Biological Sciences (with a Year Abroad)

The BSc Biological Sciences with a Year Abroad at the University of East Anglia offers students a comprehensive and immersive exploration of the living world, from molecules and cells to entire ecosystems. This programme is designed to provide a strong foundation in key biological principles while offering the invaluable opportunity to spend an academic year studying overseas. Throughout the course, students will develop critical scientific skills, including experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication, preparing them for a variety of careers in research, healthcare, environmental management, and education.

The programme begins with foundational modules in biology, chemistry, and mathematics, ensuring students acquire the essential knowledge needed for advanced study. As they progress, students can choose from a diverse array of optional modules, allowing them to tailor their degree to align with personal interests and career aspirations. Topics covered include genetics, microbiology, ecology, physiology, and biochemistry, providing a broad understanding of biological systems at different levels of complexity.

A distinctive feature of this degree is the Year Abroad, which typically takes place in a partner university within Europe or beyond. During this year, students immerse themselves in a different academic environment, enhance their intercultural competence, and often gain practical laboratory or fieldwork experience. The overseas year not only enriches personal development but also boosts employability by demonstrating adaptability and a global perspective.

Throughout their studies, students benefit from access to state-of-the-art laboratories, research facilities, and expert academic staff who are active contributors to their fields. The university's strong links with industry and research institutions mean students can engage with real-world challenges and participate in innovative projects. The programme also emphasizes sustainability, conservation, and ethical considerations in biological research and practice.

By the end of their degree, graduates will have gained a thorough understanding of biological sciences, practical research experience, and the skills necessary to pursue postgraduate study or enter a competitive job market. The BSc Biological Sciences with a Year Abroad at the University of East Anglia prepares students to become informed, skilled scientists capable of making meaningful contributions to society’s understanding and stewardship of the natural world.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 10560 Year (EEA)
• EUR 17480 Year (Non-EEA)

UK/EU £9,000; International £14,900

• English

Course Content

Year 1

You will receive an introduction to biological sciences and essential scientific methods and techniques, as well as a relevant grounding in mathematics, statistics, physics and chemistry which will be valuable if you do not have A levels in these subjects.

Year 2

At the end of the first year you may, if you wish, transfer to one of our specialised degree programmes (eg Biology with Science Communication or Cell Biology), or you may wish to remain on this programme which allows you to choose almost any of the second year modules offered by the School. You also have the option of selecting a module from a different School within the Faculty of Science, or a language module, to complement your studies, subject to the approval of the School. Please note that the Year Abroad and Year in Industry options are taken between years 2 and 3 (see pages 8 and 9 for more details).

Year 3

At the end of the second year, you can again transfer to a specialised programme or remain on the biological sciences degree, choosing almost any of the wide range of third year modules on offer. You can also take either the Research Project, for which you carry out experimental work in a research laboratory within the School, in one of the affiliated Institutes or in the field, or Analyses in Biology, an analytical or theoretical project alternative to the laboratory or field based projects

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6 TOEFL iBT® test : 78

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

Requirements

• A Level: ABB to include Biology
• International Baccalaureate: 32 points including 3 HL Subjects at Grade 5 including Biology
• Scottish Highers: AABBB including Biology and one other science subject.
• Scottish Advanced Highers: ABB including Biology.
• Other Sciences at Advanced Higher level would confer an advantage
• Irish Leaving Certificate: AABBBB at higher level including Biology and at least two other science subjects
• Access Course: See below
• HND: Please contact university for further information
• European Baccalaureate:75% overall, including 7.5 in Biology

Students for whom English is a Foreign language

We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading). Recognised English Language qualifications include:

• IELTS: 6. overall (minimum 5.5 in any component)
• TOEFL: Internet-based score of 78 overall (minimum 20 in Speaking component, 17 in Writing and Listening components and 18 in Reading components.
• PTE: 55 overall (minimum 51 in any component).

If you do not meet the University's entry requirements, our INTO Language Learning Centre offers a range of university preparation courses to help you develop the high level of academic and English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.

Interviews

The majority of candidates will not be called for an interview. However, for some students an interview will be requested. These are normally quite informal and generally cover topics such as your current studies, reasons for choosing the course and your personal interests and extra-curricular activities.

Gap Year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year, believing that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry and may wish to contact the appropriate Admissions Office directly to discuss this further.

Special Entry Requirements

A2-level Biology is required for this course. In addition to this, applicants are asked to have two other A2-level subjects. General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.
GCSE Grade B in Mathematics and Grade C in English Language is required.

Intakes

The School's annual intake is in September of each year.

Alternative Qualifications

We encourage you to apply if you have alternative qualifications equivalent to our stated entry requirement. Please contact us for further information.

Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3, including 12 Level 3 credits in Biology.

GCSE Offer

Students are required to have GCSE Mathematics at Grade B and English Language at Grade C.

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 University of East Anglia.

The BSc Biological Sciences with a Year Abroad at the University of East Anglia is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the biological principles that underpin all life forms on Earth. This course is ideal for students who are passionate about exploring the diversity of the biological world, from molecular biology to ecology, and who wish to gain international experience by spending a year studying abroad. The program typically spans four years, with the third year dedicated to studying at a partner university in a different country, which allows students to immerse themselves in a different academic environment and culture, enhancing their global perspective and intercultural skills. Throughout the course, students have the opportunity to undertake a variety of modules covering areas such as genetics, ecology, physiology, molecular biology, and evolution, supported by state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities. The curriculum is designed to develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing graduates for careers in research, conservation, healthcare, or further study in postgraduate programs. The program also emphasizes the development of transferable skills such as critical thinking, scientific communication, and teamwork. Students benefit from personalized academic support and mentoring, as well as opportunities to engage in research projects and fieldwork. The Year Abroad is a key component, where students may spend time studying or conducting research at partner institutions across Europe, North America, or other regions. This experience broadens their understanding of biological sciences on an international scale and enhances employability by demonstrating adaptability and cross-cultural competence. The university’s strong links with industry and research institutions provide valuable networking opportunities and pathways into employment. Graduates from this program often pursue careers in environmental consultancy, biotech companies, healthcare sectors, conservation organizations, or continue with postgraduate research. The university ensures that all students receive quality education delivered by expert academic staff committed to student success. Overall, the BSc Biological Sciences with a Year Abroad is a challenging and rewarding course that offers students a chance to develop as scientific professionals ready to meet the demands of a globalized world.