MSci Hons Biology

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Nottingham

Program Overview

The MSci Biology course gives you in-depth education in life sciences, combining core biological theory with extensive hands-on lab and fieldwork, culminating in a research-focused final year. It suits students who want to push beyond a standard 3-year BSc: to specialise, conduct original research, and prepare for a scientific career or postgraduate study. 


Curriculum structure

Year 1
In the first year you take foundational modules such as Fundamental and Professional Skills for the Life Sciences, Cellular and Molecular Biology, Anatomy and Physiology, and Genetics, Molecular Evolution and Diversity. Optional modules like Biodiversity, Ecology and Behaviour, Principles of Neuroscience, Introduction to Human Nutrition and Metabolism, and Zoology Field Skills let you explore broader interests. Hands-on experience starts early with lab and field-based learning embedded from semester one. 

Year 2 & 3
These years deepen your specialism. You’ll move into more advanced modules in areas like genetics, disease, pathogens, developmental biology, and optional domains you select. There is increased emphasis on experimental design, practical skills, data analysis, and independent study. The third year usually includes a major research project in your area of interest. 

Year 4
The fourth year is dedicated to research training and specialist modules. It’s where you carry out an advanced, often self-chosen, research project under supervision, and refine skills in fields like bioinformatics, genetics, evolutionary biology, etc. This year prepares you to transition into research, industry, or postgraduate study with a strong portfolio. 


Focus areas

“Genetics & Genomics, Molecular & Cellular Biology, Ecology & Conservation, Animal & Plant Physiology, Pathogen / Disease Biology, Laboratory & Field Skills, Bioinformatics, Evolutionary Biology” 


Learning outcomes

“You will develop proficiency in experimental biology (lab & field); analyse biological data; communicate scientific findings; specialise in advanced topics; conduct independent research; and be equipped for roles in research, industry or further study.” 


Professional alignment (accreditation)

The course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, meaning it meets high professional and academic standards valued by employers and research institutions. 


Reputation (employability rankings)

  • 93.90% of undergraduates from Nottingham’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences secure graduate-level employment or further study within 15 months. 

  • Average starting salary for these graduates is £28,993

  • Nottingham is consistently among the UK universities most targeted by leading graduate employers. 

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

From your very first semester, you’ll gain practical skills in laboratories, field courses, and through individual or group modules that teach data, genetics, physiology and ecology. As you progress, you’ll increasingly work on independent research, advanced imaging and experimental methods, and culminating in a full research project in your fourth year using real-world tools and methods. You’ll also benefit from large, multidisciplinary laboratories, strong support facilities, and active feedback cycles (lab reports, presentations, etc.) to build both technical and soft skills.

Here are specific opportunities, facilities, and tools you’ll use:

  • You’ll study in the School of Life Sciences building on University Park Campus and the Medical School at Queen’s Medical Centre, using large lecture theatres, smaller seminar rooms, and large multidisciplinary laboratories

  • Fieldwork modules such as Zoology Field Skills (Year 1) and Ecology Field Course (Year 2), giving you hands-on experience with sampling, species surveys, environmental data collection and outdoor laboratory work. 

  • Major research projects in Years 3 and 4 (including the “Research Project” and “Becoming a Professional Scientist: Research Planning and Science Communication”), allowing you to design, execute, and present original research under supervision. 

  • Advanced module options like Illuminating Life: Advanced Imaging and Technologies, Advanced Experimental Design and Analysis, Pathogens: Vaccines and Therapeutics and others that involve cutting-edge lab techniques, diagnostics, bioinformatics and imaging tools. 

  • Assessment types that build practical and transferable skills: lab reports, practical exams and write-ups, poster presentations, seminars, etc. You’ll often work in small groups or pairs for practical work, and independently for projects.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the MSci Biology programme often go into roles like biomedical researcher, bioinformatics / data analyst, conservation / ecology specialist, or healthcare scientist / public health role. Because the degree includes rigorous lab work, field-skills, optional specialisations, and a fourth-year research project, you’ll be highly prepared both for direct careers in science and for postgraduate study or research positions:

  • University services that help students employ: Nottingham’s Careers & Employability Service helps with finding work or placements, CV & interview workshops, employer networking, and subject-specific support for life sciences students. The biology MSci page refers to “Career & Employability Service … assisting with job or course applications, searching for appropriate work experience placements and hosting events to bring you closer to prospective employers.” 

  • Employment stats & salary figures: 93.90% of undergraduates from the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences secured graduate-level employment or further study within 15 months of graduation. The average starting salary for these graduates is £28,993

  • Course data / graduate outcomes: According to Discover Uni course details: about 90% of MSci Biology graduates are working and/or studying 15 months after finishing the course; about 80% say their job uses what they learnt during their degree. 

  • Long-term accreditation value: This MSci Biology degree is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, which adds recognized professional legitimacy and is valued by employers and research institutions. 

  • Range of possible sectors & roles: Careers include research & development (academia/industry), pharmaceuticals, conservation / environmental protection, public health / healthcare, scientific communication, teaching, governmental roles and regulatory agencies. The final-year project equips students with specialised research or lab techniques to make them competitive. 


Further Academic Progression:

After completing the MSci Biology degree you can:

  • Apply for PhD / doctoral research positions in topics like molecular biology, infectious diseases, biotechnology, ecology or genomics.

  • Pursue taught master’s degrees in specialised areas (e.g. bioinformatics, conservation biology, immunology, environmental policy).

  • Consider interdisciplinary or professional postgraduate pathways (e.g. public health, regulatory science, policy).

Program Key Stats

£ 30,750 (Annual cost)
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


11 %
No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

AAB
3.0
32
87

N/A
N/A
6.0
-

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Biomedical researcher
  • Geneticist
  • Conservation scientist
  • Biotechnology specialist
  • Environmental consultant
  • Healthcare scientist
  • Science policy-maker
  • University academic / lecturer
  • Bioinformatics/data analyst
  • Science communicator / outreach expert

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