BSc Hons Biology with Year Abroad

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Queen Mary University of London

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Biology with Year Abroad at QMUL lets you explore the living world in all its diversity — from molecules and cells to ecosystems and evolution. It’s perfect for curious minds who want hands-on lab experience, fieldwork, and the chance to spend a year abroad gaining international perspective and new scientific insights.


Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Foundations of Biology

Your first year is all about building strong fundamentals. You’ll study topics like Molecular and Cellular Biology, Genetics and Evolution, and Ecology, while developing essential lab and research skills. This is the foundation that prepares you for more specialized study later.

Year 2: Specialization and Research Skills

In the second year, you start diving deeper. Modules like Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics, Comparative Physiology, and Ecological Interactions help you refine your interests. You’ll also gain hands-on experience with research methods and data analysis, preparing for independent projects and your year abroad.

Year 3: Year Abroad

This year is spent at a partner university overseas, giving you the chance to experience different teaching styles, collaborate with international peers, and see biology from a global perspective. It’s an unforgettable opportunity to grow academically and personally.

Year 4: Advanced Topics and Research Project

Back at QMUL, you’ll tackle advanced topics such as Functional Genomics, Neuroscience, and Population Genetics. Your final-year research project lets you explore a biological question in depth, applying your knowledge and skills to real scientific problems.


Focus Areas

Molecular and Cellular Biology, Genetics and Genomics, Ecology and Evolution, Physiology and Behaviour


Learning Outcomes

  • Gain hands-on lab and field experience

  • Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills

  • Conduct independent research projects

  • Build a global perspective through study abroad


Professional Alignment

The program provides a strong foundation for careers in biological sciences and further study, even though it is not formally accredited by a professional body.


Reputation and Employability

QMUL is known for its excellent research and supportive learning environment. Graduates leave prepared for roles in research, conservation, biotech, environmental management, and more, with strong skills in both practical and theoretical biology.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Studying Biology at Queen Mary is about much more than lectures — it’s about doing science. From your very first year, you’ll get hands-on experience in modern laboratories, out in the field, and even abroad. You’ll develop practical skills, learn how to handle real biological data, and see how biology works in the real world.

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

  • State-of-the-art Labs: Work in advanced labs like the Advanced Molecular Imaging Services (AMIS) and CREATE Lab, where you can explore cutting-edge techniques such as tissue engineering and 3D bioprinting.

  • Fieldwork Opportunities: Take part in exciting field trips to places like South Africa and Croatia, studying wildlife, ecosystems, and ecological systems in their natural environments.

  • Independent Research Projects: Design and carry out your own research, choosing topics that interest you and applying what you’ve learned in real experiments.

  • Year Abroad Experience: Spend your third year at a partner university overseas, gaining international academic experience and cultural insight.

  • Collaborations with Leading Institutions: Benefit from partnerships with the Natural History Museum, Kew Gardens, and other top institutions, giving you access to unique research opportunities.

  • Specialised Research Facilities: Use facilities like the Phenotypic Screening Facility for high-throughput analysis and advanced research.

  • Supportive Learning Environment: Learn in a community that encourages curiosity, growth, and collaboration with staff and fellow students.

At QMUL, biology is something you experience, not just study — in the lab, in the field, and around the world.

 

Progression & Future Opportunities

A degree in Biology from QMUL opens the door to a wide range of exciting careers. Graduates leave with strong research skills, hands-on lab and field experience, and international exposure, preparing them for roles in research, conservation, biotech, and environmental management.

Typical Career Paths:
Research Scientist, Conservation Biologist, Environmental Consultant, Biotechnology Analyst

How QMUL Supports You:

  • Careers and Enterprise Centre: Offers one-to-one advice, CV workshops, and interview preparation tailored to biology students.

  • Industry Networking: Access events where you can meet potential employers and learn about career pathways.

  • Internships and Placements: Gain practical experience with partner institutions, museums, and research organisations.

Graduate Outcomes:

  • Around 97% of graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months.

  • Graduates are highly sought after, with strong starting salaries and opportunities in diverse biology-related roles.

Industry Connections:

  • Collaborate with the Natural History Museum and Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, gaining hands-on experience in research and fieldwork.

  • Partnerships with biotech companies and environmental consultancies provide valuable work experience and networking opportunities.


Further Academic Progression:
After your BSc, you could:

  • Pursue a Master’s degree in areas like Environmental Science, Conservation Biology, or Biotechnology.

  • Engage in PhD research to explore a specialist area of interest in depth.

  • Undertake professional certifications or training to enhance career prospects in specific biological science fields.

Program Key Stats

£29,950 (Annual Cost)
£9,535 (Annual cost)
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

ABB
3.3
32
75

N/A
N/A
6.5
-

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Research Scientist
  • Conservation Biologist
  • Ecologist
  • Environmental Consultant
  • Laboratory Technician
  • Biotech Associate
  • Science Educator
  • Wildlife Officer
  • Clinical Trials Assistant
  • Academic Researcher

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