BSc Biological Sciences with Placement Year

At Sheffield, your science journey begins with practice—not just theory. From day one, you'll hone practical and professional skills through lab work, field studies, and real-world placement experiences—supported by state-of-the-art facilities and research-led teaching:

Here’s what makes it truly hands-on:

• Skills in Biology / Molecular Teaching Labs
  In Year 1, you'll dive into the “Skills in Biology” and “Skills in Molecular Biosciences” modules, mastering essential practical techniques—microscopy, experimental design, data visualization, and scientific communication—all through interactive experiments and group projects.

• Field Visits to Bring Theory to Life
  Take your learning outdoors with field trips to locations like zoos, aquariums, and nature reserves designed to expose you to biodiversity, ecological surveys, and real-world biological investigation.

• Cutting-Edge Research Applications & NHS Partnerships
  You’ll get to observe and participate in research on cancer and ageing through direct collaboration with the Sheffield Teaching Hospitals—linking your studies to real clinical science.

• Year-Long Professional Placement
  In Year 3, you’ll apply your academic learning on a fully remunerated work placement with organizations such as GSK, P&G, Kew Gardens, Middlemarch Environmental, Paraxel, and Sydney Environmental Group—experiencing practical, real-world science in action.

• Research-Led Final-Year Projects
  Back on campus in Year 4, you'll use your placement insight to tackle an independent research project—whether in the lab, field, through digital modeling, or science communication, building your confidence and research skills.

• Research-Led Learning Environment & Library Access
  Learning continues in world-class lecture theatres, labs, and small-group tutorials, backed by 24/7 digital access to the university library and specialist support for presentations, writing, and beyond.

Graduates from this degree often step confidently into roles such as Research Scientist, Environmental Consultant, Lab Technician, or Pharmaceutical Researcher, combining solid academic grounding with hands-on placement experience:

• Industry Placement & Career Support
  Your third year is spent on a fully integrated, paid placement with organizations like GSK, P&G, Kew Gardens, Middlemarch Environmental, Paraxel, and Sydney Environmental Group—giving you practical insight and a competitive edge from day one.
  The University Careers Service partners with the School of Biosciences to offer CV workshops, employer networking sessions, and personalised placement support.

• Strong Research Reputation & Employability
  Sheffield ranks 4th in the UK for research quality (REF 2021), with 98% of biosciences research rated as world-leading or internationally excellent—your learning is embedded in cutting-edge science.

• Royal Society of Biology Accreditation
  The course is officially accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, a mark of academic quality and industry relevance—reinforcing your credentials for employers and postgraduate pathways.

• Graduate Outcomes & Transferable Skills
  Employers recognize Sheffield graduates for their ability to communicate complex ideas, manage projects, work in teams, and analyze data effectively—skills developed through structured placements and multimodal learning experiences.

Further Academic Progression:
Building on your placement experience and specialised modules, you’re well placed to progress into MSc research programmes, enter PhD study, or transition into professional training in sectors like environmental consultancy, pharmaceuticals, academia, or healthcare.