Program Overview

If you’re interested in biology and advanced research and want to push yourself academically, then our MBiol Biological Sciences is for you. We’ve designed the course to give you the best start for a career in industrial or academic research.

The first 3 years have the same structure as the BSc Biological Sciences course, with a final year devoted to a major research project either in the lab or in the field. You’ll work alongside our world-leading academics and explore topics from genetics to biodiversity. You’ll gain a postgraduate degree after 4 years, or 5 years if you do a placement year.

The employment market for bioscience graduates is buoyant. Your skills in lab techniques, data handling, critical analysis, creativity and report writing are highly valued by employers. You’ll emerge as a self-assured and independent-minded postgraduate. A problem solver with the skills and knowledge to benefit organisations.

Our supportive staff are internationally renowned researchers, and we enjoy strong links with industry. As you journey to success, we’ll support you each step of the way.

Your first year will focus on developing basic science skills. You’ll explore core topics such as biodiversity, cell biology, and genetics. Your options include biochemistry and a residential field course.

In your second year, you’ll explore molecular biology, genomes, and take a deeper look at cell biology. Your options will include data carpentry, threatened species, microbiology, and the green planet. We’ll support you to prepare for your future career, whether that is a job or further education, with the option to take either a year long industry placement or a work experience module to advance your skills.

In your next two years of studies, you’ll focus on the development of your professional skills through modules across a wide range of specialities from molecular biology of cancer, business innovation, science communication to animal development or wildlife conservation. You’ll also do major research projects.