BSc Biological Sciences (Including Foundation Year) - Biological Sciences Degree
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-10-01 | - |
| 2025-10-01 | - |
Program Overview
The BSc Biological Sciences (including foundation year) at Essex University is a four-year program that provides a comprehensive understanding of biology, from molecules to ecosystems. Students can customize their degree with various pathways, including molecular and cell biology, biotechnology, and ecology and conservation biology. Graduates are equipped with analytical and computational skills in high demand in industries such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and environmental conservation.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The BSc Biological Sciences (including foundation year) is a four-year course that includes a foundation year (known as Year Zero) which is delivered by the Essex Pathways Department, followed by a further three years of study in the School of Life Sciences. During Year Zero, students study three academic subjects relevant to their chosen course as well as a compulsory academic skills module, with additional English language for non-English speakers. After successful completion of Year Zero, students progress to complete their course with the School of Life Sciences. In their three years with the School of Life Sciences, students will cover the breadth of biology from molecules and cells, to whole organisms and ecosystems. They'll discover how new developments in technology are driving current research, with research-based teaching delivered by leading scientists investigating global biological challenges. The vast and diverse world of living organisms offers a huge range of opportunities for study and work, and at Essex we give you the flexibility to shape your degree to suit your interests. Your first year with the School of Life Sciences offers broad insights into cell and molecular biology, genetics, ecology and evolution, as well as an overview of animal, plant, and microorganism diversity. Our Integrative Biology pathway allows you to choose from a broad selection of modules across different disciplines. Alternatively, you can customise your degree to specialise in an area you enjoy most, choosing from either Molecular and Cell Biology, Biotechnology, or Ecology and Conservation Biology.
Outline:
Year 0
- Introduction to Biology
- Chemistry for Biology
- Mathematics and Statistics for Sciences
- Research and Academic Development Skills
Year 1
- Quantitative methods for Life Sciences
- Molecular Cell Biology
- Genetics and Evolution
- Animal Evolution, Ecology and Behaviour
- Microbiology
- Plant Biology and Ecosystems
Year 2
- Transferable Skills in Life Sciences
- Option from list (15 credits)
- Option(s) from list (30 credits)
- Option(s) from list (30 credits)
- Option from list (15 credits)
Year 3
- Estuarine and Coastal Ecology Field Module (Assessed in Following Year)
- Research Project in Life Sciences
- Option from list (15 credits)
- Option(s) from list (30 credits)
- Option(s) from list (30 credits)
Assessment:
Degrees are awarded on the results of written examinations together with continual assessments of practical work and coursework.
Teaching:
Undergraduate students in the School of Life Sciences typically attend two or three hours of lectures per week per module, plus two or three laboratory practices per module.
Careers:
Demand for qualified biologists continues to grow and our course will equip you with the analytical and computational skills that are in high demand by employers. Recent graduates have gone on to work in a range of different careers in organisations which include GlaxoSmithKline, the Sainsbury Laboratory (University of Cambridge), ALS Laboratories, the NHS, Suffolk County Council, Essex Wildlife Trust and Natural England. Others have chosen to enhance their career opportunities by studying for MSc, MSD (Masters of Research) or PhD degrees.
Other:
- We're ranked 23rd in the UK for Biology in The Guardian University Guide 2024.
- We are ranked 10th for biosciences for overall positivity score (National Student Survey 2023, English Broad Discipline Institutions).
- Our expert staff Our Essex Pathways Department is a gateway to the University of Essex, helping students without standard entry requirements to grow in confidence, unlock their potential, and nurture their ambitions so they can progress in academic study.
- The research undertaken in our School of Life Sciences covers a wide spectrum of biology – from the cell right through to communities and ecosystems.
- Key academic staff for this course include Dr Alex Dumbrell, who specialises in ecology and biodiversity, Dr Tracy Lawson, who researches stomata, using chlorophyll and thermal imaging to measure plant productivity, and Dr Phil Reeves, who works on the molecular mechanism of vision loss.
- The course director for BSc Biological Sciences is Dr Martin Wilkes, who is an ecologist with an industry background in data science, and is interested in data-driven explanations and predictions of biodiversity change. Depending on your choice of pathway and research project you have the opportunity to use these facilities, which include:
- Receive training in your first year on using the Oxford Nanopore MinION, a portable handheld device that can sequence genomes in real time
- A high performance computing cluster with 368 CPUs, 5.4Tb of RAM and 700Tb of storage for analyses of large biological data sets
- An advanced bioimaging suite to visualise and process images of biological processes in real time
- An X-ray Crystallography and Macromolecular Interactions facilities for the biophysical characterisation of proteins and other macromolecules
- Fully automated laboratories with robotic liquid handling systems and equipment for cell culture, molecular biology and gene editing
- A fleet of remote-sensing drones for carrying out remote field surveys
- Aquariums, mesocosms and other facilities for ecology and behaviour studies
Home/UK fee £9,250 per year International fee £19,500 per year Fees will increase for each academic year of study.
