Molecular Biology

The Molecular Biology degree program at the University of Dundee offers students the opportunity to explore the fundamental principles that underpin living organisms at the molecular level. Designed for students with a keen interest in the biological sciences, this program provides a comprehensive understanding of the structure, function, and interactions of biological molecules essential to life processes. Throughout the course, students will develop core skills in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication, preparing them for careers in research, healthcare, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and related industries.

The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with practical laboratory sessions, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in modern molecular biology techniques such as DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, sequencing, and bioinformatics. In addition to core modules covering genetics, cell biology, biochemistry, and microbiology, students will have the opportunity to specialize in areas like genomics, proteomics, and molecular diagnostics through optional modules.

The program emphasizes research skills and critical thinking, encouraging students to engage in independent projects and collaborative work that mirror real-world scientific investigations. Taught by experts in the field, the course is supported by state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and resources to ensure students are well-equipped to meet the challenges of contemporary molecular biology research.

Graduates of this program will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for employment in biomedical research, healthcare, environmental sciences, or further postgraduate study. The University of Dundee's strong links with local and international industries provide excellent networking and career development opportunities. Upon completion, students will be prepared to contribute to advances in health, agriculture, and industry through innovative applications of molecular biology.

Detailed Course Facts

The fees you pay will, in most cases, depend on your current country of residence.

The fee shown is annual, and may be subject to an increase each year.

Fee category

Fees for students starting September 2015

Scottish students

£1,820 per year of study (for Sept 2014 entry). Fees for September 2015 will be confirmed by the Scottish Government in early 2015.

Rest of UK students

£9,000 per year, for a maximum of 3 years, even if you are studying a four year degree. See our scholarships for rest of UK applicants.

EU students

£1,820 per year of study (for Sept 2014 entry). Fees for September 2015 will be confirmed by the Scottish Government in early 2015.

Overseas students (non-EU)

£15,950 per year of study. See our scholarships for international applicants.

• English

Course Content

This course is taught by staff based in the College of Life Sciences

There are regular meetings of staff-student liaison committees. While this provides a forum for formal contact, there is also opportunity for informal contact between you and academic staff, whom you will find friendly and approachable.

Typical Degree Programme

Levels 1 and 2

All Life Sciences degree programmes share common core modules at Level 1 that provide a general introduction to the life sciences through an integrated programme of lectures, tutorials, practical work and field excursions.

Please refer to the Biological/Biomedical Sciences degree structure and overview webpage for details of the common curriculum in Levels 1 and 2.

Level 3

At Level 3 you specialise much more in biochemistry, molecular genetics and molecular biology, and you choose additional subjects that interest you to study alongside your main subject. You will develop your knowledge and skills in the following subject areas:

• DNA structure
• replication and repair
• transcription
• genome organisation
• regulation of protein function
• molecular genetic and proteomic analysis
• the molecular basis of inherited diseases
• cell structure
• the cytoskeleton
• cell adhesion
• nuclear architecture
• immunology
• signal transduction
• the regulation of cell growth and division

Summer work placements

Many students take advantage of opportunities for summer work placements, normally between Levels 3 and 4, which are available as externally-funded competitive placements, or as voluntary laboratory work.

Level 4

Your studies at Level 4 will be at the level of current research in your chosen subject area.

Advanced study of topics in biochemistry, molecular genetics and molecular biology with additional options chosen from related subject areas such as microbiology and developmental biology. The range of topics that is currently available includes:

• the cell cycle
• eukaryotic gene expression
• bioinformatics
• genomics & beyond
• cell signalling
• protein structure & function
• single crystal X-ray diffraction
• protein secretion & targeting
• cytoskeletal function
• the molecular biology of infection and immunity
• immunotechnology
• antibiotic resistance
• virus molecular biology
• bacterial membrane biology
• drug discovery for tropical diseases
• molecular oncology

Your studies will involve extensive use of scientific literature and the opportunity to attend a regular programme of seminars given by invited speakers from Britain and abroad.

• Research project - several formats are available including laboratory-based research under the supervision of a leading scientist, computer modelling, multimedia teaching packages, literature and electronic database review.

How you will be assessed

All modules are assessed by a combination of in-course and end-of-course procedures. Regular in-course assessments (e.g. practical reports, computer-based exercises, essays and data processing exercises) provide feedback on your progress and help you prepare for end-of-module examinations.

On-line assignments are used extensively at Levels 1 and 2, with access via a PC on or off campus. Peer assessment operates in many team projects.

Requirements

See Course Homepage for Full Details

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 Dundee.

The BSc in Molecular Biology at the University of Dundee offers students an in-depth understanding of the molecular mechanisms that underpin biological processes. This undergraduate programme is designed to provide a strong foundation in the core principles of molecular biology, including genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, and microbiology. Students will have the opportunity to develop practical laboratory skills through practical classes and research projects, preparing them for careers in research, healthcare, biotechnology, and related fields.

The programme's curriculum is structured to cover essential topics such as DNA replication, gene expression, molecular genetics, and bioinformatics. Students will also explore advanced areas like genomics, proteomics, and systems biology, reflecting the latest developments in molecular sciences. The University of Dundee is renowned for its strong focus on research-led teaching, which means students benefit from expertise of active researchers in the field. The programme also emphasizes the importance of laboratory work, with the majority of modules including hands-on practical sessions that enhance experimental skills and industry-relevant techniques.

Students enrolled in the programme will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories equipped with modern instrumentation. The course includes opportunities for work placements and collaborative projects, allowing students to gain real-world experience and build professional networks. Additionally, the programme prepares students for postgraduate study or careers in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, healthcare diagnostics, and academic research.

The academic staff involved in the Molecular Biology programme are engaged in cutting-edge research, contributing to scientific advancements and providing mentorship for students. The university's strong links with industry partners offer pathways for internships and employment opportunities after graduation. Overall, the programme aims to develop competent, innovative, and employable graduates equipped to meet the demands of rapidly evolving molecular biology fields.