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Standard Level Qualifications
Overview
The Biology with a Sandwich Year BSc at the University of Kent offers students an in-depth understanding of biological sciences combined with practical work experience. This programme is designed to develop your knowledge of key biological concepts, from molecular biology and genetics to ecology and evolution, while providing a year of industrial or research placement between the second and final years. The Sandwich Year enhances employability and allows students to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings.
Programme Structure
This four-year programme begins with foundational modules in biology, chemistry, and mathematics, ensuring that students acquire essential scientific skills. In the first year, students explore fundamental topics such as cell biology, biochemistry, and organismal biology, establishing a broad understanding of life sciences. The second year introduces more specialised modules including genetics, microbiology, and physiology, alongside research skills and laboratory techniques.
The third year is dedicated to a comprehensive placement, where students work with industry partners, research institutions, or in clinical settings. This year provides valuable hands-on experience, networking opportunities, and insights into professional practice. Students can undertake placements across various sectors, such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, conservation, or biotechnology.
Finally, the fourth year focuses on advanced modules, research projects, and dissertation work, allowing students to specialise in areas of interest such as molecular biology, environmental science, or neurobiology. The programme culminates in a substantial research project, preparing students for careers in research or further postgraduate study.
Teaching and Assessment
Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, laboratory classes, and fieldwork, fostering practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. Assessment is through a combination of written examinations, coursework, laboratory reports, presentations, and dissertation projects. The programme encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent research skills essential for professional success.
Careers and Further Study
Graduates of the Biology with a Sandwich Year programme are equipped for diverse careers across research, healthcare, environmental management, conservation, and the biotech industry. The programme also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study, including MSc and PhD opportunities.
Entry Requirements
Typical entry requirements include A-levels in science subjects, with a strong preference for grades in biology and chemistry. BTEC or equivalent qualifications are accepted, and applications from mature students are welcomed. Specific entry criteria may vary; please consult the university’s admissions guidelines.
Why Study at the University of Kent?
The University of Kent offers state-of-the-art laboratories, excellent research facilities, and strong links with industry and research institutions. Our supportive academic staff, combined with practical placement opportunities, ensure that students gain both knowledge and real-world experience, preparing them for dynamic careers in biological sciences.
Detailed Course Facts
Application deadline January 15 Tuition fee- GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
- GBP 14860 Year (Non-EEA)
Start date September 2015 Credits (ECTS) 240 ECTS
Duration full-time 48 months Languages Take an IELTS test
- English
Course Content
The course structure below gives a flavour of the modules that will be available to you and provides details of the content of this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation. Most programmes will require you to study a combination of compulsory and optional modules, you may also have the option to take wild modules from other programmes offered by the University in order that you may customise your programme and explore other subject areas of interest to you or that may further enhance your employability.
Stage 1
Possible modules may include:
BI300 - Introduction to Biochemistry
BI301 - Enzymes and Introduction to Metabolism
BI302 - Molecular and Cellular Biology I
BI307 - Human Physiology and Disease
BI308 - Skills for Bioscientists
BI321 - Biological Chemistry A
BI323 - Biodiversity
BI324 - Genetics and Evolution
Stage 2
Possible modules may include:
BI501 - Gene Expression and Its Control
BI503 - Cell Biology
BI505 - Infection and Immunity
BI513 - Physiology
BI532 - Skills For Bioscientists 2
BI546 - Animal Form and Function
BI547 - Plant Physiology and Adaptation
BI548 - Microbial Physiology and Genetics I
Year in industry
Biology offers the possibility of taking a one-year placement away from the University between Stages 2 and 3. Sandwich placements provide an excellent opportunity to gain relevant work experience in industry in the UK or abroad. You are paid by your employer and also produce an independent research project.
On a sandwich placement you acquire additional skills and gain first-hand experience of a particular type of work, which will help to inform your career decisions at the end of your degree. Students have worked at companies including: GlaxoSmithKline, MedImmune, Lonza, BASF, Eli Lilly and Bayer Crop Science.
Visit the School of Biosciences web pages for more information about the sandwich option, including comments from past students.
