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The BSc Biological Sciences at the University of Edinburgh offers a flexible, research-led education that lets you explore the diversity of life—from genes and cells to ecosystems—before choosing your specialisation. As a student, you'll gain hands-on skills in data analysis, programming, communication, and independent thinking, all in world-class lab and field environments.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1
In your first year, you’ll establish a strong foundation in key biological concepts through compulsory courses like Biology 1A: Variation and Biology 1B: Life, alongside optional modules such as Biological Chemistry 1A. These courses lay the groundwork for analytical thinking while offering room to explore elective subjects across the University. The University of
Year 2
Year 2 sees the beginning of specialisation, where you will continue deepening your understanding through more focused topics across the 12 subject areas available. You also select your preferred Honours programme at the end of this year—whether that's Genetics, Zoology, Cell Biology, or another field—supported by both core and elective course choices.
Year 3
As a third-year student, you'll engage in highly specialized courses within your chosen Honours area, gaining advanced theoretical insight and practical expertise. Course offerings will reflect the depth of your selected field, preparing you for independent research and critical scientific thinking.
Year 4 (Senior Honours Year)
Your final year is a capstone experience, combining advanced coursework with a major independent research project. This year emphasizes familiarity with modern lab or field techniques, interpreting scientific literature, and presenting your findings through individual or small-group tutorials.
Focus Areas
"Explore a breadth of 12 specialised subject areas—including Biochemistry, Ecology, Genetics, Immunology, Plant Science, Zoology, Molecular Biology, and more—tailoring your later years to reflect your passion and career goals."
Learning Outcomes
"Graduates will be equipped with analytical, quantitative, computational, communication and independent research skills, along with the adaptability to apply biological insights across diverse contexts and industries." Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
The programme doesn’t list specific professional accreditations, but its strong development of transferable and scientific methods–oriented skills aligns closely with careers in research, policy, healthcare, and beyond.
Reputation (Employability Rankings)
The School of Biological Sciences is part of a university consistently ranked among the world’s top 25 for Biological Sciences in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025.
At Edinburgh, you’ll immerse yourself in hands-on experiences that bring biology to life—from cutting-edge laboratories and real-world field sites to interactive computing environments and collaborative classrooms that spark curiosity and teamwork. You’ll build essential practical skills—from DNA sequencing to microscopy and data analysis—using advanced technology as you move confidently toward becoming a skilled, independent biologist.
Here's how this looks in practice:
State-of-the-art laboratories with equipment tailored for diverse biological investigations, supporting everything from molecular experiments to organismal studies.
Interactive computing studio facilities that allow you to apply programming, data analysis, and modeling skills directly to biological datasets.
Collaborative lecture theatres designed to support dynamic, discussion-based learning and group work in up-to-date educational settings.
Fieldwork experiences at iconic local sites like the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, giving you real-world exposure to ecology and environmental biology.
Independent research projects in your final (honours) year conducted in academic research laboratories—perfect preparation for postgraduate study or research careers.
Access to core School of Biological Sciences research facilities, including:
Edinburgh Genomics (DNA sequencing and bioinformatics)
EdinOmics (proteomics & metabolomics with mass spectrometry)
Flow Cytometry Core Facility (advanced cell analysis & sorting)
Light Microscopy Core (imaging technologies with image analysis)
Structural Biology Core (electron microscopy, crystallography, computational methods)
Edinburgh Plant Growth Facility (greenhouses, pathogen containment, soil systems)
Graduates from the BSc Biological Sciences programme at Edinburgh move into thriving roles such as lab technician, field assistant, science communication officer, and science policy advisor, showcasing the versatility of the degree. The University’s award-winning Careers Service and cutting-edge industry partnerships mean you're not just graduating—you’re launching a science-powered career with confidence—here’s how:
Careers Service support: The University’s dedicated Careers Service offers tailored one-to-one consultations, practice interviews, career workshops, and access to MyCareerHub—a hub for internships, part-time jobs, and graduate opportunities. Support continues for two years post-graduation.
Graduate outcomes & salary outlook: Surveys report biological sciences graduates finding their way into diverse sectors like conservation, laboratory roles, policy, and communications. Average bioscience salaries 15 months post-graduation typically range between £21,000 and £29,000, rising to around £31,500 by five years after graduation.
University–industry connections: The School maintains strong collaborative ties across pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and agricultural sectors—from summer placements to dissertation projects and CASE PhD studentships—embedding you in real-world science from day one.
Dynamic research ecosystem: Beyond job placements, the University is central to initiatives like Edinburgh BioQuarter, a partnership hub uniting NHS Lothian, the City Council, and Scottish Enterprise, offering pathways into life sciences innovation and biotech start-ups.
Long-term value: Completing a degree from Edinburgh means more than academic achievement—it provides a respected qualification backed by global academic prestige and a vast alumni network, adding trust and credibility to your CV.
Further Academic Progression:
After your BSc, you’ve got rich opportunities for further study. Many graduates choose to continue within the University—whether that’s pursuing master’s degrees in fields like Genetics, Ecology, or Molecular Biology, enrolling in PhD programmes, or exploring interdisciplinary routes that tap into Edinburgh’s research strengths. The strong research orientation of your undergraduate training—especially the independent honours project—positions you perfectly for advanced academic or industry-driven research degrees.
Standard Scottish Higher offer: AABB (with Biology and Chemistry at B or above), including a Grade A in one of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, or Physics.Applicants must achieve ABB–AAA at A-Level, including Biology and Chemistry, with one of those subjects at Grade A in the same sitting. GCSE requirements: Maths or Physics at B (or Grade 6) and English at C (or Grade 4).International Baccalaureate (IB): Standard offer is 37 points with 6, 6, 6 at Higher Level (HL), including HL Biology and Chemistry at grade 5; minimum accessible offer is 32 points with 6-5-5 at HL.English language proficiency (if English is not your first language): IELTS Academic: Overall 6.5, minimum 5.5 in each component. TOEFL iBT: Overall 92, with at least 20 in each sectionStudents with high-level qualifications in relevant subjects—especially via A-Levels or equivalent—may be considered for Advanced Standing, which allows direct entry into Year 2.Lab TechnicianField AssistantConservation ScientistScience Policy AdvisorScience Communicator (journalism/publishing/outreach)Clinical ResearcherBiotechnology SpecialistEconomics & Finance AnalystPolitics & Policy AdvisorForensic Scientist
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University of Edinburgh
