BSc Hons Biological Science with deferred choice of specialisation With a Year Abroad

At Swansea University, the BSc Hons Biological Science with Deferred Choice of Specialisation with a Year Abroad gives you the chance to learn by doing, both in the lab and in real-world settings. This program is designed to build your confidence and skills, preparing you to tackle exciting challenges in biological science while also enjoying international experiences.

Practical experiences you’ll benefit from include:

• Hands-on Laboratory Work: Gain practical skills in areas like molecular biology, genetics, and ecology using modern, industry-standard equipment.

• Field Trips: Explore diverse ecosystems—from the Gower Peninsula to Borneo and the Indian Himalayas—to observe organisms in their natural environments.

• Year Abroad: Spend a year at a partner university overseas, experiencing different research approaches and cultures.

• Independent Research: Conduct your own final-year research project, applying what you’ve learned to real biological questions.

• Team Projects: Collaborate with classmates on group assignments and presentations, honing teamwork and communication skills.

• Specialist Software: Learn to use bioinformatics and data analysis tools to interpret biological data effectively.

• Student Support: Benefit from personal tutors, peer mentoring, and access to extensive university support services.

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Biological Science with Deferred Choice of Specialisation and a Year Abroad from Swansea University leave with the skills and confidence to pursue a wide range of careers in the biological sciences. With hands-on research, fieldwork, and an international experience built into the course, students are well-equipped to step straight into the workforce or continue their studies. Many alumni have gone on to roles such as Ecologists, Project Officers, Hydrometry and Telemetry Officers, and Benthic Taxonomists.

University Support & Industry Connections:

• Careers and Employability Team: Swansea University provides tailored support through workshops, careers fairs, employer talks, and one-on-one guidance to help you shape your career path.

• International Field Courses: Students can take part in exciting fieldwork opportunities in locations like Puerto Rico and Sikkim, gaining practical experience in real-world ecosystems.

• Royal Society of Biology Accreditation: This accreditation ensures your degree meets high professional and academic standards, valued by employers worldwide.

• Strong Industry Links: Partnerships with organizations like Natural Resources Wales, The British Mammal Society, and The National Wetlands Centre Wales give students great networking opportunities and potential career pathways.

Graduate Outcomes:

• Employment Rate: Around 95% of graduates are employed or pursuing further study within 15 months of finishing the course.

• Graduate Roles: Many alumni work as Ecologists, Project Officers, Hydrometry and Telemetry Officers, and Benthic Taxonomists.

• Salary Expectations: While exact figures vary, biological sciences graduates can expect competitive starting salaries, with growth as experience and specialization increase.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this degree, you could continue your studies through:

• Master’s Programs: Specialize further in areas such as Marine Biology, Environmental Science, or Conservation Biology to enhance expertise and career prospects.

• PhD Research: For those interested in research or academia, a PhD in Ecology, Marine Biology, or Molecular Biology is a natural next step.

• Professional Development: Workshops, certifications, and conferences can help you build skills and stay ahead in your chosen field.

Swansea University’s BSc (Hons) Biological Science with Deferred Choice of Specialisation and a Year Abroad is more than just a degree — it’s a launchpad for a successful career in the biological sciences, combining academic rigor, hands-on experience, and international exposure to give you a real advantage in the job market.