Biological Sciences (MBiol)

Program Overview

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Cardiff University's Biological Sciences (MBiol) program is a four-year integrated master's degree designed for aspiring researchers and professionals. It provides advanced training in research techniques and a wide range of subject options, allowing students to specialize or explore a broad spectrum of biological sciences. The program culminates in an extended research project, preparing graduates for careers in academia, industry, or further academic pursuits.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

This integrated master's degree program in Biological Sciences is designed for aspiring researchers and professionals seeking careers in various scientific fields. Spanning four years, the program focuses on contemporary research frontiers, providing advanced training in research techniques. The curriculum boasts a wide range of subject options encompassing animal and plant biology, microbiology, genetics, systems biology, ecology, disease, behavior, neuroscience, zoology, developmental and stem cell biology, and evolution.

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Objectives:

• Equip students with in-depth knowledge and understanding of biological sciences.
• Develop advanced research skills and expertise in laboratory and field techniques.
• Foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and problem-solving abilities.
• Enhance communication skills for effective dissemination of scientific knowledge.
• Prepare graduates for successful careers in research, industry, or further academic pursuits.

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Program Description:

This program offers a flexible structure, allowing students to tailor their degrees to their individual interests and aspirations. They can choose to specialize in a specific area of biology or explore a broader range of subjects. The program culminates in an extended research project conducted in an active research laboratory under the guidance of experienced researchers. This project provides students with an opportunity to contribute to original research and potentially publish their findings in scientific journals.

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Outline:

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Program Structure:

• Year 1: This common year introduces students to fundamental concepts in all areas of the biological sciences, including biological chemistry, cell biology, microbiology, genetics, evolution, anatomy and physiology, animal and plant biology, and ecology.
Practical classes and skill development are also emphasized.
• Year 2: Students begin to specialize by choosing from a range of modules covering topics such as animal diversity and adaptation, genetics, cell biology, biochemistry, and ecology and conservation.
They also have the option to switch to a five-year program with a Professional Training Year after completing the second year.
• Year 3: The focus shifts to in-depth exploration of specific research themes, chosen from a wide selection of modules.
Students engage in research-driven teaching and undertake a project in their chosen area, allowing them to investigate a topic in greater depth.
• Year 4: This final year is dedicated to an extended research project in an active research laboratory.
Students receive advanced research training and participate in a "Frontiers in Bioscience" module. However, it mentions that the first year is delivered through lectures, tutorials, presentations, and practical classes. Subsequent years likely involve a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and field courses, depending on the chosen modules.

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Individual Modules:

The text mentions several modules available in year two, including animal diversity and adaptation, genetics, cell biology, biochemistry, and ecology and conservation. The third year offers a wider range of specialized modules, with options covering evolution and adaptation, systems biology and modeling, plant science, biodiversity, synthetic biology, advanced cell biology, bioinformatics and functional genomics, and genes and genomes.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

Students are assessed through coursework and examinations. Coursework includes written practical reports, structured reports, class tests, structured answer tests, group work, poster and oral presentations, and computing/statistical problem-solving exercises. Examinations typically comprise a machine-marked structured answer section and a written answer section. However, the general focus is on assessing students' knowledge, understanding, application, analysis, communication, and research skills.

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

The program utilizes diverse teaching methods, including lectures, practical classes, workshops, seminars, tutorials, and field courses. These methods cater to different learning styles and provide a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical skills development.

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Faculty:

The program is taught by experienced researchers who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and expertise with students. They are accessible for consultations and provide support both inside and outside the classroom.

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Unique Approaches:

The program emphasizes research-driven teaching, allowing students to engage with cutting-edge research and gain practical experience through research projects. Additionally, the availability of project-based field courses provides hands-on experience in various ecological contexts.

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Careers:

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Career Prospects:

The program equips graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge for successful careers in various scientific fields. Graduates can pursue research-oriented careers in academia, industry, or government agencies. They are also well-prepared for careers in science communication, education, and other science-related professions.

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Career Opportunities:

The program opens doors to diverse career paths, including:

• Research Scientist
• Laboratory Technician
• Science Writer
• Science Educator
• Environmental Consultant
• Policy Analyst
• Pharmaceutical Scientist
• Biotechnology Specialist
• Healthcare Professional
The program also provides a strong foundation for further academic pursuits such as PhD studies.

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Other:

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Fieldwork:

The program offers various project-based field courses in locations worldwide, including Borneo, Malaysia, the Caribbean, Wales, and the UK. These courses provide invaluable hands-on experience in data collection, analysis, and interpretation in diverse ecological settings.

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International Focus:

Students have the opportunity to study abroad through the field courses and exchange programs.

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Learning and Development:

The program emphasizes student-centered learning, encouraging independent study, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Students are encouraged to actively participate in class discussions, collaborate on group projects, and take initiative in their learning journey.

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Research Opportunities:

The program provides opportunities for students to engage in research projects under the supervision of experienced researchers. This allows them to gain hands-on experience in research design, data collection, analysis, and dissemination.

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Industry Connections:

The program fosters close connections with industry partners, providing students with opportunities for internships, placements, and networking events. This allows them to gain real-world experience and explore potential career paths.

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Fees for home status

We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. The University reserves the right to increase tuition fees in the second and subsequent years of a course as permitted by law or Welsh Government policy. Where applicable we will notify you of any change in tuition fee by the end of June in the academic year before the one in which the fee will increase.

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Students from the EU, EEA and Switzerland

We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. Learn more about the undergraduate fees for students from the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man. We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year.

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Additional costs

Field courses which take place abroad incur an additional cost – primarily to cover student travel and accommodation. We also offer some excellent Wales-based field courses which do not incur additional costs. The University will provide IT facilities (in a communal space), laboratories equipped with specialist equipment, and all specialist software required for the course. Students are advised to have a personal laptop computer or equivalent.

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Accommodation

We have a range of residences to suit your needs and budget.

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Living costs

We're based in one of the UK's most affordable cities. Find out more about living costs in Cardiff.