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4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
University of ManchesterThis four-year BSc Biology with Industrial/Professional Experience allows you to build a solid foundation in biology, enriched by a third-year work placement—either in the UK or abroad—making your degree stand out and your CV shine. With a curriculum rooted in scientific excellence and hands-on experience, it’s perfect for students ready to dive deep into biology and launch a meaningful career.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1, you'll explore a broad spectrum of biology through foundational modules—expect to study core disciplines such as cell biology, ecology, and genetics, setting the stage for advanced exploration and interdisciplinary learning.
Year 2, you can start tailoring your path by opting into specialised units and even engaging in courses offered by the University College for Interdisciplinary Learning, blending biology with fresh ideas from other fields.
Year 3 is your industrial or professional placement year, working with our trusted partners (such as pharmaceutical companies, research institutes, or conservation organisations) either in the UK or overseas—an invaluable real-world experience that enhances your skills and employment prospects.
Year 4, you’ll return to Manchester and complete advanced biological studies, applying your workplace learning to specialised electives and capstone projects to round out your knowledge and prepare for your next steps.
Focus Areas
"Core biological sciences, interdisciplinary integration, and real-world industry exposure"
Learning Outcomes
"Gain mastery across biological disciplines, develop hands-on practical and interdisciplinary skills, and build employability through professional placement experience"
Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
This programme carries Advanced Accreditation from the Royal Society of Biology, meaning you're eligible to apply for Member status (MRSB) after just two years of professional practice—one year sooner than usual—paving the way to become a Chartered Biologist or Scientist faster.
Reputation (Employability Rankings)
The University of Manchester is part of the prestigious Russell Group, ranked among the UK’s research powerhouses—fifth in research strength and sixth nationally by QS rankings. It’s also the most targeted UK university by top employers, making this degree particularly well-placed for future career success.
You’ll develop practical scientific skills from day one, using top-tier facilities and engaging in real-world projects that go beyond the lecture hall. Whether you’re perfecting lab techniques, conducting field research, or applying your knowledge in industry, the university ensures you’re well-equipped for success:
Here’s what makes your learning truly immersive:
Field trips embedded in your course give you firsthand exposure to ecological and organismal biology outside the classroom
A dedicated industrial/professional placement year (Year 3) lets you work with partners like AstraZeneca, GSK, Mayo Clinic, Kew Gardens, and more—bridging academic theory with real-world application
Access to leading research institutes, such as the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology and the Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, where hands-on, interdisciplinary bioscience research happens
Laboratory and field research placements, giving you cutting-edge practical experience across biological and biomedical settings
Opportunities for sustainability projects and interdisciplinary collaborations, like tackling real-world challenges through the University Living Lab—letting you apply biology to social and environmental issues
Graduates from this BSc often emerge ready for a wide range of careers—commonly stepping into roles such as scientific researcher, science educator or communicator, conservation/ecological consultant, or biotech/biomedical industry specialist. Here's how the university supports your journey, setting you up confidently for success:
University Career Services: You'll benefit from targeted support through Manchester’s Careers Service, including bespoke CV workshops, interview preparation, and industry networking events—especially tailored for STEM and bioscience students.
Employment Outcomes: Around one-third of graduates progress into scientific research and development, often advancing into PhD programmes. The remainder find opportunities in teaching, conservation, consultancy, biotechnology, biomedical industries, and even sectors like management, finance, marketing, and civil service.
Industry Partnerships: Your third-year placement gives you direct experience with organisations such as AstraZeneca, GSK, Mayo Clinic, Pfizer, Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, and more—turning academic knowledge into professional credibility.
Accreditation Edge: Advanced Accreditation by the Royal Society of Biology means you can apply for Member (MRSB) status after only two years of practice—potentially becoming a Chartered Biologist or Scientist a year earlier.
Graduation Outcomes: The blend of realistic work placement and applied learning ensures our graduates are already work-ready on day one—making this degree standout in a competitive job market. Though specific salary stats for this course aren’t published, broader Biology graduates at Manchester report strong employability and steadily rising earnings (est. ~£20k shortly after graduation).
Further Academic Progression:
After finishing this programme, you’re in a strong position to advance academically—whether via a Master’s degree, PhD, or specialized postgraduate training. Many head into research-focused disciplines (e.g., ecology, molecular biology, biotechnology) or professional fields like science communication, environmental policy, or management. Continual accreditation and your practical experience boost your postgraduate credentials and licensing potential too.
You must achieve grades AAA–AAB, including two Core Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics) with at least AA in two of these subjectsA-level Biology (or equivalent) is required; Chemistry or another science subject is often preferred.At least one academic reference supporting scientific ability and suitability for the programme.Applicants are encouraged to have practical science experience, as practical competence is considered integral to admissions for science-related degreesThe typical IB requirement is 35–36 points overall, with 6,6,5 to 6,6,6 at Higher Level, including two science subjects (usually Biology and Chemistry)Biology TeacherResearch SpecialistMolecular BiologistCellular BiologistLaboratory TechnicianMicrobiologistBiotechnologistEnvironmental ScientistClinical Research AssociatePharmaceutical Sales Representative
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