Enter OTP
4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
Queens University BelfastThe BSc in Biological Sciences with Professional Studies at Queen’s University Belfast is a four-year program that combines in-depth study of living organisms—from molecules to ecosystems—with a full year of professional experience. It’s perfect for students who want both a strong academic foundation and practical work experience, preparing you for a wide range of careers in the biological sciences.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Foundations in Biology
In your first year, you’ll build a solid grounding in key biological concepts, including cell biology, genetics, and ecology. Modules such as Cell Biology, Genetics and Evolution, and Ecology and Environmental Biology introduce you to core principles, while practical lab sessions and fieldwork help you develop essential hands-on skills.
Year 2: Building Depth and Practical Skills
The second year expands your knowledge with more specialized topics like physiology, microbiology, and biochemistry. Key modules include Physiology and Biochemistry, Microbiology and Biotechnology, and Genetics and Genomics. You’ll continue honing your lab and analytical skills through advanced experiments and collaborative group projects.
Year 3: Professional Experience
This year is all about gaining real-world experience through a 46-week work placement. You’ll apply your academic knowledge in a professional setting, develop industry-relevant skills, and start building your professional network.
Year 4: Independent Research and Specialization
In your final year, you’ll focus on independent research in an area of your choice. Modules like Research Project in Biological Sciences, Advanced Topics in Molecular Biology, and Ecology and Conservation Biology allow you to apply your learning to real-world problems, guided by expert academic staff in state-of-the-art research facilities.
Focus Areas : Molecular Biology, Genetics, Ecology, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Conservation Biology, Research Methodology
Learning Outcomes :
By the end of the program, you will be able to:
Critically analyze and synthesize scientific literature
Design and conduct experiments using appropriate methods
Communicate scientific information clearly to diverse audiences
Apply biological knowledge to real-world problems
Demonstrate professional skills through your work placement
Professional Alignment (Accreditation) : The program is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, ensuring it meets high academic and professional standards. (Link)
Reputation (Employability Rankings) : Queen’s University Belfast is ranked among the top 170 universities worldwide for graduate employability, reflecting the strong career prospects for graduates of this program.
The BSc in Biological Sciences with Professional Studies at Queen’s University Belfast combines academic learning with plenty of hands-on experience. You’ll not only study key biological concepts but also put them into practice through labs, fieldwork, research projects, and a year-long professional placement. This approach ensures you graduate with the skills, confidence, and real-world experience to succeed in your chosen career.
Here’s what you can expect:
46-Week Work Placement – Gain a full year of professional experience between stages 2 and 3, applying your academic knowledge in a real-world environment and developing essential workplace skills.
State-of-the-Art Laboratories – Work in modern labs equipped for research in areas such as agriculture, food science, disease biology, and environmental studies.
Fieldwork Opportunities – Participate in exciting field courses, giving you practical experience in different biological environments.
Research Facilities – Access cutting-edge research equipment and resources during your final year project, helping you develop independent research skills.
Professional Development – Benefit from the program’s accreditation by the Royal Society of Biology, gaining technical and transferable skills valued by employers.
These opportunities ensure you graduate not just with knowledge, but with hands-on experience that makes you highly employable in the biological sciences.
Graduates of the BSc in Biological Sciences with Professional Studies at Queen’s University Belfast are well-prepared for a wide range of careers in the biological sciences. The program’s combination of academic learning and hands-on professional experience equips students with the skills needed for roles such as Biotechnologist, Microbiologist, Biomedical Scientist, and Environmental Consultant.
The university provides extensive support to help you launch your career:
Work Placement Programme – One of the largest and most successful in the UK and Ireland, giving you real-world experience that significantly boosts employability.
Degree Plus – Opportunities to gain additional skills and experience through extracurricular activities, enhancing your professional profile.
Employment Statistics and Salary:
85% Employment Rate – Most graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months of completing the course.
Average Salary – Graduates typically earn around £26,000 per year.
University–Industry Partnerships:
Strong Connections – The School of Biological Sciences works with local, national, and global organizations, providing invaluable placement opportunities and professional networking.
Accreditation and Professional Recognition:
Royal Society of Biology – The program is fully accredited, ensuring it meets high academic and professional standards and equips students with transferable skills valued by employers.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing your degree, you can continue your studies with MSc or PhD programs in fields such as Ecological Management, Conservation Biology, or Leadership for Sustainable Development. These options allow you to specialize further, engage in advanced research, and enhance your career prospects in biological sciences.
A Levels : BBB including Biology and at least one from Chemistry (preferred), Geography, Mathematics or PhysicsIB : 32 points overall including 6,5,5 at Higher Level including Biology and Chemistry (preferred) or Mathematics or Physics or GeographyIELTS : 6.5 minimum of 5.5 in all four elements of the test , TOEFL iBT : 90 with minimum marks as follows : Listening - 17 Reading - 18 Speaking - 20 Writing - 17for India : 75% or higher in Standard Indian XII Higher Secondary School certificates awarded by the central boards (CBSE, CISCE) or a state boardfor USA : AP Tests: Two AP tests with a minimum score of 4 each.for USA : SAT I score of 1290 / ACT score of 27.for USA : High School Diploma with a GPA of 3.0/4.0.All applicants must have GCSE English Language grade C/4 or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University.BiotechnologistMicrobiologistBiomedical ScientistEnvironmental ConsultantPharmaceutical ResearcherGenetic TechnologistClinical Laboratory ScientistEcologistQuality Control ScientistScience Communicator/Publisher
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
