This is a single Honours programme run jointly by the School of Biological Sciences and the School of Chemistry. In the early stages it provides a sound foundation in the chemical principles that underlie biochemistry and introduces aspects of cellular and molecular biology.
In the third and fourth years, a wide range of courses is offered by both Schools which provides you with the opportunity to bias your degree programme towards biology or chemistry as suits your interests.
In the final two years, specialist courses are available which deal with current developments in various biochemically-related fields, such as medicinal chemistry, plant or microbial biotechnology and protein engineering. Final year research projects in some of these fields may be carried out in either School or in the affiliated Institutes.
In years 4 and 6 you also have 20 credits of Free Choice which allows you to select from a huge range of units offered by BIO and other Schools within the University.
How to Apply
Please apply directly to the School of Biological Sciences. It is not necessary to apply through UCAS for our part-time degree programmes. Please download and complete the School of Biological Sciences Part-Time Study Application Form [PDF, 50KB]
Dr. Nick Watmough
Biological Sciences offer 11 different full-time undergraduate degree programmes (plus three part-time degrees) in a range of subjects. Approximately 150 new undergraduates join us each year to study Biological Sciences (including a range of specialised programmes), Biomedicine, Biochemistry and Ecology.
Our students also have the opportunity of studying abroad for a year in either Europe, North America or Australasia, or spending a year in industry. Indeed we are one of a very few departments in the UK able to offer such a comprehensive spectrum of biology-related degree programmes.
Two of the distinguishing features of the degree courses we offer are excellence and choice. You are able to choose from a large number of degree programmes composed of a wide range of teaching modules. Lectures and seminars introduce the latest ideas and understanding of biology, and you will gain a thorough training in modern experimental methodology through hands-on practical or fieldwork sessions.
Why Study Biology?
The biological sciences comprise a broad range of inter-linked disciplines which encompass the study of life from the molecular level, through cells, tissues and organisms, to populations and ecosystems.
As well as being intellectually interesting, advances in the Biological Sciences have direct relevance to our everyday lives. Examples of this are to be found in new medical treatments, increased agricultural output, the protection of endangered species and the development of new food products. These breakthroughs have improved the quality of life for millions of people over the past few decades, and led to a greater understanding of our impact on the environment and the need for better resource management and conservation.
Some examples of recent advances include:
The development of new vaccines
The development of rapid and accurate diagnostic tests for infectious diseases
The production of recombinant hormones in bacteria, e.g. insulin for the treatment of diabetes
The development of new techniques for the forensic detection of crimeThe development of disease and drought resistant strains of crop plants
The designation of thousands of wildlife reserves and national parks worldwide to protect and conserve endangered species and areas of special ecological interest
The development of biological control techniques to combat weeds and pests thereby reducing the use of herbicides and insecticides
The development of bioremediation – using naturally occurring plants or microbes to clean up pollution, e.g. oil spills
Continuing research into the biological sciences is essential if we are to overcome problems such as cancer, HIV and tuberculosis, find ways to treat or cure genetic diseases such as Muscular Dystrophy and Cystic Fibrosis, unlock the secrets encoded in the Human Genome Sequence, protect endangered species, conserve ‘at risk’ habitats, and combat threats such as bioterrorism and emerging infectious diseases. Biological Scientists are at the forefront of biomedical, pharmaceutical, agricultural and ecological research, so if you are looking for an exciting, flexible field of study with excellent career prospects, both within science and in the wider employment market, then look no further than the biological sciences.
Compatible with CHE 1C3Y, or a free-standing module with workload greater than average for 20 credits. The module introduces bonding and hybridisation, conjugation and aromaticity, mechanism and functional groups; principles which are elucidated in topics: electrophilic substitution and addition, organometallic nucleophiles, polar multiple bonds, enolate, Claisen, and Mannich reactions, the Strecker synthesis, stereochemistry (enantiomers and diastereoisomers), SN1/SN2 and E1/E2 reactions, and epoxidation / 1,2-addition to alkenes. Finally, synthesis (alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alcohols, alkyl halides, ethers, amines, ketones, carboxylic acids) and bio-organic chemistry are introduced.
The module aims to provide an introduction to the basic aspects of biochemistry, molecular biology and genetics. The module explores the fundamental properties of macromolecules, DNA structure, synthesis and replication, as well as the structure and function of proteins. The genetic code, genes and their expression will be covered as well as the rapidly expanding area of molecular biology. The module also covers chromosome structure, mechanisms of heredity, medical genetics and cytogenetics.
