BSc in Evolutionary Biology

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The BSc Evolutionary Biology at the University of Exeter is perfect for students curious about how life evolves, adapts, and diversifies over time. You’ll explore the fascinating mechanisms behind evolution while gaining hands-on experience in research and fieldwork, preparing you for careers in conservation, genetics, ecology, and more.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Foundations of Evolutionary Biology
Your first year lays the groundwork, introducing the essential concepts of biology, genetics, and ecology. You’ll study modules like Biosciences: Cells, Genes and Organisms, Ecology and the Environment, and Evolutionary Biology, giving you a solid understanding of how organisms function and interact with their environment.

Year 2: Advanced Topics and Research Skills
In the second year, you’ll dive deeper into evolutionary mechanisms and develop your research abilities. Modules include Molecular Evolution, Population and Community Ecology, and Research Methods in Biology, where you’ll learn to design experiments, analyze data, and communicate scientific findings effectively.

Year 3: Specialization and Independent Research
The final year lets you focus on areas that interest you most. You’ll tackle Applied Evolutionary Biology, complete a Dissertation in Evolutionary Biology, and select optional modules that match your career goals, giving you the chance to conduct independent research and apply your knowledge in practical settings.

Focus Areas: Evolutionary mechanisms, molecular genetics, ecological interactions, conservation biology.

Learning Outcomes: Critical thinking, data analysis, scientific communication, research design, problem-solving.

Professional Alignment: Prepares graduates for careers in research, conservation, and education, following professional standards in biological sciences.

Reputation: Exeter is renowned for its research in biological sciences, ranking among the top in the UK for world-leading research (REF 2021).

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Exeter, Evolutionary Biology isn’t just about lectures and textbooks—you’ll get hands-on experience that brings the science to life. From exploring ecosystems on field trips to working in cutting-edge labs, you’ll develop practical skills that prepare you for real-world research, conservation, or professional work in biology. The university’s excellent facilities and supportive environment make it easy to dive into experiments, collaborative projects, and exciting discoveries:

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

Field Courses: Explore diverse habitats on day trips and multi-day residential field courses in the UK and Europe, applying what you’ve learned in lectures to real ecosystems.
Professional Placement: Take an optional placement year to gain hands-on experience in a workplace, helping you build skills and connections for your future career.
Laboratory Facilities: Work in top-notch labs equipped for cell and molecular biology research, including microscopy suites, hot and cold rooms, and laser labs.
Living Systems Institute: Access world-class research space at this £52 million institute, where you can join real research projects and gain invaluable experience.
Bioimaging Centre: Use advanced optical, laser, and electron microscopes for detailed cellular imaging.
Sequencing Facility: Learn next-generation DNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis techniques.
Greenhouse and Plant Growth Facilities: Study plant biology with the support of well-equipped growth spaces.
Mass Spectrometry Facility: Get hands-on experience with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry instruments.
Global Meteorological Simulator: Experiment in four walk-in chambers that replicate a wide range of environmental conditions, perfect for studying organisms in different climates.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a BSc in Evolutionary Biology from Exeter opens doors to a variety of exciting career paths. You’ll leave with the practical skills, research experience, and scientific knowledge that employers value, ready for roles in research, conservation, environmental consultancy, and science communication:

Potential Career Paths:

Ecologist – Studying ecosystems and biodiversity through field and lab research.
Conservation Biologist – Protecting endangered species and habitats.
Environmental Consultant – Advising organizations on sustainability and environmental impact.
Science Communicator – Sharing scientific knowledge with the public and stakeholders.

University Support & Industry Connections:

Career Zone – Personalized guidance on CVs, interviews, and job applications to boost your employability.
Exeter Innovation – Collaborate with businesses and organizations through internships and project opportunities.
Graduate Outcomes – 89% of biosciences graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduating.
Industry Partnerships – Work with organizations like the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Rothamsted Research, the Met Office, and Plymouth Marine Laboratory, giving you direct links to potential employers.

Further Academic Progression:
After your BSc, there are many options to continue your studies:

MSci in Evolutionary Biology – A four-year program that dives deeper into evolutionary research and methodology.
Postgraduate Research (MRes/PhD) – Specialize in evolutionary biology, ecology, or related fields and gain hands-on research experience.
Intercalated Degrees – Options like the BSc (Hons) Intercalated Evolutionary Biology allow students (e.g., medical students) to take a year to study evolutionary biology in depth.

These pathways not only expand your knowledge but also strengthen your profile for careers in academia, research institutions, and advanced industry roles.