BA (hons) interior design (foundation year, optional sandwich year)

The BA (hons) interior design (foundation year, optional sandwich year) at the University of Birmingham combines advanced biological science with a full year of real workplace experience, helping you graduate with both academic confidence and professional credibility. It’s ideal for students who enjoy practical science, want strong laboratory training, and value gaining hands-on industry experience before entering the job market or postgraduate study.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

Your first year builds a strong foundation in the core principles of biosciences while introducing you to university-level laboratory work. You’ll study modules such as Molecular Biosciences and Microbiology, Cell Biology and Physiology and Genetics I, developing an understanding of how cells function, how genetic information is inherited, and how microorganisms impact health and the environment. Alongside scientific knowledge, you’ll begin developing key academic and professional skills through skills-based learning.

Year 2

In your second year, you move deeper into applied biotechnology and modern laboratory techniques. Modules like Genetic Engineering and Data Science, Proteins in Biotechnology and Microbiology: Medicine, Environment and Industry show how biological systems are manipulated and analysed in real-world settings. You’ll also strengthen your communication, teamwork and career-planning skills to prepare you for your upcoming placement year.

Year 3 – Placement Year

Your placement year is a defining part of the degree, giving you the opportunity to spend up to a year working in a professional environment. You’ll apply your scientific knowledge in industry, research organisations or related sectors, gaining hands-on experience, building professional networks and developing workplace confidence. This year allows you to see how biotechnology operates beyond the classroom and significantly boosts your employability.

Year 4

In your final year, you return to university with greater maturity and professional insight. You’ll complete a substantial research or practical project that demonstrates your independence as a scientist, alongside advanced optional modules such as Cancer Biology, Molecular and Cellular Immunology or Experimental Design and Analysis. This year brings together theory, research and real-world experience to prepare you for your next career step.

Focus Areas

Biotechnology applications, molecular biology, microbiology, genetic engineering, protein science, data analysis, laboratory research, industry placement experience.

Learning Outcomes

By graduation, you’ll be able to apply biotechnology techniques confidently in laboratory and professional environments, analyse complex biological data, communicate scientific ideas clearly, and carry out independent research informed by real-world practice.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The integrated placement year ensures the degree is closely aligned with employer expectations. Graduates leave with practical laboratory expertise, professional experience and transferable skills that are highly valued across biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, environmental science and research sectors.

Reputation (Employability & Rankings)

The University of Birmingham is widely recognised for its research-led teaching and strong graduate outcomes. Its biosciences graduates are well regarded by employers, and the addition of a placement year further strengthens employability by combining academic excellence with proven workplace experience.