MSci Biology with Professional Placement

From the very start of Year 1, you’ll step into the world of real biology—not just through textbooks, but with cutting-edge digital tools, modern labs, and immersive fieldwork. The programme is designed so that you don’t just study biology—you experience it in action.

How your learning comes alive

• State-of-the-Art Teaching Labs : Get hands-on straight away in purpose-built labs equipped with everything you need: compound, stereo, and fluorescence microscopes with imaging, PCR machines, gel electrophoresis systems, spectrophotometers, and pH/oxygen meters. These aren’t just demonstrations—you’ll be using this kit from day one.
• Digital Laboratory Manuals (DLMs) : Before you even walk into the lab, you’ll build confidence through interactive digital lab manuals. With simulations, step-by-step guides, and quizzes, they prepare you to make the most of every practical session.
• Research Labs & Mentorship : By your final year, you’ll move beyond set practicals and into real research. Working alongside academics, postgraduate researchers, and technical experts, you’ll take on independent projects that mirror the way professional science is done.
• Fieldwork & Case Studies : Your classroom isn’t just indoors. You’ll study biodiversity and ecosystems up close through Bristol’s Botanic Gardens, glasshouses, and local sites like Leigh Woods and Avon Gorge. Plus, optional field courses—some in the UK, others abroad—give you the chance to explore environments and collect data first-hand.

When you graduate, you’ll be ready to step into impactful careers—whether that’s as a Conservation Scientist, Research Scientist in biotech or the environmental sector, a Science Policy Advisor, or an Environmental Consultant. This degree blends rigorous academic training with hands-on placement experience, giving you exactly the kind of profile employers are looking for.

• Career Support That Works for You : You won’t be left to figure it out alone—the University’s Careers Service offers tailored one-to-one coaching, access to mycareer (for jobs and internships), networking events, and careers fairs. Support continues even after you graduate, with BristolGrad giving you access for up to three years.
• Graduate Employability That Stands Out : Bristol is ranked 7th in the UK and 49th globally for graduate employability (QS, 2022). It’s also the 3rd most targeted university by top UK employers. Graduates from Life Sciences regularly achieve a median starting salary of around £32,000—a clear marker of employer confidence.
• Strong Graduate Outcomes : About 75% of Biology graduates move into highly skilled roles within 15 months, in fields such as conservation, ecological consultancy, and education. Importantly, many say their roles feel meaningful and directly connected to their studies.
• Valuable Industry Connections : While not exclusive to this programme, the Faculty of Life Sciences collaborates with major organisations like Eli Lilly, Syngenta, and several university spin-outs. These links help shape your learning and broaden your professional network.
• Long-Term Professional Value : Your year-long placement isn’t just a box-ticking exercise—it’s a powerful way to stand out in a competitive job market. Employers see real-world experience combined with academic depth as a winning combination, especially in research, environmental science, and biotech.

Further Study Opportunities

For those aiming higher, this MSci is also an excellent springboard to postgraduate study. Many graduates go on to MSc or PhD programmes in ecology, biodiversity, conservation biology, or environmental policy. Your placement year and Bristol’s strong research culture give you a serious advantage when applying for competitive postgraduate opportunities.