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If you’re fascinated by the living world and want a degree that lets you explore everything from the tiniest molecules to whole ecosystems, Stirling’s BSc (Hons) Biology is a fantastic choice. This flexible program is ideal if you want to keep your options open, discover your interests as you go, and graduate with skills that are valued across science, research, and industry.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1:
You’ll start by building a strong base in biology, exploring the inner workings of cells, the role of genes, and how organisms interact with their environment. Modules like Cell Biology, Genes and Inheritance, and Ecology give you the essentials while also developing practical lab skills that scientists rely on every day.
Year 2:
As you move forward, you’ll go deeper into genetics, evolution, and biochemistry, with plenty of hands-on work in both the lab and the field. This is also when group projects come into play, helping you apply classroom knowledge to real-world biological problems.
Year 3:
Here’s where you really get to shape your degree. You’ll choose advanced modules in areas that interest you most — whether that’s Cell Signalling, Environmental Biology, or Animal Physiology. At the same time, you’ll strengthen your research skills and learn how to design and analyse experiments.
Year 4 (Honours):
In your final year, you’ll take on an independent research project, working alongside expert academics on topics that excite you. From Conservation Biology to Advanced Immunology, you’ll explore the latest ideas in biology while showcasing everything you’ve learned.
Focus Areas : Cell biology, genetics, ecology, evolution, physiology, environmental biology, conservation, molecular biology.
Learning Outcomes : Hands-on lab and fieldwork experience, critical scientific thinking, strong research and data analysis skills, independence in designing projects, confidence in presenting scientific ideas.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation) : The course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB), giving your degree extra recognition with employers and research organisations worldwide.
Reputation (Employability Rankings) :
Ranked in the UK Top 20 for Biological Sciences (Guardian University Guide 2024).
96% of Stirling graduates are working or in further study within 15 months (Graduate Outcomes Survey, HESA 2023).
At Stirling, you won’t just be learning about biology from books—you’ll be experiencing it firsthand. From the first year, you’ll get practical lab and fieldwork experience, using cutting-edge equipment and exploring real ecosystems. Whether it’s working in molecular labs, conducting ecological surveys, or taking part in immersive field courses, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to apply your knowledge in the real world.
Here’s how you’ll get hands-on experience:
Residential Field Courses: Travel to locations like southern France or South Africa to design and carry out your own ecological or animal biology projects.
On-Campus Labs & Fieldwork: Learn essential lab techniques and ecological field methods using habitats on campus and nearby ecosystems.
Institute of Aquaculture & Advanced Labs: Access top-notch facilities including molecular labs, bioinformatics tools, flow cytometry, mass spectrometry, and confocal microscopy.
Virtual Labs (Labster): Use simulations to practise complex experiments safely before heading into real labs.
Fieldwork Opportunities: Explore Stirling’s woodlands, freshwater bodies, and other habitats to develop practical research skills.
A degree in Biology from Stirling opens up exciting opportunities across science, research, conservation, and education. Graduates leave with the practical skills, lab experience, and analytical thinking that employers value, making them ready for a variety of roles in both professional and academic settings.
Career Paths You Could Explore:
Research Scientist: Work in labs, universities, or private companies to investigate new biological discoveries.
Conservation Officer: Help protect wildlife and manage natural habitats with environmental organizations.
Biotech Analyst: Apply your biology knowledge to develop innovative products in biotechnology.
Science Educator: Teach biology or engage the public through outreach and communication programs.
Additional options: Environmental Consultant, Ecologist, Laboratory Technician, Wildlife Biologist, Marine Biologist, Genetics Technician.
How Stirling Supports Your Career:
Career Development Centre: Get tailored guidance, CV advice, and interview preparation.
Placements and Internships: Gain real-world experience through industry-linked opportunities.
Alumni Network: Connect with graduates for mentorship and professional insights.
Graduate Outcomes & Recognition:
Employment: A high proportion of graduates find jobs or pursue further study within months of graduating.
Industry Partnerships: Collaborate with leading research organizations and environmental agencies through projects and placements.
Professional Value: Accredited by relevant professional bodies, your degree carries weight with employers worldwide.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing your BSc, you could continue your studies with:
Master’s Degrees in areas such as molecular biology, environmental science, or bioinformatics.
PhD Programs for in-depth research opportunities.
Postgraduate Certificates or Diplomas to specialise in niche areas of interest.
A Levels: BBB including one of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, or Physics (subject taken within the last five years).IB Diploma: 28 points overall, with at least one Higher Level subject in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, or Physics (taken within the last five years).IELTS Academic or UKVI 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each sub-skill / IBT TOEFL 80 overall with a minimum of 18 in reading, 17 in writing, 17 in listening and 20 in speaking.for India : Year 12 (CBSE, ISC/ICSE, or metro state boards: Delhi, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal) with a minimum cumulative score of 65% or above.for USA : GPA: Minimum 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (B average)for USA : SAT/ACT: SAT 1200+ (Post-March 2016) or ACT composite score of 26+ (no section below 24)for USA : APs: Two AP tests at grade 3 or aboveBiotechnologyEconomicsPolitics and PolicyForensic ScienceBiomedical ScienceHealthcare ScientistClinical Research AssociateNanotechnologistEnvironmental ConsultantPharmaceutical Scientist
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University of Stirling
