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The BSc Biological Sciences at the University of Reading gives you a broad and exciting insight into the living world, from molecules and cells to whole ecosystems. It’s perfect for students who are curious about how organisms function, adapt, and interact with their environment, and who want a degree that opens doors to careers in research, conservation, or applied biology.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1 – Building Your Foundations
In your first year, you’ll cover the essential principles of biology with modules like Molecular and Cellular Biology, Ecology and Evolution, and Biochemistry. These courses introduce key concepts and lab techniques, giving you the foundation you need for more advanced study later in the degree.
Year 2 – Exploring Specialisms and Skills
Year two is about diving deeper into areas that interest you. Modules such as Genetics and Genomics, Plant and Animal Physiology, and Microbial Biology help you develop practical lab skills and understand how biological knowledge applies in real-world contexts.
Year 3 – Independent Research and Advanced Topics
In your final year, you’ll carry out an independent research project on a topic that fascinates you. Advanced modules like Advanced Topics in Ecology, Molecular Pathology, and Conservation Biology let you explore current issues in depth. Your dissertation will bring together your learning and research experience, preparing you for future careers or postgraduate study.
Focus Areas: Molecular Biology, Ecology, Evolution, Genetics, Conservation Biology, Microbial Sciences, Physiology, Biochemistry
Learning Outcomes: Graduates will be confident in lab techniques, data analysis, scientific communication, and critical thinking. You’ll be able to design and carry out experiments, interpret biological data, and contribute effectively to scientific discussions.
Professional Alignment: While specific accreditation details aren’t listed, the program is designed to prepare you for professional roles in biology, with a strong emphasis on practical skills and research experience.
Reputation: The University of Reading’s School of Biological Sciences has a strong track record: 91.4% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of finishing, and 97% of students report that teaching staff are excellent at explaining things (National Student Survey 2024).
The BSc Biological Sciences at the University of Reading is designed to give you plenty of hands-on experience alongside your lectures. You’ll develop practical skills through lab work, field trips, and independent research, using cutting-edge facilities that make learning interactive and engaging. These experiences not only reinforce what you learn in the classroom but also prepare you for real-world careers in biology.
Here’s what you can look forward to:
Laboratory Work: Get hands-on with cellular, molecular, and biochemical techniques, including DNA and protein analysis, microscopy, and microbial studies.
Research Projects: In your final year, take on an 11-week research project where you tackle real biological questions and apply everything you’ve learned.
Field Trips: Explore natural environments to study ecology and conservation in action, giving your learning a practical context.
Cole Museum of Zoology: Work with over 3,500 specimens, from mammals to insects, in this unique teaching and research resource.
Herbarium: Engage with one of the UK’s largest collections of plant specimens, enhancing your botanical knowledge and research skills.
New Health and Life Sciences Building: Learn and collaborate in a purpose-built facility with modern teaching labs, specialist research labs, seminar rooms, and social spaces.
These opportunities help you build essential skills in lab techniques, data analysis, scientific communication, and critical thinking, ensuring you graduate ready for a career in biological sciences.
Graduates of the BSc Biological Sciences at the University of Reading leave well-equipped for a wide range of careers in biology and related fields. The program’s flexibility means you can tailor your studies to your interests, opening doors to roles in healthcare, agriculture, environmental management, commercial manufacturing, and even publishing. Past graduates have gone on to work with leading organisations such as GSK, IQVIA, NHS, Sanofi, and WSP.
Career Support and Outcomes
Strong Employment Prospects: Around 90% of graduates from the School of Biological Sciences are in work or further study within 15 months of finishing their degree.
Professional Recognition: Graduates can become members of the Royal Society of Biology and are eligible to apply for Chartered Biologist status, giving their career a strong professional edge.
Industry Connections: The university has strong links with industry and research institutions, providing excellent opportunities for placements, collaborations, and real-world experience.
Prepared for the Future: The program emphasizes practical skills and research experience, helping graduates step confidently into the workforce or onto further academic study.
Further Academic Progression
If you’re interested in continuing your studies, the BSc Biological Sciences also serves as a solid foundation for advanced degrees, including MSc programs in specialised areas of biology or PhD research, allowing you to deepen your expertise and career opportunities.
A Levels : ABB with B in Biology, or BBB with B in Biology and B in a second science subject.IB : 32 points including 5 in Biology at higher level.IELTS 6.5, with no component below 5.5 , TOEFL (iBT) - 88for India : Class XII from CBSE or ICSE boards with average marks between 70% and 83%.BTEC Extended Diploma - DDD (modules taken must be comparable to subject specific requirement)for USA : High School Diploma with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and grades ranging from 444 - 554 in three Advanced placement testsfor USA : SAT - 630 - 680 in three SAT Subjects Tests , ACT - 27-29 from a single exam sitting in ACTfor USA : consider SAT General results in lieu of one AP or SAT Subject tests on a case-by-case basisResearch ScientistEnvironmental ConsultantBiomedical ScientistEcologistConservation OfficerScience CommunicatorClinical Trials CoordinatorPharmaceutical ResearcherWildlife BiologistLaboratory Technician
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University of Reading
