4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
The Biological Sciences with a Foundation Year (BSc Hons) at the University of Liverpool is perfect for students who want to pursue a career in biological sciences but need a strong starting point. It gives you a solid grounding in biology while preparing you for more advanced study in areas like genetics, microbiology, ecology, and biochemistry.
Curriculum Structure
Foundation Year (Year 0)
The first year builds your confidence in core scientific skills and knowledge. You’ll study modules like Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Fundamentals of Genetics, and Introduction to Microbiology, which help you understand how cells function, how genes work, and the role of microorganisms in health and disease.
Year 1 – Introduction to Biological Sciences
Here, you’ll dive deeper into key biological concepts. Modules such as Molecular Biology, Ecology and Evolution, and Physiology explore how life works at both the molecular and organism level, and how species interact with each other and their environment.
Year 2 – Advanced Biological Sciences
This year focuses on more specialized knowledge. You’ll explore Genomics and Bioinformatics, Immunology, and Cell Signalling, giving you the tools to analyze genetic information, understand the immune system, and study how cells communicate.
Year 3 – Research and Specialization
In your final year, you’ll take on a research project and select advanced modules like Cancer Biology, Neurobiology, or Environmental Biology. You’ll also develop professional skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving to prepare you for your career or further study.
Focus Areas: Molecular Biology, Genetics, Microbiology, Ecology, Physiology, Immunology, Bioinformatics, Research Methodology
Learning Outcomes: Graduates will be able to understand and apply biological concepts, conduct independent research, analyze and interpret data, communicate scientific information clearly, and work effectively in a lab team.
Professional Alignment: This program prepares you for careers in biological sciences or further postgraduate study, equipping you with the skills and knowledge needed for research roles, healthcare, or industry positions.
Reputation: Liverpool is recognised for its strong teaching and research in biological sciences and has excellent graduate employability outcomes.
At Liverpool, learning goes beyond the classroom. In the Biological Sciences with a Foundation Year program, you’ll gain hands-on experience in labs, out in the field, and through real research projects, so you’re not just studying biology—you’re living it. From the very first year, you’ll develop practical skills, work with cutting-edge tools, and experience how science operates in real-world settings:
Laboratory Work: Conduct experiments in modern labs like the Biosciences Building and Human Anatomy Resource Centre.
Field Courses: Apply your knowledge on trips to places such as the Lake District, South Africa, and France.
Research Projects: Carry out independent projects that build problem-solving and analytical skills.
Industry Placements: Gain practical experience and make professional connections through placements in research institutions and industry.
Specialized Software Training: Learn to use software tools for biological data analysis and research.
Collaborative Learning: Work on group projects and seminars to strengthen teamwork and communication skills.
Access to Research Centres: Explore cutting-edge science at facilities like the Centre for Cell Imaging and the Centre for Genomic Research.
These opportunities ensure you leave the program with both the theoretical knowledge and the practical skills needed to succeed in biological sciences, whether in research, industry, or further study.
Graduating from the Biological Sciences with a Foundation Year (BSc Hons) program at Liverpool opens the door to a wide range of exciting careers in biological sciences. The program’s combination of practical lab experience, research projects, and strong academic grounding prepares you for roles such as biomedical scientist, clinical researcher, laboratory manager, or medical science liaison:
University Support & Services:
Careers and Employability Service: Personalized guidance, career planning, job market insights, and networking support.
Industry Placements: Opportunities to gain hands-on experience in research institutions and industries.
Graduate Trainee Programme: Helps graduates smoothly transition into professional roles.
Employment & Industry Connections:
Strong graduate employability with many securing jobs within six months of graduation.
Partnerships with national and international research institutions and industries provide real-world experience and networking opportunities.
Accreditation & Career Value:
The program is recognized by professional bodies and employers, giving your degree long-term credibility and enhancing career prospects.
Graduation Outcomes:
Alumni have gone on to careers in healthcare, research, and industry, applying their practical and research skills in real-world settings.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, you can continue your studies in specialized areas of biological sciences. Options include postgraduate programs like the MRes in Biological and Biomedical Sciences, which develops advanced research skills and deepens subject knowledge. This path can also lead to PhD studies or research-focused roles in academia and industry.
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