MBiol Biological Sciences

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Oxford Brookes University

Program Overview

If you’re passionate about biology and want to take your studies further than a standard degree, the MBiol Biological Sciences at Oxford Brookes could be a perfect fit. This four-year course combines the depth of an undergraduate degree with the advanced training of a Master’s, giving you the chance to explore everything from genetics and biodiversity to molecular biology and evolution, before moving into a full research project in your final year.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Building Strong Foundations

In your first year, you’ll cover the essentials of biology, studying modules such as Cell Biology and Genetics, Introduction to Biochemistry A, and Biodiversity. Alongside these, Quantitative Skills for Life Sciences will ensure you’re confident in handling data and applying maths to biological problems.

Year 2: Exploring Specialisms

As you progress, the second year dives deeper into biological processes with modules like Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Genetics, and Interrogating Genomes. You’ll also enhance your lab skills through Biochemistry of Cell Function, gaining hands-on experience with molecular and biochemical techniques.

Year 3: Placement Year (Optional)

You’ll have the option to take a year out for a professional placement, where you can work in a lab, industry, or conservation setting. This is a great chance to apply your skills, grow your confidence, and make valuable industry connections before your final year.

Year 4: Mastering Your Craft

Your final year is where you’ll step up to Master’s-level study. A major independent research project will be at the heart of your year, supported by advanced modules such as Professional Skills and Techniques, Evolution and Animal Development, and Molecular Biology of Cancer. You’ll leave with the skills to design, conduct, and present real scientific research.

Focus Areas : molecular biology; genetics & genomics; biodiversity & conservation; biochemical and cell function; research methodology

Learning Outcomes : By the end of the course, you’ll be able to design and carry out biological research, analyse and interpret complex data, apply advanced lab and field techniques, and communicate science effectively to both academic and professional audiences.

Professional Alignment : This degree is tailored for students who want to move into research or advanced scientific careers, whether in academia, healthcare, or industry. You’ll learn from research-active staff and benefit from strong professional links built by Oxford Brookes.

Reputation : Oxford Brookes has a strong reputation for employability, with graduates moving into competitive research and professional roles. The MBiol is designed to give you a head start by combining undergraduate breadth with Master’s-level depth.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

On the MBiol Biological Sciences course at Oxford Brookes, learning doesn’t just stay in the classroom. You’ll spend a lot of time in the lab, out in the field, and even working on real research projects. The idea is to give you the kind of practical skills that employers and research teams are looking for—so by the time you graduate, you won’t just know the theory, you’ll already have hands-on experience.

Here are some of the ways you’ll learn by doing:

Specialist teaching labs and advanced imaging – from light and electron microscopes to bioinformatics tools, you’ll get access to equipment used by professional scientists.
Field courses in year one – including residential trips (sometimes in places like the Cévennes in France) where you’ll study species and ecosystems directly in their natural environment.
Work placements and experience modules – a chance to apply your learning in real scientific workplaces or take a year in industry.
Independent research project – in your final year, you’ll take on a major project, either in the lab or in the field, working alongside active researchers or partner organisations.
Digital and analytical tools – you’ll develop in-demand skills in data handling, image analysis, and bioinformatics software that are essential in modern biology.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Completing the MBiol Biological Sciences at Oxford Brookes sets you up with more than just a degree — it gives you a strong platform to shape your future. Because it’s an integrated Master’s, you’ll graduate with advanced scientific knowledge and the practical skills employers value. Many of our graduates go into careers such as biotechnology research, environmental consultancy, bioinformatics, or working as scientists in healthcare and industry.

Here’s how Oxford Brookes supports your next steps:

Hands-on experience: You’ll complete a dedicated Work Experience module (minimum 115 hours) to gain professional practice directly linked to your degree.
Professional development: In your final year, the Professional Skills & Techniques module sharpens your lab expertise, data analysis, and science communication, while giving you access to industry professionals.
Industry connections: With links to biotech companies, conservation organisations, NHS Trusts, and access to the Bioinnovation Hub, you’ll have opportunities for placements, internships, and collaborative projects.
Career support: The university’s Careers & Employability Service offers one-to-one advice, tailored workshops, and faculty careers consultants who specialise in Health and Life Sciences.
Graduate success: About 80% of Oxford Brookes biology graduates are in work or further study within 15 months, with an average salary of around £25,000. The unemployment rate is very low — around 5%.

Further Academic Progression:
Your MBiol also opens the door to further study. Many graduates go on to pursue MSc or PhD programmes in areas like molecular biology, ecology, conservation, or bioinformatics. Others choose to specialise even further, building careers in academic research, policy, or biotech innovation.