Degree Overview:

Title:

Biological Sciences with Professional Studies (BSc)

Institution:

Queen's University Belfast

Department:

School of Biological Sciences

Level:

Undergraduate

Duration:

4 years (Full-time)

Credits:

440

Overview:

The Biological Sciences with Professional Studies programme at Queen's University Belfast is a comprehensive four-year course that combines a strong foundation in biological sciences with a dedicated focus on developing key professional skills. This unique program aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge and expertise to succeed in a wide range of biological-related careers.

Objectives:

Equip students with a comprehensive understanding of core biological principles and concepts.
Develop strong practical laboratory and research skills through hands-on activities.
Foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical abilities.
Cultivate effective communication and teamwork skills.
Enhance employability by providing practical experience through a professional placement year.
Prepare students for further postgraduate study or research in related fields.

Description:

Students enrolled in this program will acquire a comprehensive understanding of various biological disciplines, including molecular biology, cell biology, ecology, biodiversity, genetics, and physiology. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through research projects, laboratory-based experiments, and field experiences. Additionally, students will engage in a 46-week professional placement year which allows them to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world settings and gain valuable career-building experience.

Outline:

Program Structure:

Year 1: Introduction to core biological principles through foundational modules covering key areas like Biodiversity, Genetics, and Environmental Biology.
Year 2: Students gain deeper knowledge in specific areas by choosing from specialized modules that align with their interests and career aspirations, including options in Plant and Soil Science, Invertebrate Biology, and Cell Biology.
Year 3: Students dedicate a full year to a professional placement opportunity with partner organizations, gaining vital industry experience and strengthening their career profiles.
Year 4: Return to academic coursework with advanced modules focused on research skills, project development, and independent research project completion.

Modules:

Year 1:

Biodiversity
Genetics and the Molecular Toolbox
Environmental Biology
World of Microorganisms
Fundamentals of Microbiology
Molecular Basis of Life

Year 2:

Plant and Soil Science
Invertebrate Biology
Cell Biology
Microbial Metabolism and Biocatalysis
Vertebrate Biology
Advanced Cell Biology
Comparative Animal Physiology
Microorganisms in Action
Coastal and Oceanic Biology
Applied Genetics
Forensics and Toxicology
Applied Ecology

Year 4:

Professional Studies (incorporates placement experience)
Research Project

Assessment:

Assessment methods vary depending on the modules but commonly include a combination of:

Coursework assignments (essays, reports, presentations)
Practical lab reports
Mid-term and final examinations
Research project evaluation

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The program combines traditional lectures, seminars, individual and group project work, alongside substantial practical laboratory sessions. Additionally, students benefit from:

Fieldwork experiences to gain firsthand exposure to natural environments.
Extensive use of online learning resources and virtual labs.
Individual tutoring and personalized feedback from expert faculty members.

Faculty:

The School of Biological Sciences boasts a team of highly accomplished and experienced faculty members who are internationally recognized for their research contributions and dedication to teaching.

Careers:

This program prepares graduates for diverse career paths in various sectors, including:

Academic research and teaching
Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies
Environmental consultancy and conservation organizations
Government agencies and regulatory bodies
Science communication and outreach initiatives
Forensic science and crime investigation
Food and agriculture industry

Other:

The program has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, signifying its high academic quality and its adherence to professional standards.
The University offers dedicated career guidance and support to assist students in building successful career paths.
Strong emphasis is placed on developing research skills, including critical analysis of scientific literature, data interpretation, and effective communication of research findings.
The program actively integrates sustainable practices and promotes an understanding of the critical role of biological sciences in addressing contemporary global challenges.
Students have access to diverse extracurricular activities and societies related to their studies, offering opportunities for networking and professional development.
The program promotes internationalization through opportunities for study abroad and collaboration with international researchers.
Students are encouraged to participate in research internships and summer placements to further enhance their professional development and research experience.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

Non-EU(NI) Tuition Fees:

£25,300

EU Other Tuition Fees:

£25,300

International Tuition Fees:

£25,300

Currency:

British Pound (GBP)

Payment Information:

Payment options for tuition fees are detailed here: www.qub.ac.uk/Study/International-students/international-scholarships.

Additional Fees:

Year 1: £45 (Laboratory coat) and £25 (E-Book) are required, along with the costs of compulsory field trips (£150 for the Environmental Biology module, £180 for the Coastal and Oceanic Biology module, and £180 for the Applied Ecology with Field Course module).
Students are additionally responsible for covering the travel, accommodation, and subsistence costs associated with the year 3 work placement.
Printing, binding, and graduating ceremony costs may apply.
An additional charge may be incurred for exam resits and library fines.

Funding Options:

Information on funding options and student financial support arrangements is available here: www.qub.ac.uk/Study/Undergraduate/Fees-and-scholarships/.

Scholarships:

Information on available scholarships can be found here: www.qub.ac.uk/Study/international-students/international-scholarships.