Possible modules may include:
BI797 - Sandwich Year Assessment
Stage 3
Possible modules may include:
BI628 - Microbial Phsiology and Genetics II
BI610 - The Cell Cycle
BI600 - Biology Project
CB612 - New Enterprise Startup
SE581 - Biological Anthropology: The Human Animal
SE582 - Comparative Perspectives in Primate Biology
BI638 - Bioinformatics and Genomics
BI639 - Frontiers in Oncology
BI640 - Magnetic Resonance in Biosciences and Medicine
BI642 - Cancer Biology
BI643 - Neuroscience
BI602 - Cellular Communication I
BI604 - Biological Membranes
BI606 - Pathogens & Pathogenicity
BI620 - Virology
BI622 - Advanced Immunology
BI626 - Integrated Endocrinology and Metabolism
English Language Requirements
IELTS band : 6.5
To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to
take an IELTS test.Requirements
Home/EU students
The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications, typical requirements are listed below. Students offering alternative qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for further advice. It is not possible to offer places to all students who meet this typical offer/minimum requirement.
Qualification Typical offer/minimum requirement- A level:ABB including Biology or Human Biology grade B
- GCSE:Mathematics grade C
- Access to HE Diploma:The University of Kent will not necessarily make conditional offers to all access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. If an offer is made candidates will be required to pass the Access to Higher Education Diploma with 30 level 3 credits at distinction and 15 at merit, and to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits in particular subjects at distinction or merit grade.
- BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC National Diploma):The university will consider applicants holding BTEC National Diploma and Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF;OCR) on a case by case basis. Typical offers when made are Distinction, Distinction, Distinction.
- International Baccalaureate:34 points overall or 16 points at HL including Biology 5 at HL or 6 at SL and Mathematics 4 at HL or SL
International students
The University receives applications from over 140 different nationalities and consequently will consider applications from prospective students offering a wide range of international qualifications. Our International Development Office will be happy to advise prospective students on entry requirements.Work Experience
No work experience is required.
Want to improve your English level for admission?
Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.
- ✔️ Flexible study schedule
- ✔️ Experienced teachers
- ✔️ Certificate upon completion
📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.
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 Kent.
Funding
Kent offers generous financial support schemes to assist eligible undergraduate students during their studies. Our 2015 financial support package includes a £6,000 cash bursary spread over the duration of your course. For Ts&Cs and to find out more, visit our funding page.
General scholarships
Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.
The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence
At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created the Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence, which will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of AAA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications as specified on our funding pages. Please note that details of the scholarship for 2015 entry have not yet been finalised and are subject to change.
The BSc (Hons) Biology degree with a Sandwich Year at the University of Kent offers students a comprehensive study of biological sciences with an emphasis on applying knowledge in real-world contexts through a dedicated placement year. This program is designed to equip students with a solid foundation in core biological principles, including cellular biology, genetics, ecology, evolution, and physiology, alongside specialized modules tailored to current developments in biological research and industry practices.
The inclusion of a Sandwich Year, typically undertaken after the second year, provides students with valuable work experience in various sectors such as environmental consultancy, biotechnology firms, research laboratories, conservation organizations, or healthcare companies. This industrial placement enhances employability by allowing students to develop practical skills, industry contacts, and a clearer understanding of potential career paths. The Sandwich Year is often supported by the university’s dedicated careers service, which assists in securing placements and preparing for professional work environments.
Throughout the degree, students benefit from access to state-of-the-art laboratories, extensive fieldwork, and opportunities for independent research. The program aims to foster analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills vital for scientific careers. The curriculum is regularly reviewed to incorporate the latest scientific advancements and industry needs, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for both further academic study and entry into the workforce.
The University of Kent emphasizes a student-centered approach to learning, encouraging collaboration, innovation, and interdisciplinary approaches to biological questions. Graduates of this program can pursue diverse careers in research, environmental management, healthcare, education, or continue with postgraduate studies such as MSc or PhD programs. Additionally, the program’s strong focus on practical experience and employability makes it a popular choice among students aiming to build a competitive profile in the biological sciences sector.
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