Biological Sciences with Professional Studies (MSCI HONS)

Program Overview

The MSci Biological Sciences with Professional Studies program at Queen's University Belfast combines a comprehensive understanding of biosciences with professional skills. Students gain a deep foundation in molecular and ecological disciplines, conduct a year-long placement for practical experience, and engage in research-intensive studies, preparing them for careers in various sectors, including environmental research, healthcare, and education.

Program Outline

Biological Sciences with Professional Studies (MSci) at Queen's University Belfast: A Comprehensive Extraction

Degree Overview:

This MSci Biological Sciences with Professional Studies program is a four-year, full-time course that offers a detailed understanding of the biosciences while equipping students with professional skills needed for employability.

The program aims to:

• Train students in core biological principles and research-driven discovery.
• Provide a deep understanding of molecular and ecological disciplines.
• Combine research skills with practical work experience through a year-long placement.
• Develop core skills and employment-related experiences valued by employers.

Outline:

Year 1:

• Core modules focus on microbial, molecular and environmental biology, encompassing skills like genetics, microscopy, and field work.
• Additional modules can be chosen from areas such as invertebrate biology and plant and soil science.

Year 2:

• Further core modules delve into advanced cell biology and vertebrate biology.
• Optional modules in areas like comparative animal physiology, immunology, and marine biology are available.
• A year-long professional placement provides practical experience and skill development in a work environment.

Year 3:

• Research Project (120 credits)
• This module allows students to select a research area specific to their interests and conduct an independent project under the guidance of academic staff.

Assessment:

• Assessments vary by module and include coursework, examinations, laboratory/field-based assessments, research project work, and presentations.
• Specific assessment methods employed for each module are outlined in the Student Handbook.

Teaching:

• The program delivers teaching through various methods: lectures, seminars, workshops, practicals, tutorials, field trips, and research project supervision.
• A dedicated team of academics with expertise in various biological disciplines provides guidance and instruction.
• Emphasis is placed on fostering student independence, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Careers:

Graduates are equipped to pursue a range of careers in sectors like:

• Climate change and environmental research
• Food supply and security
• Biodiversity loss and global health issues
• Pharmaceutical and biotechnological industries
• Teaching and education
• Scientific communication and research

Other:

• The program welcomes students from diverse backgrounds and nationalities.
• Scholarships and study abroad opportunities are available.
• Graduates can continue to PhD studies in specialized areas of the biosciences.

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. Note that the tuition fees quoted above are for the 2023-24 academic year and are for indicative purposes only as the fees for 2024-25 have not yet been finalised. These fees will be subject to an inflationary increase. All tuition fees quoted relate to a single year of study and will be subject to an annual inflationary increase for each year of the course, unless explicitly stated otherwise. Tuition fee rates are calculated based on a student’s tuition fee status and generally increase annually by inflation. How tuition fees are determined is set out in the Student Finance Framework. Additional course costs All Students Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies. Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from any Queen's library. If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the University Library, prices per text can range from £30 to £100. A programme may have up to 6 modules per year, each with a recommended text. Students should also budget between £30 to £75 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges. Students undertaking a period of work placement or study abroad, as either a compulsory or optional part of their programme, should be aware that they will have to fund additional travel and living costs. If a final year includes a major project or dissertation, there may be costs associated with transport, accommodation and/or materials. The amount will depend on the project chosen. There may also be additional costs for printing and binding. Students may wish to consider purchasing an electronic device; costs will vary depending on the specification of the model chosen. There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines. Biological Sciences with Professional Studies costs Year 1 students are required to buy a laboratory coat at a cost of £10, an E-Book at a cost of £25 and a dissection kit at a cost of £20. The following optional modules have a compulsory field trip: Compulsory module: Year 1 Environmental Biology Module has a field trip costing £150. Optional Modules: Year 2 Coastal and Oceanic Biology Module has a field trip costing £180. Year 2 Applied Ecology with Field Course Module has a field trip costing £180. All students may apply to go on a School Workplace Tour at a cost of £100. Students undertake a placement in year 3 and are responsible for funding travel, accommodation and subsistence costs. These costs vary depending on the location and duration of the placement. Students may receive payment from their placement provider during their placement year. How do I fund my study? There are different tuition fee and student financial support arrangements for students from Northern Ireland, those from England, Scotland and Wales (Great Britain), and those from the rest of the European Union. Information on funding options and financial assistance for undergraduate students is available at www.qub.ac.uk/Study/Undergraduate/Fees-and-scholarships/. Scholarships Each year, we offer a range of scholarships and prizes for new students. Information on scholarships available. International Scholarships Information on scholarships for international students, is available at www.qub.ac.uk/Study/international-students/international-scholarships/.