This small-group seminar module is year-long, involving a minimum of 18 one-hour sessions. It addresses a number of biochemical problems related to material covered in BIO-1A13, BIO-1A14 and PHAN1HE1. For students lacking a background in Maths or Physics it will establish principles needed to understand physical chemistry in a biochemical context. You will be asked to use a range of literature- and web-based methods to prepare for the different sessions. The module will provide experience in both oral and written communication of science, and in problem solving. Assessment is by a mixture of essay and problem solving exercises and contribution to seminars.
Option A Study (10 credits)
Students will select 10 credits from the following modules:
The module provides students without A-level Mathematics with the basic skills necessary for the appreciation of the more mathematical and quantitative aspects of chemistry. It includes an introduction to differential and integral calculus. It is not available to students with A-level Mathematics.
This module provides students without A-level Physics with an introduction to the basic physical principles necessary for a more complete understanding of chemistry and related subjects. It is not available to students with an A-level of grade C or above in Physics.
Compulsory Study (40 credits)
Students must study the following modules for 40 credits:
This module builds on the principles of biochemistry taught in BIO-1A14. Selected topics in intermediary metabolism are covered in greater depth and extended to include the specific roles of coenzymes in metabolic pathways. In turn this leads to a discussion of the roles of hormone-receptor interactions and signal transduction in metabolic regulation. The recent contributions of structural biology to cellular bioenergetics are acknowledged in both the lecture series and associated practical classes, whilst ATP utilization is illustrated by consideration of the active transport of molecules across membranes in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
The module provides an introduction to the principles of molecular biology. The programme starts with the structure of DNA, genes and genomes, followed by characterisation of the information flow including the mechanisms and regulation of transcription and translation. Protein folding, modification and turnover are described together with reactions concerning DNA (replication, recombination and repair). The module ends with a detailed description of methods used for the experimental manipulation of genetic material (gene isolation, DNA sequencing, polymerase chain reaction, molecular cloning, transgenic plants and animals and global functional genomics).
Option A Study (20 credits)
Students will select 20 credits from the following modules:
This module explores the molecular organisation of cells and the regulation of dynamic cellular changes, with some emphasis on medical cell biology. Dynamic properties of cell membranes, cell signalling, growth factor function and aspects of cancer biology and immunology. Regulation of the internal cell environment (nuclear organisation and information flow, cell growth, division and motility), the relationship of the cell to its extracellular matrix and the determination of cell phenotype. Aspects of cell death, the ageing process, developmental biology, mechanisms of tissue renewal and repair. It is strongly recommended that students taking this module should also take BIO-2B02 or BIO-2B17.
This module will describe the basis of heredity, describing both the functions and the structures of genes and whole genomes. Examples will be taken from bacterial, animal and plant systems and will be considered from both functional and molecular points of view. The influence of the "new genetics" on medicine, agriculture and society will also be covered. Practical work will involve a molecular genetic analysis of a symbiotic, nitrogen-fixing bacterium and a molecular mapping exercise of traits that confer disease resistance in plants. It is strongly recommended that students taking this module should also take BIO-2B02 (Molecular Biology).
The major emphasis of this unit is on the mechanisms that regulate human body organ systems and their interplay. Considerable attention is directed to cell physiology, which serves as the basis for body functions. In particular, the nervous, muscle, sense organ, renal, cardiac, respiratory, circulatory, gastrointestinal, endocrine, and reproductive systems are dealt with in detail. Practical work involves physiological experiments on these systems and histopathology of some tissues. (CHE-1C24 IS AN ACCEPTABLE ALTERNATIVE TO BIO-1A58 AS A PREREQUISITE).
The central theme of the module is the chemistry of the p and d block elements: structure and bonding, coordination complexes and the organometallic chemistry of main group and transition metals. The module includes laboratory work. Students are required to have taken one of the laboratory module CHE-1C0Y, CHE-1E0Y or CHE-1H0Y as well as CHE-1C3Y before taking this module.
The topics covered in the module include an introduction to organic synthesis, carbon-carbon bond forming reactions, aromaticity, heterocyclic chemistry, and stereochemistry and mechanism. The module includes laboratory work. Students are required to have taken one of the laboratory modules CHE-1C0Y, CHE-1H0Y or CHE-1E0Y as well as CHE-1C1Y before taking this module.
