Program start date | Application deadline |
2023-09-18 | 2023-05-05 |
Program Overview
The BSc (Hons) Applied Bioscience course at Robert Gordon University is a highly practical course that will provide you with the essential knowledge and laboratory skills for a career in bioscience.
As a Bioscientist you will work on solving the biggest challenges currently faced by people and the planet; fighting disease, protecting the environment and feeding our growing population.
As a graduate, you will be suitably qualified to enter a range of professions due to the study of a wide-variety of topics including microbiology, biotechnology, bioanalysis, molecular biology and genetics, plant biology and environmental science.
Program Outline
Applied Bioscience students will study plants, animals and microorganisms, examining how they function at both the cellular and whole-organism level. Subjects include anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, genetics and molecular biology. Students will also learn about ecology and examine challenges for biodiversity and societies globally, including climate change and public health. The applications of bioscience to society and industry is also a key aspect of the learning experience on the course, including applications of synthetic biology and bioinformatics to bioscience, regulations governing the bioscience industry and developing skills in communicating bioscience to the public.
In state-of-the-art laboratory facilities you will gain valuable hands-on experience, from microbiology to bioanalytical work and cell culture; skills which are essential to any Bioscientist. The course also covers aspects of ethics in science as well as the communication of science to the public - a government priority.
Year 1
You will be introduced to the general principles of biology, chemistry, microbiology and ecology. You will also develop basic analytical skills by undertaking experimental work in the laboratory.Year 2
You will learn about the function of various forms of life, including microbes, plants and animals, including their anatomy, physiology, biochemical pathways and genetics. You will also further develop your understanding of bioanalytical techniques used in the bioscience industry.Year 3
You will study the application of bioscience to industry, including regulations and procedures governing industry; the use of bioscientific databases and data mining in bioinformatics; and examine reducing disease risk in public health. You will develop skills in communicating science to different sectors.
Year 4
In your final year you will develop skills in experimental design and statistical analysis before undertaking an individual research project independently. You will also examine emerging areas of the bioscience industry, such as biotechnology, omics and synthetic biology.
Events
We have on campus and virtual events to help you find out more about study, student experience and future career paths.
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Modules
Modules and delivery order may change for operational purposes. The University regularly reviews its courses. Course content and structure may change over time. See our
course and module disclaimer
for more information. Detailed module informationActivity Summary
Lectures
- 25 students per group, 50 hours per termSeminars
- 25 students per group, 20 hours per termTutorial
- 25 students per group, 10 hours per termProject Supervision
- 25 students per group, 50 hours per termPractical class or workshop
- 25 students per group, 30 hours per termIndependent Study
- 25 students per group, 300 hours per termHow long is a BSc (Hons) Applied Bioscience course?
The Applied Bioscience course can be successfully completed in 4 years. This is to include time for independent study and coursework preparation, tutorials, lectures and other activities.
Assessment
Typically students are assessed each year:
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
Feedback
We aim to provide you with feedback within 20 working days of hand-in for all written exams, coursework and practical exams.
Independent Study
In addition to scheduled class time and practical classes, you are expected to read widely from the provided reading lists, conduct your own research and meet with your peers to undertake allocated group work, complete tutorial assignments, and work on assessments. Together, the scheduled teaching activities and independent study equates to approximately 40 hours-per-week.
Staff Delivering on This Course
The teaching staff includes research-active individuals in a wider-range of disciplines (environmental science, microbiology, molecular and cellular biology) as well as academics who are registered with professional bodies such as the Institute of Biomedical Sciences and the Royal Society of Biology. This allows us to provide you with a course which is highly relevant to prospective employers, enhancing your employability prospects.
Academic Support
The Inclusion Centre advises and supports students who disclose a sensory or mobility impairment, chronic medical condition, mental health issue, dyslexia and other specific learning differences. Applicants are encouraged to arrange a pre-entry visit to discuss any concerns and to view the facilities.
The Inclusion Centre
Online Learning & Support
All undergraduate and postgraduate students, whether you are learning on campus or by online learning, benefit from using our collaborative virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle. You will be provided with 24/7 online access to your learning material and resources, along with the ability to interact with your class members and tutors for discussion and support.
CampusMoodle
Study Skills Support
The Study Support Team provides training and support to all students in:
Study Skills Support
Library Support
The Library offers support for your course, including the books, eBooks, and journals you will need. We also offer online reading lists for many modules, workshops and drop-ins on searching skills and referencing, and much more.
University Library
Study Abroad
The course provides an opportunity for you to study abroad under the Study Abroad programme: this takes place in the final year of study as part of a 12-week research project in a European country such as Germany, Spain, Portugal or Italy.
STUDY ABROAD
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Job Prospects
You will find Bioscientists working all over the world in a diverse range of settings including research and development laboratories (for example microbiology, marine science and immunology), biotechnology companies, classrooms, sales representatives and the food and drink industry.
Is Applied Bioscience a good career choice?
On completion of the course you will have a wide-range of career options in the field of biosciences. Many of our graduates find employment within private or public sector research. This could be within university, government, NHS, commercial or charity-funded laboratories.
Previous BSc Applied Bioscience graduates of Robert Gordon University have also gone on to pursue the following careers:
You may also decide to continue your studies and specialise with a Master’s degree, or develop your research skills with a PhD.
Find your Career Path