Biological Sciences MSci

Program Overview

Through research-driven teaching, students develop scientific knowledge and investigative skills to address environmental and societal issues, preparing them for careers in research, academia, industry, and healthcare. The program offers a guaranteed interview scheme with Brighton and Sussex Medical School for students pursuing medicine and includes optional field trips and a placement year for practical experience.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Biological Sciences MSci

The Biological Sciences MSci explores biological systems at molecular, cell, tissue, and whole organism levels.

• Equip students with the skills to apply scientific knowledge to solve real-world problems.
• Prepare students for further study or careers in the biological sciences.

Description:

This integrated degree provides extra in-depth study at the master's level, enabling you to develop advanced research skills and specialize in subjects that interest you most. You will learn with a course team who are internationally recognized experts in their field, with research strengths in areas such as zoonotic disease, human physiology, diabetes, biomedical devices, and conservation. You will undertake an individual research project and gain practical experience through laboratory classes and fieldwork. Destinations for optional field trips currently include South Africa and Portugal. This course offers a guaranteed interview scheme with the Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS) for students wishing to pursue a degree in medicine.

Outline:

Course Structure:

The course is structured as follows:

• Year 1: Introduction to biological sciences, including skills for bioscientists, genetics, molecular biology, human physiology, biochemistry, and diversity of life.
You can also choose to study ecology and conservation, marine biology, or blood science.
• Year 2: Advanced topics in biology, including research skills, professional development, behavioral and evolutionary biology, and climate change.
You can choose to study in environmental, ecological, biomedical, and clinical areas through a range of option modules.
• Placement Year (Optional): A placement year provides you with valuable work experience and helps you explore potential specialisms.
• Year 3: Species interactions and innovations in bioscience research, including an individual research project.
• Final Year: In-depth research project, working with an academic who is a recognized expert in the field.
You will also choose from a range of option modules to deepen your knowledge within a specialist theme.

Course Schedule:

The course typically runs from September to June each year. You will have lectures, seminars, laboratory classes, and tutorials throughout the week.

Modules:

The modules offered in the program vary depending on the year of study, chosen specialization, and option modules selected. However, some core modules include:

• Introduction to Biochemistry
• Introduction to Human Physiology
• Essential Skills for Bioscientists
• Fundamentals in Genetics and Evolution
• Introduction to Microorganisms and Plants
• Research Skills and Professional Development
• Animal Diversity and Adaptations
• Global Challenges: Climate Change and Environmental Degradation
• Project (either Bioscience or Ecology)
• Species Interactions
• Innovations in Bioscience Research
• MSci Research Project
• Evaluating Research in Biosciences

Assessment:

Assessment methods vary depending on the module and may include:

• Essays
• Exams
• Presentations
• Practical and communication exercises
• Formative exercises
• Individual research project

Teaching:

The program is taught by a team of internationally recognized experts in their field. The teaching methods include:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Laboratory classes
• Tutorials
• Fieldwork
• Independent study

Careers:

Biological Sciences MSci graduates can pursue careers in a wide range of fields, including:

• Research
• Academia
• Industry
• Government
• Healthcare
• Education

Other:

• The program offers a guaranteed interview scheme with the Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS) for students wishing to pursue a degree in medicine.
• Students can undertake a placement year to gain valuable work experience.
• The program is delivered in a state-of-the-art facility with access to specialist labs and equipment.
• Fees: https://www.brighton.ac.uk/courses/biological-sciences-msci/fees-and-costs
• Open days: https://www.brighton.ac.uk/open-days

Course fees

UK (full-time) 9,250 GBP International (full-time) 15,900 GBP