Biology BSc (Hons)

Course description

Study across the human, plant and animal elements of biology on a course which offers practical work placements, fieldwork in the UK and overseas, and the opportunity to be part of important research.

• The course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, so you can be assured that you'll develop the biological knowledge and skills needed in today's world. The Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management also accredit a pathway within the course
• Facilities include an Aquatic Research Facility, glasshouse, insectary, and specialist laboratories - take a virtual tour
• Your studies won’t be confined to the laboratory as fieldwork is an essential part of the course. Our students have travelled to locations such as Twycross Zoo, Kew Gardens, Mallorca and the Maldives - the cost of mandatory trips is included in your course fee
• Many of our teaching team are active researchers whose work is shaping debates in areas such as coral reef diseases, animal ecology, cell biology and insect reproduction, so your learning will be informed by the very latest research and developments in biology
• The content of this course is aligned to the priorities of global initiatives, like the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, to ensure you graduate with a skill set that can help tackle global challenges
• Get career-ready through work placement and internship opportunities.

Biology at Derby

Many of the solutions to major challenges facing the world have a biological basis. This course allows you to study across the human, plant and animal elements of biology, with the opportunity to tailor to your career ambitions and interests, so that you graduate with a broad understanding of how biology can be applied to multiple settings in the real world.

Your first year introduces you to key themes including ecology, evolution, genetics, and anatomy and physiology. As you progress, you’ll develop research skills and can choose optional modules on topics like microbiology, molecular biology and bio-innovation to reflect your career aspirations. You will have opportunities to spend time working in industry to strengthen your CV. You’ll also undertake an independent study into a theme of your choice and could apply on a competitive basis for an internship to contribute to the University’s scientific research.

Biology is a practical subject, so you will learn in the laboratory, field and classroom. Your studies will be enriched with fieldwork and placement opportunities – you could be travelling to Mallorca or the Maldives on study trips, or gaining experience through placements and projects with organisations such as Sea Life, Twycross Zoo, Derby Museums or Derbyshire Wildlife Trust. You’ll also have opportunities to apply for paid internships to add real world experience to your CV.

When you graduate, you’ll have the skills, knowledge and vision to work as a versatile, resourceful and forward-thinking biologist.