Entry requirements
Entry Requirements * A/AS Levels: Three A2 levels usually required, normally two in relevant science subjects, with at least one from Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Mathematics. Two AS levels considered in place of one A2 level. General Studies is not accepted. * GCSE: English, Mathematics, and Chemistry normally required at Grade C or above if not held at A2/AS level. * Access to HE course: Pass, with at least the requisite credits at level 3. * European Baccalaureate: Pass with 70% overall. * International Baccalaureate: Pass Diploma with 32-34 points. * Leicestershire Progression Accord: BBB as above plus full Accord credits. * BTEC Nationals: Full Diploma with DDM (equivalent to 320 UCAS Tariff points), plus any subject / GCSE requirements. * Other Qualifications: Other national and international qualifications welcomed. * Mature students welcomed: Alternative qualifications considered. * Second Year Entry: Possible for those with advanced qualifications compatible with our degree structure. * Applicants are not normally interviewed. * All applicants receiving offers will be invited to visit the School. * These degrees are not available on a part-time basis.
Course description
BSc Biological Sciences
Programme
First Year
The first year is common to all the programmes, providing a sound base for advanced study across the breadth of modern Biological Sciences, from molecules to populations. Modules taken cover Biochemistry, Genetics, Microbiology, Physiology, Animal & Plant Diversity, Cell & Developmental Biology and Environmental & Evolutionary Biology. Tutorials and laboratory work are integral to all of these modules, enabling you to develop your critical and practical skills. There are also modules in Chemistry and skills-based teaching including ICT & Numeracy and Study & Communication skills.
Students who perform at first class level in their first year may apply for consideration for transfer to the first year of medicine.
Second and Final Years
In the second year you can choose from across the range of modules offered. Within the C100 programme, you can opt to specialise or retain a broad approach to the degree. There is only one core module in the second year, which is Research Skills. This module is designed to help you prepare for your final year project and includes topics such as experimental design, data handling analysis and presentation and bioethics.
In your final year you can again choose from the range of modules offered. Because the course progresses in depth, you will need to choose modules for which you have taken relevant second year modules. You will also undertake an individual research project, which is usually related to the final year modules you have chosen.
