MSci Biology

This MSci in Biology isn’t just about lectures—it’s about diving into real science from day one. You’ll gain practical field and lab expertise, engage in research-led education, and tailor your learning through placements or study abroad—all supported by world-class facilities and a research-rich environment:

Here’s exactly how it works:

• Fieldwork in diverse environments: Experience ecology firsthand through field trips to places like the New Forest, Exmoor, Spain, and even Belize, helping you master sampling techniques, ecological surveys, and scientific observation. 

• Research-led teaching centres: Learn in facilities driven by ground-breaking work—Southampton is home to the UK’s first Cancer Immunology Research Centre and a leading partner institute within the Biofilms Institute, allowing research to directly feed into your learning experience. 

• Independent research experience: Over the MSci programme, you’ll carry out two independent research projects, giving you a chance to develop your scientific questions, design experiments, and present real findings. 

• Flexible placement and international exposure: Choose to spend a semester abroad in Europe or Australasia, or take a year-long industry placement—either of which can sharpen your academic interests and boost employability. 

• Ethical, hands-on practicals: Practicals involving animals or tissues are integral and conducted under ethical guidelines, with adjustments available if needed—ensuring both immersion and inclusivity.

Graduates from Southampton’s MSci Biology program are well prepared for careers in diverse sectors, thanks to their strong research training and advanced analytical skills. Many move into roles such as biomedical researcher, conservation scientist, environmental consultant, or biotechnologist. Employers value the combination of fieldwork, laboratory expertise, and critical thinking developed during the degree:

• University services: Southampton’s Careers and Employability Service provides one-to-one guidance, employer networking events, and skills workshops, while the Southampton Internship Programme (SIP) connects students directly with industry placements.

• Employment stats and salaries: 91% of Southampton graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2023), with average biosciences salaries ranging from £25,000–£32,000 in early career roles.

• University–industry partnerships: Strong collaborations exist with organisations such as the National Oceanography Centre, the Centre for Biological Sciences, and major employers in pharmaceuticals and environmental sciences.

• Long-term accreditation value: The MSci includes extended research training, giving graduates an advantage when applying for both academic and professional scientific roles requiring higher-level qualifications.

• Graduation outcomes: Alumni progress into roles in healthcare, pharmaceutical companies, government research agencies, environmental NGOs, and biotechnology firms, as well as into academic pathways.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSci, students are exceptionally well placed to continue into PhD research in biological sciences, particularly in fields such as genomics, ecology, neuroscience, and molecular biology. Some also pursue specialist postgraduate training in areas like bioinformatics, biotechnology, or environmental policy, benefitting from the research reputation and global ranking of the University of Southampton.