TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Biosciences

Advance your foundation degree in biology with this broad biosciences course covering microbiology, genetics, health and more. Conduct a specialised research project and prepare for careers in human health, biotechnology, or related fields.

Tailored progression for foundation graduates

Designed specifically for students advancing from a foundation degree, this course offers a seamless transition with a dedicated research project module that supports your academic growth and personal interests.

Hands-on, real-word learning

Gain practical experience through lab and fieldwork, plus an optional work placement year that provides valuable industry insights and boosts your employability in biosciences sectors.

Career-ready skills

Explore up to four in-depth topics – from medical genetics to environmental microbiology – while developing versatile skills for careers in animal and human health, plant biotechnology or ecotoxicology.
BSc (Hons) Biosciences
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About

Ready to build on your foundation degree in biology? This dynamic biosciences course offers a broad and practical education across key areas like microbiology, genetics, ecotoxicology, plant sciences and science communication. 
You'll deepen your expertise through hands-on lab and fieldwork, explore your interests with a tailored research project and benefit from strong personal tutor support. 
With the option of a work placement year before starting the course, and the chance to specialise in up to four advanced topics, you'll graduate equipped for a wide range of careers in human health, biotechnology or environmental biology.
Student working in a lab wearing protective coat
 
 

This course is for you if...

you aim to pursue a career in human health, biotechnology or environmental biology
DNA with microscope
you are eager to tackle real problems, from global change biology to the effects of ecotoxicology
Petri dish showing bacteria
you seek hands-on laboratory experience to develop practical skills
Beaker and test tube or vial
you are interested in gaining industry experience while you learn
Hand holding molecular structure

Details

Optional placement year

You'll have the opportunity to undertake a professional work placement before starting the course, gaining hands-on experience in a biosciences setting. This optional module allows you to apply your biological knowledge in real-world contexts, develop industry-relevant techniques, and build valuable skills that enhance your employability across the biosciences sector.
Ecotoxicology lab research photo

Core modules

APIE303
Biology:Placement

This module provides an opportunity for professional training of at least 26 weeks duration with an approved company or host organisation between Stage 2 and 4. While on placement, students will gain work experience related to their degree programme, be able to apply their biological knowledge and expertise, and learn further skills and relevant techniques.

Course overview

You'll carry out an in-depth research project specifically designed for the needs of incoming foundation degree students, using a range of practical skills, data gathering and interpretation, scientific literature synthesis and communication skills. You'll also be able to develop your knowledge and practical experience from a range of optional modules.
Biomedical student looking through microscope

Core modules

PROJ302
SoBMS Project 40 credits

This module provides an opportunity to undertake a research project on an individually developed topic and experience the entire process of scholarly research: from problem formulation, through the design and execution of an investigation, analysis of results and presentation of outcomes. It will develop skills in independent working and self-awareness in relation to personal, professional and academic development.

75% Coursework

25% Practicals

Optional modules

BIOL301
Plant Biotechnology 20 credits

Despite the increasing importance of 'food security' in a changing world, plant biotechnology has had much negative publicity. This module will give students an appreciation of the science and also the ethical and social issues that surround the subject and show why these techniques are so important to secure our food supply.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

BIOL308
Applied Conservation Biology 20 credits

Focuses on application of biological theory to successfully managing populations in wild and captive environments. The emphasis is on how theory feeds into and informs working practice. Along with advancing their theoretical knowledge, students develop knowledge of the major approaches, analytical tools, techniques and software that individuals working in the public and private conservation sectors apply in practice.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

BIOL310
Global Change Biology 20 credits

This module provides the student with an in-depth overview of the likely consequences of climate change for plant and animal species biology and distribution over the coming century. From this starting point we will show how an understanding of climate change biology is vital for conservation theory and practice over coming decades.

70% Examinations

30% Coursework

BIOL311
Ecotoxicology 20 credits

This module provides a detailed analysis of the concepts and principles of ecotoxicology, with an emphasis on evaluation of ecotoxicological techniques and methods for assessment of impacts of pollutants on the aquatic environment.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

BIOL320
Animal Nutrition 20 credits

This module examines the principles and practice of animal nutrition for a range of animal species. It provides an understanding of feds, feed evaluation, diet formulation and feeding. The module also examines the impact of ingredient, physical, manufacturing and legal constraints on the production of diets.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

BIOL321
Pharmacology and Natural Products 20 credits

Natural products (NPs) from diverse sources are used by humans including many compounds that affect organisms at cellular and molecular levels. This module will give you an understanding of the generalised mechanism of action of such compounds, their synthesis and an overview of specific compounds, their actions and uses from an array of biological sources and in a number of clinical and industrial contexts.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

BIOL322
Aquatic Microbial Ecology 20 credits

This module covers methodologies and current research in aquatic microbial ecology. You will study microbial life from all three domains of life - the Eukarya, Bacteria and Archaea as well as viruses. You will cover freshwater (lakes, rivers), marine (polar ice caps, neuston, benthic plain, hydrothermal vents) and hypersaline (playas, soda lakes) ecosystems as well as flora and fauna of these ecosystems as habitats.