University of Essex
Overview:
The University of Essex is a public research university located in Colchester, Essex, England. It is known for its strong academic reputation, particularly in the fields of social sciences, humanities, and law. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, as well as short courses and apprenticeships.
Services Offered:
The university provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Accommodation:
Guaranteed, affordable accommodation for new undergraduate and postgraduate students.Student Support:
A variety of support services are available to students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health support.Careers and Employability:
The university offers resources and programs to help students develop their career skills and find employment.Essex Sport:
A wide range of sports facilities and activities are available to students, including fitness classes, performance sport, and scholarships.Faith:
The university provides support for students of all faiths.Cost of Living Support:
The university offers financial assistance to students who are struggling with the cost of living.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Essex can expect a vibrant and diverse campus experience. The university has a strong sense of community, with a variety of clubs, societies, and events to get involved in. The university also has a beautiful campus, with green spaces, lakes, and modern facilities.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Academic Reputation:
The university is consistently ranked highly in national and international rankings.Excellent Research:
The university is a leading research institution, with a strong focus on innovation and impact.Diverse and Inclusive Community:
The university is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students.Excellent Student Support:
The university provides a wide range of support services to help students succeed.Beautiful Campus:
The university has a beautiful campus, with green spaces, lakes, and modern facilities.Academic Programs:
The University of Essex offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Programs:
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate programs in the arts, humanities, social sciences, law, business, and science.Postgraduate Programs:
The university offers a wide range of postgraduate programs, including master's degrees, PhDs, and professional qualifications.Short Courses and CPD:
The university offers a variety of short courses and continuing professional development programs.Other:
The university has three campuses: Colchester, Southend, and Loughton. The Colchester campus is the main campus and is located in a beautiful parkland setting. The Southend campus is located on the seafront and offers a more urban experience. The Loughton campus is home to the university's drama school, East 15 Acting School.
The university is also home to a number of research centers and institutes, including the Centre for Research in Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Management (REIMI) and the Human Rights Centre.
Entry Requirements:
UK and EU applicants:
- All applications for degree courses with a foundation year will be considered individually, whether you think you might not have the grades to enter the first year of a degree course;
- have non-traditional qualifications or experience (e.g. you haven’t studied A-levels or a BTEC);
- are returning to university after some time away from education; or
- are looking for more support during the transition into university study.
Standard offer:
- Our standard offer is 72 UCAS tariff points from at least two full A-levels, or equivalent, to include a science subject. Examples of the above tariff may include:
- A-levels: DDD (including a science subject)
- BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma: MMP (in a science subject)
- T-levels: Pass with E in core, depending on subject studied - advice on acceptability can be provided. For this course we require either
- Level 3 (i.e. A-level, BTEC, etc.) scientific study. Considered science subjects from all qualifications include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Psychology, Maths, Geography, Sports Science and Applied Science.
- or
- Two GCSEs from Chemistry, Physics, and Biology at grade B/6 (or equivalent). Other science-related GCSE subjects may be considered on a case-by-case basis. All applicants must also hold GCSE Maths and Science at grade C/4 or above (or equivalent). We may be able to consider a pass in an OFQUAL regulated Level 2 Functional Skills Maths where you cannot meet the requirements for Maths at GCSE level. However, you are advised to try to retake GCSE Mathematics if possible as this will better prepare you for university study and future employment.
Mature applicants and non-traditional academic backgrounds:
- We welcome applications from mature students (over 21) and students with non-traditional academic backgrounds (might not have gone on from school to take level 3 qualifications).
- We will consider your educational and employment history, along with your personal statement and reference, to gain a rounded view of your suitability for the course. We might not need evidence of level 3 scientific study where you have relevant work experience in a scientific field, or where you have previous successful study at degree level.
International applicants:
- Essex Pathways Department is unable to accept applications from international students. Foundation pathways for international students are available at the University of Essex International College and are delivered and awarded by Kaplan, in partnership with the University of Essex. Successful completion will enable you to progress to the relevant degree course at the University of Essex.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English:
- IELTS 5.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each component, or specified score in another equivalent test that we accept. Details of English language requirements, including component scores, and the tests we accept for applicants who require a Student visa (excluding Nationals of Majority English Speaking Countries) can be found here
- If we accept the English component of an international qualification it will be included in the academic levels listed above for the relevant countries.
- English language shelf-life
- Most English language qualifications have a validity period of 5 years. The validity period of Pearson Test of English, TOEFL and CBSE or CISCE English is 2 years.
- Pre-sessional English courses
- If you do not meet our IELTS requirements then you may be able to complete a pre-sessional English pathway that enables you to start your course without retaking IELTS.
- Pending English language qualifications
- You don’t need to achieve the required level before making your application, but it will be one of the conditions of your offer.
