles of living organisms and the processes that sustain life. Students begin their studies with foundational courses that introduce key concepts and methods in biology, followed by more specialized options in later years, allowing for both breadth and depth of knowledge. The program emphasizes critical thinking, experimental skills, and theoretical understanding, often involving laboratory work, field studies, and research projects. Throughout the course, students benefit from Oxford’s world-renowned faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a collaborative academic environment. The program also offers opportunities for interdisciplinary study, including connections with medicine, environmental science, and biochemistry. In addition to classroom learning, students are encouraged to engage in research internships and fieldwork, which enhance practical skills and scientific inquiry. The culminating component of the program typically involves a research project or dissertation, providing invaluable experience in independent investigation. Graduates of the Biological Sciences program at Oxford often pursue careers in research, healthcare, conservation, education, or continue their studies at postgraduate levels. The program's structure is designed to prepare students not only for professional careers but also for contributing to scientific advancements and understanding global biological challenges, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and disease. Overall, Oxford’s Biological Sciences degree combines an outstanding academic tradition with innovative research opportunities, fostering the next generation of scientists dedicated to understanding and solving some of the vital issues facing our world today.