Biology MBiol, BSc

At Leeds, your Biology MBiol isn’t just about lectures—it’s about living and breathing biology from the very start. You’ll get hands-on experience through field trips, lab investigations, and independent research, all supported by world-class facilities and expert mentors.

From learning the basics of lab techniques to tackling real research questions, you’ll develop the skills that employers and postgraduate programmes value most. Whether it’s analysing genetic data, exploring plant biology, or running your own field project, you’ll be applying science in meaningful, practical ways.

Here’s what makes your experience unique:

• National Pig Centre & Research Farm – Work on real projects in animal nutrition, welfare, sustainable agriculture, and plant biology, supported by advanced greenhouse and growth facilities.

• Field Research in the UK, Europe & Africa – Study ecology and behaviour in authentic settings, from the Yorkshire Dales to international field stations.

• Field Courses – Take part in immersive experiences like the Coastal & Upland Habitats Course in Scotland, Urban Ecology on campus, or the unforgettable South Africa trip—complete with safari-style studies and real-world conservation challenges.

• Lab Training from Year 1 – Gain core skills in aseptic technique, biochemical assays, and genetic analysis through dedicated Laboratory and Experimental Skills modules.

• Advanced Research Skills – By Year 3, you’ll design and run your own original project—whether in the lab, the field, or using big data.

• Extended Research Project (Year 4) – Spend your final year embedded in master’s-level research alongside faculty, building expertise in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication.

• Year in Industry or Abroad – Add a professional edge with a paid placement in the UK or overseas—or combine study abroad with industry experience for a global perspective.

This is more than a degree—it’s a four-year journey that prepares you to think, work, and thrive as a scientist in the real world.

Graduates from this programme go on to do some truly exciting things—whether that’s becoming a research bioscientist, environmental consultant, conservation officer, policy adviser, or moving straight into further study. Employers recognise the strong mix of lab, field, and research skills you’ll gain at Leeds, which is why many graduates secure roles soon after finishing their degree.

How Leeds supports your career:

• The Faculty of Biological Sciences Student Opportunity Team works closely with the University Careers Centre to give you access to career newsletters, networking events with alumni, and STEM-focused career fairs. You’ll have the chance to connect directly with employers like AstraZeneca, GSK, Labcorp, the NHS, RSPB, and Yorkshire Wildlife Trust.

• The central Careers Service adds even more support with one-to-one coaching, CV and interview practice, mentoring schemes, placement year guidance, and access to MyCareer, the university’s job listings platform.

Graduate outcomes and earnings:
On average, Leeds biology graduates earn around £27,000 within 15 months of graduating, typically between £25,000 and £30,000. After five years, salaries rise to about £30,500, with many earning more depending on their chosen field.

Accreditation and industry links:
This programme is Advanced Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, meaning it not only meets the highest academic standards but also puts you on track toward professional recognition as a Chartered Biologist. Leeds also partners with industry through Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs), bringing cutting-edge doctoral-level research into real-world projects with businesses.

Your future path:
Graduates from Leeds go on to a wide variety of careers—some as research bioscientists or epidemiologists, others as wildlife filmmakers, senior ecologists, or international policy advisers. If academia is your calling, the MBiol sets you up perfectly for a Master’s or PhD, with access to Leeds’ world-class research environment and active postgraduate community.