Compulsory Study (20 credits)
Students must study the following modules for 20 credits:
The unit sets out to explain the molecular basis of the often complex catalytic mechanisms of enzymes in biological systems. Covered are the underlying principles of enzyme catalysis and techniques for the study of enzyme mechanism and structure. These provide a foundation for discussions of the mechanisms of specific enzyme families such as the aspartic proteinases (e.g. the HIV-1 proteinase), of enzymes involved in DNA replication and ATP synthesis. Many of the examples presented are of relevance in medicine. An extended practical based on the kinetics of a model enzyme, chymotrypsin, helps underpin concepts learnt in the unit.
Option A Study (20 credits)
Students will select 20 credits from the following modules:
This module is concerned with the structure and function of cells and it has a strong emphasis on experimental methodologies used to study cell dynamics. Topics to be covered include: DNA cloning and gene expression, microscopy and image analysis, cell junctions and communication, mechanics of cell division, cell signalling in motility, cytoskeleton, extracellular matrix and tissue function, growth factors and proliferation and cell differentiation. The module also includes three demonstrations of current techniques used to study cells and review sessions where students have an opportunity to ask questions on aspects of cell biology.
The module deals with the mechanisms involved in signal recognition, transduction and response in animal cells. Topics include the molecular basis of receptor activation and the way in which this is interpreted either in changes in second messenger levels or in protein-protein interactions and ultimately in changes in protein kinase activities. The module then goes on to look at some of the effects on cell behaviour that result from signal input. (With the agreement of the module organiser, students who have taken BIO-2B01 but not BIO-2B06 may be allowed to take this module.)
This module will provide a description of contemporary biological studies of genomes. There will be a focus on a molecular understanding of gene expression within organisms, with a particular emphasis on regulatory processes that affect expression at the genome level. Topics to be covered include comparative and functional genomics, organization of prokaryotic and eukaryotic genomes, global regulation of genome expression and mechanisms involved in maintaining genome integrity. Lectures and the associated practical will also provide a thorough grounding in technologies that analyse genomes and their gene products.
This module aims to provide a detailed coverage of the biology of selected infectious microorganisms, in the context of host responses to pathogens. The properties of organs, cells and molecules of the immune system are described, along with the mechanism of antibody diversity generation, and the exploitation of the immune response for vaccine development. Examples of microbiological pathogens are used to illustrate major virulence strategies. The impact of genomics on the study of infection, and on mechanisms used by pathogens to evade host responses will be discussed. The unit's theme is the molecular and cellular biology events at the host-pathogen interface.
This unit describes how molecular genetics can analyse the microbial world. The power of genomics and post-genomics in revolutionising our understanding of bacterial diversity, physiology and other specialised properties will be highlighted. The ways in which bacteria, such as Caulobacter, Streptomyces and Bacillus form complex structures will be described in terms of complex cascades of gene regulation. The Unit also deals with bacterial response to stress and with prokaryotic behaviour, including chemotaxis, communication between cells and communication between bacteria and eukaryotes.
A broad module covering all aspects of the biology of microorganisms, providing key knowledge for specialist Level 3 modules. Detailed description is given about the cell biology of bacteria, fungi and protists together with microbial physiology, genetics and environmental and applied microbiology. The biology of disease-causing microorganisms (bacteria, viruses) and prions is also covered. Practical work provides hands-on experience of important microbiological techniques, and expands on concepts introduced in lectures. The module should appeal to biology students across a wide range of disciplines and interests.
The aim of this unit is to provide a thorough understanding of the concepts and principles of developmental biology from bacteria through to vertebrates. Special emphasis will be placed on vertebrate developmental biology and where applicable this will be compared to human development. Students will gain an understanding of the molecular basis of pattern formation and morphogenetic events during embryogenesis.
Host-pathogen interactions are illustrated with examples of the molecular basis for the pathogenicity of viruses, bacteria and fungi towards plants. Emphasis is also given to the molecular recognition of pathogens by plants, to the intracellular signalling pathways that result in expression of plant disease resistance, and to the nature of resistance mechanisms. There is no pre-requisite for this module but knowledge of molecular biology and plant biology are advantages.
