BSc in Biological Sciences
Belfast, United Kingdom
DURATION
3 Years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Request application deadline
EARLIEST START DATE
Sep 2025
TUITION FEES
GBP 25,300
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
Introduction
Biological Sciences encompasses many aspects of the biosciences, from molecular biology through to whole organisms and ecosystems, and includes exploration of:
- Biological diversity, systematics, and conservation
- Cell and tissue structure, function, and physiology
- Ecology and behavior
- Form and function of microorganisms, protists, fungi, plants, and animals
- Genetics and mechanisms and Pathways of evolution
In Bsc in Biological Sciences, the students will gain core technical skills and subject-specific practical laboratory- / field-based skills to help them investigate and manipulate biological material including relevant physical, chemical, and biological measurements and their application in a laboratory, field, and research project setting. During the final year project, students will have access to cutting-edge research facilities across the molecular and ecological disciplines. Additional skills achieved include Collation, quantitative analysis, and interpretation of experimental data, including problem-solving; communication and application of knowledge; the use of computers for data management and presentations, and the development of intellectual, personal, and team skills for employment and further study.
Admissions
Curriculum
Year 1
- Genetics and the Molecular Toolbox (20 credits)
- Biodiversity (20 credits)
- Molecular Basis of Life (20 credits)
- World of Microorganisms (20 credits)
- Fundamentals of Microbiology (20 credits)
- Environmental Biology (20 credits)
Year 2
- Cell Biology (20 credits)
- Invertebrate Biology (20 credits)
- Plant and Soil Science (20 credits)
Year 3
- Research Project (40 credits)
Assessment
Details of assessments associated with this course are outlined below:
How students are assessed will vary according to the learning objectives of each module. Most modules are assessed through a combination of coursework and end-of-academic-year examinations. Some modules [e.g. final year Honours Project module] are assessed solely through project work or written assignments. Details of how each module is assessed are outlined in the Student Handbook which is provided to all students during their first-year induction and is available on our School website.
Program Tuition Fee
Career Opportunities
A degree in biosciences opens the door to a wide range of careers. Our graduates are employed in organisations working within research and development, environmental monitoring and management, water quality management, animal welfare, academic research, the agri-food industries, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, teaching and education, and science communication. Employment in these areas is critical to addressing global problems such as climate change, food supply and security, biodiversity loss, antibiotic resistance, and global health issues.
Degree Plus/Future Ready Award for extra-curricular skills
In addition to your degree programme, at Queen's you can have the opportunity to gain wider life, academic and employability skills. For example, placements, voluntary work, clubs, societies, sports and lots more. So not only do you graduate with a degree recognised by a world-leading university, but you'll also have practical national and international experience plus a wider exposure to life overall. We call this the Degree Plus/Future Ready Award. It's what makes studying at Queen's University Belfast special.
Student Testimonials
Program delivery
Contact Teaching Hours
Large Group Teaching
- 15 (hours maximum)
- Typically around 9 hours teaching [3 hours for each module studied – see later information on course content] and 3 hours practical every two weeks for each module.
Personal Study
- 28 (hours maximum)
- For private study and writing assignments each week.
Teaching Times
Classes typically end at 1 PM on a Wednesday.
Learning and Teaching
During the BSc Biological Sciences, the school provides a range of learning experiences to enable students to engage with subject experts and develop attributes and perspectives that will equip them for life and work. Students can make use of innovative technologies and a world-class library that enhances their development as independent, lifelong learners.