BSc Biological Sciences with Professional Experience

At the University of Reading, the BSc Biological Sciences with Professional Experience gives you the chance to learn by doing. You’ll gain hands-on skills through practical classes, fieldwork, and a dedicated professional placement year, all while working in top-notch facilities and making the most of the university’s unique resources. This combination of classroom learning, lab work, and real-world experience ensures you graduate with both knowledge and confidence.

Some of the key opportunities and facilities include:

• Health and Life Sciences Building – A modern, purpose-built space with flexible teaching labs, research areas, seminar rooms, and quiet study zones, all designed to support active learning.

• Cole Museum of Zoology – Home to over 3,500 specimens, including an Indian elephant skeleton and giant spider crab, giving you hands-on experience with real-world biological collections.

• Harris Garden – The on-campus botanical garden provides an ideal setting for ecological fieldwork and environmental studies.

• Professional Placement Year – An 11-week placement in industry or research during your third year, helping you apply what you’ve learned and build valuable connections.

• Specialized Research Laboratories – Access labs equipped for undergraduate and postgraduate research, where you can explore your own scientific questions.

• Collaborative Spaces – Seminar rooms and study areas designed for group projects, discussions, and independent study.

• Volunteering Opportunities – Contribute to the Cole Museum and other university initiatives while gaining practical experience.

Graduates of the BSc Biological Sciences with Professional Experience at the University of Reading leave with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to pursue a wide range of exciting careers. Typical roles include biomedical scientist, environmental consultant, research assistant, or pharmaceutical researcher. With strong practical experience and industry connections, you’ll be ready to step straight into the professional world or continue your studies:

• Career Support Services: The University of Reading’s Careers, Placement and Experience team helps with CV building, interview preparation, networking, and finding placements or graduate jobs.

• Employment Stats: Around 90% of graduates from the School of Biological Sciences are in work or further study within 15 months of graduation.

• Industry Connections: The program has strong links with organisations such as GSK, IQVIA, NHS, Sanofi, and WSP, giving you opportunities for placements, projects, and collaborations.

• Professional Accreditation: Graduates can join the Royal Society of Biology and apply for Chartered Biologist status, adding significant value to your professional credentials.

• Graduate Outcomes: The emphasis on practical skills, lab work, research, and professional experience ensures that you are well-prepared for both immediate employment and further study.

Further Academic Progression:
After finishing your degree, you could choose to continue your studies with MSc programs in specialized areas of biology or even pursue PhD research. This opens doors to advanced research roles, academic careers, or highly specialised positions in the biotech, healthcare, and environmental sectors.