Biological Sciences BSc Hons

If you’re fascinated by how life works—from the tiniest molecules to whole ecosystems—the Biological Sciences BSc (Hons) at Lancaster is designed for you. It’s a flexible, hands-on degree that blends theory, lab work, and field studies, giving you the chance to follow your interests while developing skills that employers and researchers really value.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
Your first year sets the foundation, covering the essentials of biology through modules like Genetics, Cell Structure and Function, Evolutionary Biology, and Ecology & Conservation Biology. Alongside lectures, you’ll be in the lab, analysing data, and heading outdoors on field trips to places like the Lake District—putting ideas into practice from day one.

Year 2
As you move into second year, the degree becomes more tailored to your interests. Core modules like Molecular Genetics and Cell and Developmental Biology give you depth, while options such as Animal Behaviour, Microbiology and Immunology, or Plant Biology let you shape your path. You’ll also spend more time building independence in the lab and working on your own projects.

Year 3
Your final year is where everything comes together. You’ll carry out your own research project or dissertation—this could be lab-based, fieldwork, or data-driven—and choose advanced modules like Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, Bioinformatics, or Global Health Challenges. It’s a chance to specialise, test your skills in real research, and prepare for life after university.

Focus Areas : Molecular biology • Evolution and ecology • Microbiology and immunology • Conservation biology • Plant and animal sciences • Global health and disease research • Bioinformatics and data analysis

Learning Outcomes : By the end of the degree, you’ll know how to design and analyse experiments, handle complex datasets, and communicate scientific ideas with confidence. You’ll be experienced in both lab and field techniques, able to evaluate scientific research critically, and ready to apply your knowledge to real-world issues in health, biodiversity, and the environment.

Professional Alignment : Although this course doesn’t carry formal accreditation, it’s strongly aligned with careers in research, healthcare, conservation, and biotech. The mix of lab time, fieldwork, and independent research makes you highly employable and well-prepared for postgraduate study or professional training.

Reputation : Lancaster has an excellent track record in this field—ranked #1 in the UK for graduate prospects in Biomedical Sciences (Guardian University Guide 2023) and #11 in Biological Sciences (Times Good University Guide 2023). Employers and postgraduate programmes know Lancaster Biology graduates have the right balance of theory, practical skills, and research experience.