Biological Sciences with Professional Studies (BSC HONS)

Program Overview

The BSc(Hons) Biological Sciences with Professional Studies program at Queen's University Belfast equips students with a comprehensive understanding of biological sciences, emphasizing interdisciplinarity and ethical considerations. Through a combination of core and optional modules, students gain a solid foundation in biosciences and specialize in areas of interest. The program culminates in a research project, allowing students to apply their knowledge and contribute to the field while developing transferable skills essential for diverse career paths.

Program Outline

Extracted Information from BSc(Hons) Biological Sciences with Professional Studies at Queen's University Belfast

Degree Overview:

• This 4-year program prepares students to tackle real-world problems related to climate change, food supply, biodiversity loss, and global health through the study of biological sciences.
• The program emphasizes interdisciplinarity, combining scientific knowledge with ethical considerations and research integrity aspects relevant to the field of Biological Science.
• The final year culminates in a research project, allowing students to apply their learned skills and knowledge to tackle a specific topic and contribute to the field.

Outline:

Program Structure:

• The program consists of 4 stages (years) with various core and optional modules.
• Stages 1 and 2 provide fundamental knowledge and practical laboratory experience in core aspects of biosciences.
• Stage 3 offers specialization options aligning with student interests, including marine, zoology, and microbiology (with a focus on specific degree pathways), and additional optional modules.
• In Stage 4, students conduct a full-year research project, building upon theoretical knowledge and practical skills developed throughout the program.

Core Modules:

• Stage 1: Introduces the fundamentals of biosciences, including biological diversity, molecular biology, cell biology, and genetics with practical skills development.
• Stage 2: Covers advanced topics like invertebrate biology, plant and soil science, vertebrate biology, microbiology, and develops advanced laboratory and analytical skills.
• Stage 3: Focuses on advanced topics specific to the chosen pathway and prepares students for their research project.
• Stage 4: Research project, allowing students to independently investigate a research question under the guidance of a faculty member.

Optional Modules:

• A wide range of optional modules are offered across all stages, covering specific areas of interest within biosciences, from applied ecology and molecular genetics to bioinformatics and immunology.
• Students can personalize their learning path by choosing optional modules that align with their career aspirations and interests.

Course Schedule:

• Lectures are typically 15 hours per module (for 3 lecture modules, totaling 45 hours) and practical sessions are 8 hours per module (48 hours in total).
• Lectures are delivered in person with online access offered for those who cannot attend.
• Practical sessions are offered at designated times with additional opportunities for individual work and preparation.

Individual Modules:

• Detailed descriptions of individual modules are not provided in the context.

Assessment:

• The program uses a variety of assessment methods, including:
• Formative assessments:
Regular (weekly) assignments, presentations, and tests to ensure ongoing comprehension and feedback throughout the modules.
• Summative assessments: Exams and coursework assignments for each module with varying contributions depending on the specific module requirements.
• Research project assessment: Evaluation through a combination of written reports, oral presentations, and potential poster displays at relevant scientific conferences.

Teaching:

• The program utilizes a multifaceted approach to teaching, including:
• Lectures:
Delivered by experienced faculty members known for their expertise in various areas of biosciences.
• Practical laboratory sessions: Guided by dedicated laboratory technicians for hands-on experience with diverse biological techniques and equipment.
• Interactive tutorials: Facilitated by experienced postgraduate students or academic staff to provide a supportive environment for deeper understanding of complex concepts.
• Research project supervision: Close guidance and mentorship from a faculty member with specific expertise relevant to the research topic chosen by the student.

Careers:

• The program prepares students for a wide range of careers in various sectors, including:
• Research and Development:
Opportunities in academic research institutions, government agencies, or pharmaceutical companies.
• Environmental Monitoring and Management: Roles in environmental consultancy agencies, government agencies, or NGOs focused on environmental protection.
• Water Quality Management: careers in organizations dedicated to water quality monitoring, management, and protection.
• Animal Welfare: Roles in animal welfare organizations, government agencies, or academic institutions focused on improving animal well-being.
• Academic Research: Opportunities to pursue further research in academia as postgraduate researchers or pursue a PhD program.
• Agro-Food Industries: Roles in food production, processing, and technology companies focused on sustainable and innovative food production systems.
• Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Industries: Opportunities in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies working on new drug development, gene therapy, and other critical applications.
• Teaching and Education: Careers in schools, colleges, or universities, teaching biology and related subjects at different educational levels.
• Science Communication: Roles in science communication organizations, media, or public engagement initiatives aimed at translating complex scientific topics into accessible information for the public.

Other:

• The program has a strong focus on developing transferable skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork, essential for success in diverse career paths.
• The program also emphasizes ethical considerations and research integrity, ensuring students conduct research and apply their knowledge responsibly and ethically.
• The program is designed to align with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, encouraging students to contribute to a more sustainable future.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

Northern Ireland (NI) 1 £4,750 Republic of Ireland (ROI) 2 £4,750 England, Scotland or Wales (GB) 1 £9,250 EU Other 3 £25,300 International £25,300 1 EU citizens in the EU Settlement Scheme, with settled status, will be charged the NI or GB tuition fee based on where they are ordinarily resident. Students who are ROI nationals resident in GB will be charged the GB fee. 2 EU students who are ROI nationals resident in ROI are eligible for NI tuition fees. 3 EU Other students (excludes Republic of Ireland nationals living in GB, NI or ROI) are charged tuition fees in line with international fees. All tuition fees quoted relate to a single year of study and will be subject to an annual inflationary increase, unless explicitly stated otherwise.