BSc Biology with Science and Society

When you study Biology with Science & Society, you’re doing much more than exploring biology in isolation—you’ll discover how science connects with ethics, policy, culture, and the wider world. Alongside strong biological training, you’ll gain hands-on experiences and real-world insights that prepare you to think critically, act responsibly, and make a genuine impact:

Here’s how your learning comes to life:

Ethical Grand Challenges – Tackle pressing global issues such as climate change, sustainability, and healthcare through University-led challenges. These experiences encourage you to think beyond the lab and develop solutions that are both innovative and socially responsible.

University Living Lab Projects – Work directly with external organisations, local communities, and industry partners on real projects—from environmental conservation to public health campaigns—turning your academic studies into action that benefits society.

Cutting-edge Teaching Labs – Get hands-on with modern scientific techniques, including PCR, DNA sequencing, gel electrophoresis, histology, immunofluorescent microscopy, and even EEG/ECG methods, all taught in Manchester’s state-of-the-art bioscience labs.

Extensive Digital & Computing Resources – Access dedicated computing clusters with over 200 PCs, while also making the most of online learning tools such as lecture podcasts, interactive quizzes, discussion boards, and recorded sessions that support flexible and interactive study.

Historical & Cultural Context through CHSTM – Learn from experts at Manchester’s world-renowned Centre for the History of Science, Technology and Medicine (CHSTM), giving you unique insight into how science has developed, how it shapes society, and how cultural context influences discovery.

With a BSc in Biology with Science and Society, you’ll graduate with a rare mix of scientific expertise and social insight—skills that open doors in careers where science connects directly with people and policy. Many of our graduates step into roles such as science communicator, policy advisor, museum or heritage specialist, or education/outreach officer. If you opt for the industrial/professional experience pathway, you’ll add real-world work experience to your CV, making you even more employable.

Here’s how Manchester helps you build your future:

• Tailored Career Support – From day one, the University’s Careers Service is by your side. You’ll get one-to-one CV feedback, interview coaching, access to CareerConnect for job listings, plus invitations to career fairs and networking events.

• Employment & Salaries – Bioscience graduates from Manchester are highly employable. While salaries vary depending on the career route, students with industrial placements typically achieve stronger outcomes and faster progression.

• Industry & Cultural Partnerships – You’ll have the chance to work with external organisations such as medical writing companies, museums, or policy institutes, as well as benefit from connections through the University’s Centre for the History of Science, Technology and Medicine (CHSTM).

• Professional Recognition – If you take the industrial/professional experience option, the course is Advanced Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, giving you a head start toward professional recognition (MRSB membership after two years, and earlier eligibility for Chartered Biologist/Scientist status).

• Graduate Success – Students leave ready to apply their skills in areas like science communication, media, policy, or cultural institutions. Transferable strengths in writing, presenting, and research make them highly versatile across sectors.

Further Academic Progression:
This programme is also an excellent springboard for postgraduate study. Many graduates continue into Master’s degrees in science communication, public policy, museum studies, or bioethics. Others move on to PhD research in history of science, social dimensions of biology, or related areas. Professional pathways—like museum curation, science journalism, or public engagement—are also natural next steps.