BSc Hons Biological Science with deferred choice of specialisation

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Swansea University

Program Overview

If you love biology but aren’t sure which area to specialise in yet, this degree is perfect for you. It gives you a strong foundation across all biological sciences while letting you explore different fields—like marine biology, zoology, or ecology—before deciding on your focus in the later years.


Curriculum Structure

Year 1 – Exploring the foundations:
Your first year introduces you to the essentials of biology with modules like Molecular and Evolutionary Biology, Cell Biology, and Ecology and Environmental Science. You’ll build a solid understanding of biological principles while gaining practical lab and field skills to prepare you for more advanced topics.

Year 2 – Building your skills:
In the second year, you’ll dive deeper into subjects such as Genetics and Genomics, Physiology and Biochemistry, and Microbiology. This year focuses on hands-on learning through lab work and field studies, helping you develop practical skills and a clearer sense of which area you might want to specialise in.

Year 3 – Specialisation and research:
In your final year, you’ll focus on the area that interests you most—options include Marine Biology, Zoology, or Ecology and Conservation. You’ll also carry out an independent research project, putting into practice everything you’ve learned and making your degree uniquely your own.


Focus Areas: Marine Biology, Zoology, Ecology, Conservation, Genetics, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Evolutionary Biology, Environmental Science

Learning Outcomes: Gain a broad understanding of biological sciences, develop hands-on lab and fieldwork experience, conduct independent research, solve complex scientific problems, and communicate scientific information effectively.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Designed to meet the expectations of professional bodies in biological sciences, preparing you for careers in research, education, and industry.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): Swansea University is known for its strong research and quality teaching, with graduates securing roles in academia, biotechnology, conservation, and beyond.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Swansea University, we believe the best way to learn biology is by doing it. Throughout this program, you’ll gain hands-on experience in modern laboratories, take part in field trips, and work on real-world projects that give you practical skills and confidence for your future career.

Here’s what you can expect:

  • State-of-the-art labs: Work in the recently refurbished Wallace Building laboratories, fully equipped for research in genetics, microbiology, biochemistry, and more.

  • Marine biology field trips: Explore marine ecosystems firsthand in locations like Borneo and the Red Sea, putting your classroom knowledge into practice.

  • Zoology fieldwork: Study wildlife in its natural habitat through local and international field courses.

  • Cutting-edge research facilities: Access specialist labs for experiments and projects across multiple biological disciplines.

  • Industry collaborations: Gain experience through partnerships with organizations like Natural Resources Wales and The British Mammal Society, offering opportunities for internships and collaborative projects.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from this program gives you a strong foundation across biological sciences while letting you focus on the areas that interest you most. You’ll be well-prepared for a variety of careers in research, healthcare, conservation, and biotechnology, with common roles including Biologist, Environmental Consultant, Research Scientist, and Laboratory Technician.

Swansea University also provides plenty of support to help you launch your career:

  • Career and Employability Services: One-to-one advice, CV workshops, and interview preparation specifically for biology graduates.

  • Employment Insights: Many alumni secure positions in research labs, environmental consultancies, and healthcare settings, with starting salaries typically between £22,000–£30,000.

  • Industry Connections: Opportunities for internships and collaborative projects with organisations like Natural Resources Wales and The British Mammal Society.

  • Professional Recognition: The degree meets professional standards in biological sciences, giving your career a solid foundation.

  • Graduation Outcomes: Alumni move into research, conservation, public health, or continue with further academic study.


Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, you can pursue postgraduate studies such as an MSc in Marine Biology, Genetics, Microbiology, or Ecology, or professional qualifications in biotechnology, environmental management, or healthcare.

Program Key Stats

£23,100 (Annual cost)
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

ABB
N/A
32
70

N/A
N/A
6.0
-

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Biotechnology
  • Economics
  • Politics and Policy
  • Forensic Science
  • Environmental Science
  • Genetic Engineering
  • Molecular Biology
  • Public Health
  • Data Science
  • Pharmaceutical Science
  • Clinical Research
  • Biomedical Technology
  • Health Policy
  • Bioinformatics
  • Industrial Microbiology

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