50% Coursework

50% Practicals

BIOL323
Advanced Behaviour Analysis Techniques 20 credits

Learn to use a range of modern animal behaviour analysis techniques in a variety of settings, such as labs, farms, zoos etc. Cover how you identify and follow individual animals to collect social data and construct a social network, how to analyse animal movement and how we can test and train animals to assess behavioural changes - and how to communicate, to a wider audience, the importance of these techniques.

50% Coursework

50% Practicals

BIOL324
Advanced Bioinformatics and Phylogenetics 20 credits

Technological advances have generated a substantial increase in the amount and speed of data production. You will build expertise in skills used for data analysis, essential for working in the life sciences (big data sets, bioinformatics, phylogenetics, image analysis and genomics etc.) to address questions in biology, ecology, evolution and behaviour; and communicating these complex ideas to the wider public.

50% Coursework

50% Practicals

 

Tailored learning

Study up to four exciting topic areas:
  • Plant biotechnology – exploring food security and sustainability challenges through genetic innovation in crops and agriculture.
  • Global change biology – understanding how climate change affects ecosystems and biodiversity and how to contribute to global conservation efforts.
  • Ecotoxicology – discovering how pollutants impact living organisms and ecosystems and to helping to shape safer environmental policies.
  • Environmental microbiology and biotechnology – exploring how microbes can be harnessed to clean up pollution, produce biofuels or improve health.
  • Medical genetics – delving into the genetic basis of disease and how to contribute to breakthroughs in personalised medicine and diagnostics.
  • Animal and human health – understanding disease, physiology, and health systems to improve wellbeing across species.
  • Science centres communication – looking into how to make science accessible and engaging and inspiring public understanding through education and outreach.
 

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Experience

 
 
 
 

Specialised facilities

Our state-of-the-art undergraduate laboratories are equipped with advanced, specialised facilities that reflect the latest developments in bioscience technology. Through regular hands-on experience in these labs, you'll gain practical skills and confidence using industry-standard equipment – ensuring you're workplace-ready from day one.
In addition to technical training, you'll work in environments that simulate real-world research settings, preparing you for careers in biomedical science, biotechnology, and environmental biology. Whether you're analysing genetic material, culturing microbes, or testing for pollutants, you'll be supported by expert staff and cutting-edge resources every step of the way.
Marine Station
 
 
 
 
 

Learn from experts

Learn from academics who are leaders in their field, with expertise in a wide range of research topics that directly inform your learning and prepare you for a successful career.

Achieve your ambitions by linking research to real world problems. Equip yourself with the skills you need to make a positive impact on the sustainability of our environment and society.

Richard PreziosiProfessor Richard Preziosi
Head of School

Meet your lecturers

Dr Victor Kuri Lecturer in Food Quality


Lecturer in Food Quality

Programme Lead
Dr George Littlejohn Associate Professor of Plant and Fungal Biology


Associate Professor of Plant and Fungal Biology

Dr Anne Plessis Lecturer in Plant Biosciences


Lecturer in Plant Biosciences

Show all
 
 
 

Meet our school technical staff  

Our technical staff are integral to the delivery of all our programmes and bring a diverse range of expertise and skills to support students in laboratories, workshops, and the field.
 
 
 
 
 
 

Life in Â鶹´«Ã½

Â鶹´«Ã½'s maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
 

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student

Students sitting on the Barbican
Life in the city
Discover what Â鶹´«Ã½ and its unique geographical location have to offer
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Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene

Careers

I would definitely encourage you to carry out a placement year as it gave me a fantastic insight into how to prepare for life after graduation.

Harriet Saunders
Alumni

Harriet Saunders, BSc Human Biosciences Graduate
 
 

Optional placement year: preparing you for the future

Enrich your experience and boost your career prospects by taking an optional work placement year in research or industry before starting the course. A placement will enhance your employability by providing relevant work experience, allowing you to apply your knowledge and expertise while also developing new skills and techniques.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
 2026-2027.
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
Optional placement year  completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year  completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about  fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
Optional placement year  completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year  completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 per year
Optional placement year  completed in the UK
To be confirmed
 
Optional placement year  completed outside the UK
To be confirmed
 

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at Â鶹´«Ã½, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
 

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

A foundation degree (FdSc), Higher National Diploma (HND) or other equivalent qualification in a biological subject. You will be advised on appropriate module choices based on your specific foundation degree or diploma content on enrolment at the University.
Admissions depends on foundation programme studied and all applications will be referred to the Admissions Tutor. Please contact our undergraduate Admissions team on email: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk or by phone: +44 1752 585858.
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
 
Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
C790
Institution code
P60
Duration

1 year
(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
Â鶹´«Ã½
 

Entry requirements

We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
 
 
 

BSearch entry requirements for your country

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English language requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
 
As an international student, you can apply for this course through an agent in your country.
  • Find an agent
    • UCAS course code
    C790
    Institution code
    P60
    Duration

    1 year
    (+ optional placement)
    Course type

    Full-time
    Study location
    Â鶹´«Ã½
     
     
     

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