BSc Honours Biological Sciences with Foundation

The BSc Honours Biological Sciences with Foundation at the University of Westminster is ideal for students who are passionate about biological sciences but may not meet the direct entry requirements for a standard degree. This four-year, full-time program begins with a foundation year to build essential scientific knowledge and skills, followed by three years of in-depth study in specialized areas of biology. Students can tailor their learning to focus on fields such as molecular science, human biology, or applied biosciences, preparing them for exciting careers in research, healthcare, or environmental work.

Curriculum Structure

Foundation Year (Year 0):
The foundation year helps students develop the core scientific knowledge and academic skills needed for degree-level study. Modules include Biology, Chemistry, Introduction to Physiology, Critical Thinking for Academic and Professional Development, and Introduction to Academic Practice. These courses provide a strong grounding in biological systems and scientific methods, preparing students for more advanced study.

Year 1:
The first year builds on the foundation with fundamental concepts in biological sciences. Core modules include Applications of Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Human Physiology, Functional Anatomy, Principles of Human Nutrition, Fundamentals of Pharmacology, Professional Development in Science (PRoDS), and Science: History, Practice, and Philosophy. Students gain a broad understanding of how living organisms function and how structure and processes are interconnected.

Year 2:
In the second year, students dive into more specialized topics. Modules include Applied Pathobiology, Bioinformatics, Diet in Health and Disease, Genetics in Medicine, Human Parasitology, Infection and Immunity, Medical Genetics and Genomics, Medical Physiology, Metabolic Biochemistry, Molecular and Cellular Therapeutics, Neuroscience, and Research Methods. This year strengthens students’ understanding of molecular mechanisms in health and disease and prepares them for both research and clinical applications.

Year 3:
The final year focuses on advanced topics and independent research. Core modules include Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Clinical Immunology and Immunohaematology, Diagnostic Biochemistry and Haematology, Final Year Project in Life Sciences, and Medical Microbiology in the Genomics Era. Students undertake a lab-based final-year project, applying research methods to real scientific questions and gaining hands-on experience in their chosen area of interest.

Focus Areas: Molecular biology, human biology, applied biosciences, pharmacology, medical genetics, immunology, bioinformatics, neuroscience.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates will be confident in scientific research methods, able to critically analyse biological data, understand the mechanisms behind human health and disease, and communicate complex scientific information effectively.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, helping students meet part of the academic and experience requirements for becoming a Chartered Biologist.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): The University of Westminster is known for strong employability outcomes, with graduates securing roles in healthcare, research, education, and beyond.