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Durham’s Biological Sciences BSc is a research-led degree that lets you explore the living world from molecules to ecosystems, with flexibility to follow different themed routes (for example genetics, ecology, cell biology, etc.). It’s perfect if you want strong theoretical foundations and practical, hands-on skills, with options for placement years or studying abroad to deepen your experience.
Curriculum structure
Year 1
During the first year you build your foundation in core modules: Organisms and Environment, Genetics, Molecules and Cells, Introduction to Physiology, plus a module called Fundamentals of Bioscience Research. You also work on scientific skills — learning how to handle data, do experiments, think critically, and communicate scientific ideas.
Year 2
In your second year, you start to choose more specialized modules depending on your route. There’s a module called Research Skills for Biosciences which prepares you for independent study, alongside optional modules like Plant and Algal Physiology, Developmental Biology, Cell Signalling, Microbiology, Immune Systems, Integrated Physiological Systems. The content becomes more challenging and research-oriented.
Year 3
In the final year the focus is on advanced content and independent research: you’ll take a Literature Review module, engage with cutting-edge specialist electives (examples: Ecology in the Anthropocene, Conservation Biology, Genomics, Advanced Cell Biology, Stress and Responses to the Environment, etc.), and possibly a placement or year abroad if you opted for that pathway. It’s designed to let you apply what you’ve learned and shape your degree towards your interests and future plans.
Focus areas
“Ecology & evolution, molecular & cellular biology, genetics, developmental biology, environmental & organismal biology, physiology, microbiology, immunity”
Learning outcomes
“Ability to conduct independent and team-based research, utilise laboratory & field methods, analyse biological data, interpret scientific literature, communicate complex scientific topics, adapt to different routes (molecular, organismal, environment), solve real world biological challenges”
Professional alignment (accreditation)
The programme is designed around modern bioscience practice, including options for work placements and real research exposure. While I did not find a specific professional body accreditation explicitly listed for this BSc in Biological Sciences, Durham’s Biosciences department emphasises preparing students for roles in research, industry, healthcare, government etc., making the degree highly relevant for employers.
Reputation (employability rankings)
Durham University is consistently ranked in the top UK universities: e.g., 5th in the Complete University Guide 2026.
Globally, Durham is in the world top 100 in QS University Rankings and holds strong global reputation with employers.
Graduate outcomes for Biological Sciences: about 88% of graduates are in work or further study 15 months after the course.
From early on, you’re getting practical skills in labs, field settings, and digital environments. Durham’s Biological Sciences is research-led, meaning you won’t just learn from lectures: you’ll run experiments, use high-end lab and imaging equipment, analyze real data sets, participate in group-based problem solving, and have the option of a placement year to gain workplace experience. You’ll also work with tools for genomics, bioinformatics, microscopy, statistics, and science communication — all supported by dedicated facilities and technical staff.
Here are specific opportunities & facilities you’ll use:
Access to the Microscopy and Bioimaging facility, with instruments like widefield & advanced light microscopy (LSCM / SDCM / TIRF), electron microscopy (SEM / TEM), and histology labs.
Use of the DBS Genomics Facility (DNA sequencing, fragment analysis, Illumina HiSeq & MiSeq) plus a dedicated bioinformatician to support data generation and analysis.
Cell Technology Suite for more specialised lab work: live-cell imaging, flow cytometry, microinjection, in situ hybridisation, qPCR etc.
Plant growth & animal growth facilities: controlled-environment greenhouses and growth chambers, where you can conduct experimental or ecological/plant biology module work.
Module-based work that includes Research Skills for Biosciences (module BIOL2581), covering experimental design, statistics, literature analysis, scientific writing and communication.
Group projects & workshops: e.g. the module Contemporary Issues in the Biosciences includes group work to analyse real-world biological problems, prepare consulting-style reports, posters, and presentations.
Public engagement and teaching modules: for example Public Engagement in Biosciences allows you to work on outreach projects, communicate scientific ideas to non-specialist audiences, manage independent research with supervisory support.
Graduates from this Biological Sciences degree go on to roles such as industrial researcher, conservation / environmental services professional, medical / healthcare scientist, or science communicator / policy advisor. Because the course includes strong research training, practical lab / field work, and transferable skills like data analysis and critical thinking, you’ll be well-prepared both for employment and further academic study.
Here are how Durham supports your future and what outcomes grads typically see:
Which university services help with employment: Durham’s Careers and Employability Service (through „Develop Yourself“, CareersConnect, CV, application and interview preparation), along with subject-specific biosciences employability support. Students get help finding placements, internships, work shadowing, and networking opportunities.
Employment stats / salary figures: While specific salary figures for Biological Sciences graduates aren’t published on the course page I saw, Durham reports that its bioscience grads readily move into sectors like biotechnology, industry R&D, healthcare, teaching, environmental services etc.
University–industry partnerships (specific): The Department of Biosciences collaborates via its Services & Collaboration group (mass spectrometry, bioinformatics, etc.) with external as well as internal partners. Also the Biophysical Sciences Institute works closely with industrial partners on real-world problem-based workshops and research.
Long-term accreditation value: The research environment is 100% internationally recognised (REF 2021). This reflects the rigorous academic standard of teaching and research, which employers and postgraduate programs respect.
Graduation outcomes: Graduates move into higher education (Masters / PhD), roles in the NHS, teaching, environmental/ ecological sectors, media / science communication, civil service, etc. Durham emphasises that bioscience grads develop transferable skills that open industries beyond just “biology” roles.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BSc in Biological Sciences, you have solid options to continue:
You can pursue taught Master’s degrees in fields such as Biotechnology, Plant Biotechnology & Enterprise, or other specialist biosciences topics.
You can also go into PhD / research by thesis tracks, in areas like molecular biology, ecology, evolution, environmental biology etc. Durham has a strong postgraduate research community.
A level offer – AAA including Biology or Chemistry or Human Biology plus another science subject.IB : 37 points with 666 in higher level subjects including Biology or Chemistry plus another higher level science subject.English language: IELTS 6.5, with no component under 6.0. for India : Standard XII with an average score of 85% (best of 4 academic subjects, excluding Physical Education) with any prerequisite subjects at 85% or higher.Acceptance of relevant science subject at Higher Level or A-Level for eligibility (Biology, Chemistry etc.). for India : Standard XII from CBSE or CISCE Boards and some State Boards only are accepted for entry. State Boards considered on a case by case basis.for USA : Three AP test scores of: 5,5,5 OR Four AP test scores of: 5,5,4,4for USA : SAT : 1350 (min 700 RW, 650 M) ACT: 30 , Honours Course: Afor USA : Achieve overall GPA of 3.7 with three honours classes at: A, A, AIndustrial research & development rolesHealthcare roles (egin the NHS or diagnostics)Teaching professionalsConservation / environmental servicesScience communication / journalismGovernment / civil service rolesPatent law / legal consultancy in biology-related areasBiotechnology sector rolesFinance / business / administrative professions using bioscience skillsFurther research (postgraduate / PhD)
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Durham University
