Biological Sciences BSc (Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Northumbria University

Program Overview

If you’re curious about how life works—from the level of genes and cells right through to whole ecosystems—Northumbria’s Biological Sciences BSc (Hons) is a degree that lets you explore it all. You’ll get a solid grounding in core biology, then the chance to shape your degree around areas you’re most passionate about, like biotechnology or neurobiology. Along the way, you’ll be building practical lab experience and can even add a placement year or study abroad to make your CV stand out.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Laying the Foundations
Your first year covers the essentials of biology, with modules like Cell Biology and Genetics, Anatomy and Physiology, and Practical Skills. These are designed to give you confidence in the lab and a clear overview of how living systems work.

Year 2: Exploring Your Interests
In second year, you’ll start tailoring your studies. Core modules like Molecular Biology and Genetics and Biology of Disease give you deeper insight into health and disease, while options such as Environmental Biology or Investigative Biotechnology let you explore different career paths.

Year 3: Specialisation and Research
Your final year is where everything comes together. You’ll complete a major research project, develop advanced lab techniques, and apply your learning to real-world contexts. Whether you choose to specialise in biotechnology, neurobiology, or another pathway, this year prepares you for your next step—whether that’s work or postgraduate study.

Focus areas: Cell Biology, Genetics, Biotechnology, Neurobiology, Environmental Biology, Molecular Biology, Analytical Techniques

Learning outcomes: You’ll graduate with strong practical lab skills, the ability to analyse and present data, independent research experience, and the flexibility to move into a wide range of careers or further study.

Professional alignment (accreditation): Courses in Northumbria’s Department of Applied Sciences are recognised by leading professional bodies such as the Royal Society of Chemistry, Institute of Biomedical Science, and others—giving your degree long-term value in the job market.

Reputation (employability rankings):

Northumbria has a 94% graduate employment rate within 12 months of finishing a degree.
Biological Sciences graduates have gone on to work in biotech, healthcare, research, teaching, and environmental sectors, with employers like GlaxoSmithKline, Covance, and Brenntag.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

On this course, you won’t just be studying biology from textbooks — you’ll be putting your knowledge into practice right from the start. From working in specialist laboratories to exploring real ecosystems on field trips, you’ll build the kind of practical and digital skills that employers and researchers are looking for. Northumbria makes sure you get the best mix of hands-on science, modern technology, and guided research experience.

Here’s how your learning comes to life:

Animal & Plant Biology – get involved in lab and field investigations, using specialist software to explore biodiversity and learn species identification.
Biology in Action – carry out projects such as testing how plants respond to herbicides or observing animal behaviour, with full training in data collection and analysis.
Applied Sciences Laboratories – access facilities for molecular biology, microbiology, spectroscopy, chromatography, and advanced imaging, including PCR machines and next-generation sequencing.
Practical Skills Development – train in core lab techniques like microscopy, enzyme analysis, and buffer preparation to build strong foundations for later research.
Technology-Enhanced Learning – make use of digital tools, online learning platforms, and ICT resources to support experiments, coursework, and group projects.
Fieldwork Opportunities – take part in trips to natural habitats where you’ll practice sampling techniques and ecological surveys, all tied into your project work.

These experiences ensure that by the time you graduate, you’ll already have worked like a scientist, gaining the confidence and practical expertise that make you stand out.

Progression & Future Opportunities

A degree in Biological Sciences from Northumbria opens doors to a wide range of exciting career paths. Whether you see yourself working in research, healthcare, biotechnology, or the environment, this course gives you the skills and knowledge employers are looking for. Graduates have gone on to roles such as Environmental Consultant, Biotechnologist, Research Scientist, and Laboratory Technician.

To help you get there, Northumbria offers strong career support and valuable industry links:

Career support throughout your degree – The Graduate Futures team helps with CV building, interview prep, and finding placements so you can step confidently into the job market.
Real-world experience – Many students take a work placement year, gaining hands-on experience in labs, industry, or research projects that really strengthen your CV.
Industry and research partnerships – You’ll benefit from collaborations with organisations like Procter & Gamble and projects in diagnostics, synthetic biology, and environmental biotech.
Strong employment outcomes – Many biosciences graduates secure work within 6–15 months, with starting salaries around £23,000–£31,000, depending on the role.
Valuable long-term skills – From advanced lab techniques to data analysis and problem-solving, the degree equips you with versatile skills employers want across multiple sectors.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’d like to continue your studies, you can progress to postgraduate options such as MSc Biotechnology, MSc Environmental Science, MSc Conservation or Neurobiology, or even take the research route with a PhD. Many graduates also choose to gain professional qualifications to support careers in education, healthcare, or applied research.