BSc (Hons) Biology (with Foundation Year)

At UCLan, learning goes far beyond lectures — you’ll get hands-on experience that brings biology to life. From your foundation year onwards, you’ll spend time in modern laboratories, using specialist equipment to explore everything from cellular processes to ecological systems. The university’s facilities are designed to help you develop practical skills, work collaboratively, and apply scientific theory in real-world contexts, ensuring you’re ready for professional or research environments.

Here’s how your practical experience is structured:

• State-of-the-art Laboratories & Equipment
  You’ll work in well-equipped labs for cell biology, microbiology, and ecology, using tools like microscopes, spectrophotometers, and molecular biology kits. These labs let you explore real biological systems and develop confidence in professional lab techniques.

• Independent Research & Projects
  In your final year, you’ll carry out an independent research project, allowing you to design experiments, gather and analyse data, and present your findings. This experience develops critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and scientific communication.

• Fieldwork & Practical Excursions
  Modules in ecology and conservation include practical fieldwork opportunities, helping you understand organisms and ecosystems in their natural environments. These experiences also teach essential observational and data collection techniques.

• Collaborative Learning & Digital Tools
  Many lab and project sessions are team-based, giving you experience in group research and collaboration. You’ll also use digital tools for data analysis, statistical software, and scientific imaging to enhance your investigations.

• Comprehensive Learning Environment
  You’ll benefit from purpose-built facilities such as the Darwin Building and JB Firth Building, along with access to the university library and online resources to support your studies and research.

Graduating from this program opens up a wide range of career opportunities in research, education, environmental management, and biotechnology. Many students go on to become Research Assistants, Laboratory Technicians, Environmental Consultants, or take roles in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. Others may continue into postgraduate study or professional training:

• Tailored Career Support
  UCLan’s Careers Service provides one-to-one guidance, CV and interview support, networking events, and advice on placements and graduate roles in biology, research, and industry.

• Strong Employment Outcomes
  UCLan graduates enjoy excellent prospects, with most finding employment or further study shortly after graduation. Biology graduates often secure roles in research labs, environmental agencies, conservation organisations, or educational institutions, with competitive starting salaries that grow as experience develops.

• Industry Partnerships
  The university maintains partnerships with research centres, environmental organisations, and biotech companies, providing students with opportunities for placements, field projects, and exposure to real-world applications of their studies.

• Long-Term Value of the Degree
  While this program is academically focused rather than professionally regulated, the knowledge and skills you gain are highly valued by employers and postgraduate programs, giving you a strong foundation for a wide range of careers.

• Graduate Success
  Many graduates progress quickly into skilled roles, while others pursue postgraduate degrees or professional development programs, showing the flexibility and long-term value of this qualification.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing your degree, you can continue your studies with a Master’s degree in areas such as Molecular Biology, Environmental Biology, Biotechnology, or Conservation Science. You could also pursue research opportunities, professional development programs, or even a PhD if you wish to specialise further in your chosen field. This program gives you a strong foundation and the flexibility to shape your career or academic path according to your interests.