Enter OTP
This degree gives you the freedom to explore the full spectrum of biology—whether that’s the tiny molecular switches inside cells or the dynamics of whole ecosystems—before narrowing your focus as your interests take shape. It’s designed for curious, hands-on learners who want their science to make a difference in the real world.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1
Your first year lays the groundwork across the major areas of biology. You’ll study core units like Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, From Molecules to Cells, Biodiversity, and Genes, Evolution & Development, while building confidence in the lab and learning to handle data. To bring your studies alive, you’ll also have the chance to join field courses—either in the UK or overseas—where you’ll see biology in action beyond the classroom.
Year 2
In second year, you’ll strengthen your scientific toolkit with Organismal Biology, Science Communication, and Research Skills. Alongside these, you’ll choose optional modules to shape your own pathway—ranging from Genetics and Immunology to Endocrinology, Microbiology, or Cell Metabolism. This balance of structure and choice helps you begin to carve out a specialism that excites you most.
Year 3
Your final year is about independence and expertise. You’ll design and carry out your own research project under the supervision of Manchester’s world-class academics, gaining first-hand experience of the scientific process. Specialist modules and research-led seminars will push your knowledge further, while advanced data analysis and critical thinking skills prepare you for life after graduation.
Focus areas
“Core biological disciplines, research skills, scientific communication, optional specialisms, independent research.”
Learning outcomes
“Build a solid biological foundation, develop practical lab and field experience, sharpen your research and communication skills, and gain the independence to design and conduct your own scientific investigations.”
Professional alignment (accreditation)
This degree sits within Manchester’s accredited bioscience framework, recognised for high-quality training and flexibility. You’ll also have options to extend into an industry placement or progress into an integrated master’s—further boosting your professional edge.
Reputation (employability ranking)
The University of Manchester is renowned for research-led teaching and immersive learning, from labs to international fieldwork. Its strong reputation in biological sciences and track record of graduate employability open doors across research, conservation, communication, policy, and industry roles.
When you study Biology at Manchester, you won’t just sit in lectures—you’ll get out into the field, step into state-of-the-art labs, and use the same tools and techniques that professional scientists rely on. From exploring wild ecosystems to tackling experiments in cutting-edge facilities, your learning is designed to be as practical as it is academic:
Field courses in the UK and abroad – Immerse yourself in biology on trips that could take you to coastal marine habitats, Mediterranean ecosystems, or animal behaviour studies in natural environments.
Research-led practical training – Build confidence in the lab by mastering techniques used in biotechnology, molecular biology, and ecological sampling, guided by leading researchers.
Interdisciplinary digital skills – Strengthen your communication and analysis with modules such as Science Communication and options from the University College for Interdisciplinary Learning.
World-class facilities – Work in advanced bioscience labs and benefit from access to specialist institutes like the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, where cutting-edge research meets teaching.
Independent research project – In your final year, take on a capstone project where you’ll design and carry out your own study, supported by expert supervision and top-tier resources.
A Biology degree from Manchester sets you up with the kind of skills that employers really value—problem-solving, analytical thinking, communication, and hands-on lab and field experience. That’s why graduates go on to thrive in so many different paths, from science and conservation to health, policy, and even business.
Here’s how Manchester helps you prepare for what comes next:
Personalised career support – The Careers Service is there to guide you every step of the way, with help on CVs, interview prep, workplace skills, and tailored advice. Support doesn’t stop at graduation—it continues for up to two years after your degree.
Wide range of graduate destinations – Many students move into scientific research, biotech, or ecology roles (often after postgraduate study), while others succeed in teaching, science communication, policy, or even sectors like finance and marketing.
Industry and research connections – With Manchester’s strong bioscience networks and research hubs on your doorstep, you’ll have opportunities to connect with experts, take part in placements, and build valuable professional links.
Accredited pathways – If you opt for the four-year course with industrial placement, you’ll gain Advanced Accreditation from the Royal Society of Biology, giving you a head start in research careers and professional recognition.
A degree with global weight – Manchester is one of the UK’s most targeted universities by top employers and consistently ranks in the world’s top 40. A degree from here is a real door-opener, wherever your career takes you.
Further study options – Whether you’re aiming for a master’s, PhD, or professional training in medicine, veterinary science, or teaching, this degree gives you the academic grounding and research experience to take that next step.
IB Overall 35–36 points, with Higher Level grades 6,6,6–6,6,5 in relevant subjects. We require grades AAA-AAB, including two of Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics (the Core Sciences ). You must have a minimum of grades AA in at least two Core Sciences.IELTS 6.5 overall (no less than 6.0/6.5 per component) OR TOEFL iBT 92 overall (23 in each section).Only one application to related degrees (like Biological Sciences streams at Edinburgh); strong personal statement and academic reference are required via UCAS.Applicants must demonstrate a broad general education including acceptable levels of Literacy and Numeracy, equivalent to at least Grade 4 or C in GCSE/IGCSE English Language and Mathematics.GCSE/IGCSE English Literature will not be accepted in lieu of GCSE/IGCSE English Language.AS-level results are not considered as part of the standard admissions process at The University of Manchester.Contextual offer Contextual offer: AAB-ABB (including specific subjects). Typical WP++ Contextual offer: ABB-ABC (including specific subjects).3 A-levels (at scores such as A*, A, B); and GCSE English and Mathematics/Science (at scores such as A or 7, B or 6, C or 4).for USA : SAT I with a score of 1290. ACT with a minimum score of 27. High School diploma with a minimum of 3.0 and grade 12 classes at the grade equivalency of a GCSE exam (for example, A in Mathematics in grade 12 is equivalent to 7 in GCSE in Mathematics).BiotechnologistForensic ScientistPolicy AdvisorEconomistPolitical AnalystBiomedical ScientistClinical Research AssociateScience Policy ResearcherPharmaceutical ConsultantEnvironmental Biotechnologist
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University of Manchester
