BSc Biological Sciences with an International Year

From your very first year, you’ll dive into hands-on science with advanced labs, practical fieldwork, and global learning experiences. These activities are designed to turn theory into real-world skills—both in Birmingham’s research-focused environment and during your international year abroad.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Collaborative Teaching Laboratory (CTL) & Biolabs: Starting in Year 1, engage in lab-based learning with cutting-edge equipment like gel imaging systems, cell analysers, tissue culture cabinets, and even a 3D printer—fully integrated into interdisciplinary STEM teaching.
• Communication & Skills Module: In Year 2, enhance your scientific writing, ethics understanding, group presentation, and data analysis skills through a dedicated module—preparing you for professional practice.
• International Year Abroad: Year 3 is the highlight! Spend a full academic year studying your core biological sciences content in English at a partner university, broadening both your academic knowledge and cultural understanding.
• Final-Year Research Project: In Year 4, choose a Practical Project, Literature Review, or Education-focused Project (40 credits) alongside specialist modules—developing your research design, analytical skills, and ethical evaluation.
• High-Technology Research Facilities: Back on campus, access top-tier resources such as Advanced Light Microscopy, Mass Spectrometry, Proteomics/Metabolomics, Biomolecular Characterisation, NMR Spectroscopy, Drug Discovery Platforms, Fly Genetics, and advanced Environmental Growth Units.
• Field Course Opportunities: Optionally, enrich your experience through field courses—like Alpine & Glacial Ecology in Norway or Aquatic Adaptations in Wales—bringing biology to life in real-world environments.

Graduates from this programme often move into exciting roles such as Research Scientist, Clinical Laboratory Technician, Geneticist, or Environmental Consultant, benefiting from a strong combination of scientific training and international experience. Birmingham’s extensive Careers Network and strong graduate reputation give students real confidence as they start their professional journeys.

• Careers Network & Work Experience: Students receive personalised career coaching, attend over 300 employer events each year, and access work placements and internships via the Career Network and Be-Experienced programmes.
• Graduate Employability & Salaries: Around 87% of graduates secure graduate-level roles or further study within 15 months. Median starting salaries are approximately £27,500, increasing to £31,500 after three years and £34,500 after five years.
• Industry Partnerships & Innovation Hub: Birmingham fosters research collaboration, including projects with Quest Meat in cultivated meat development, and supports innovation through the Birmingham Health Innovation Campus—a cutting-edge life sciences hub.
• Accreditation & Professional Credibility: The degree is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, providing strong professional recognition and alignment with employer expectations.
• Graduate Outcomes & Satisfaction: Over 85% of Biosciences graduates report their roles are meaningful and closely linked to their studies, with 80% entering highly skilled roles and 85% applying study-based skills in their work.

Further Academic Progression: For those aiming for advanced study, the programme is an excellent foundation for MSc or PhD degrees in genetics, molecular biology, ecology, or environmental science. Graduates are also well-positioned for careers in medicine, research, education, or biotechnology, supported by international exposure and strong career-focused skill development.