The module examines examples of biogenesis, chemical synthesis, and biological action, of selected products and pharmaceutical chemicals. The emphasis is on the organic chemistry of these topics, not enzymology and pharmacology. Even though CHE-2F8Y is listed as a Pre-requisite it can be alternatively taken at the same time as this module.
This unit provides most of the core description of heterocyclic chemistry in the organic chemistry lecture programme in CHE, surveying the synthesis and reactivity of pi-deficient and pi- excessive heterocycles. This level-3 course also continues the discussion of organic synthesis, building on the introduction to carbon-carbon bond forming reactions, synthesis design and retrosynthetic planning presented in earlier years. The course includes an introduction to stereoselective synthesis and transition metal mediated bond-formation procedures - topics which can be taken on further in a level-4 option course.
This unit, which will consist of lectures and practical classes, will provide an appreciation of modern plant biology with an emphasis on development, signalling, and response to the environment. It will encompass genetic, molecular, biochemical and physiological perspectives and provide an understanding of the major aspects of plant cell structure, function and metabolism, including photosynthesis and respiration, an understanding of inter- and intracellular signalling and an understanding of how plants perceive and respond to the physical and biological environments.
This module provides an introduction to the diversity of protein structure , their properties and to interactions between proteins and metal ions. Lectures cover protein structure, protein electrostatics, stability and folding, molecular modelling, the chemical principles of protein-metal interactions, spectroscopic techniques for studying protein metal centres and techniques used in protein structure determination. The module is taught in the first part of semester one.
Option B Study (20 credits)
Students will select 20 credits from the following modules:
This module is concerned with the structure and function of cells and it has a strong emphasis on experimental methodologies used to study cell dynamics. Topics to be covered include: DNA cloning and gene expression, microscopy and image analysis, cell junctions and communication, mechanics of cell division, cell signalling in motility, cytoskeleton, extracellular matrix and tissue function, growth factors and proliferation and cell differentiation. The module also includes three demonstrations of current techniques used to study cells and review sessions where students have an opportunity to ask questions on aspects of cell biology.
The module deals with the mechanisms involved in signal recognition, transduction and response in animal cells. Topics include the molecular basis of receptor activation and the way in which this is interpreted either in changes in second messenger levels or in protein-protein interactions and ultimately in changes in protein kinase activities. The module then goes on to look at some of the effects on cell behaviour that result from signal input. (With the agreement of the module organiser, students who have taken BIO-2B01 but not BIO-2B06 may be allowed to take this module.)
The module will explore the experimental and computer-based methods for studying the structure and function of membrane proteins. The principles explored will be illustrated with examples of topical interest. The module will also consider the biosynthesis of integral membrane proteins and the mechanisms by which proteins are targeted into, or across, biological membranes. The structure, specialisation and differentiation of biological membranes will also be explored.
This module will provide a description of contemporary biological studies of genomes. There will be a focus on a molecular understanding of gene expression within organisms, with a particular emphasis on regulatory processes that affect expression at the genome level. Topics to be covered include comparative and functional genomics, organization of prokaryotic and eukaryotic genomes, global regulation of genome expression and mechanisms involved in maintaining genome integrity. Lectures and the associated practical will also provide a thorough grounding in technologies that analyse genomes and their gene products.
The major emphasis of this unit is on the mechanisms that regulate human body organ systems and their interplay. Considerable attention is directed to cell physiology, which serves as the basis for body functions. In particular, the nervous, muscle, sense organ, renal, cardiac, respiratory, circulatory, gastrointestinal, endocrine, and reproductive systems are dealt with in detail. Practical work involves physiological experiments on these systems and histopathology of some tissues. (CHE-1C24 IS AN ACCEPTABLE ALTERNATIVE TO BIO-1A58 AS A PREREQUISITE).
This module aims to provide a detailed coverage of the biology of selected infectious microorganisms, in the context of host responses to pathogens. The properties of organs, cells and molecules of the immune system are described, along with the mechanism of antibody diversity generation, and the exploitation of the immune response for vaccine development. Examples of microbiological pathogens are used to illustrate major virulence strategies. The impact of genomics on the study of infection, and on mechanisms used by pathogens to evade host responses will be discussed. The unit's theme is the molecular and cellular biology events at the host-pathogen interface.
The central theme of the module is the chemistry of the p and d block elements: structure and bonding, coordination complexes and the organometallic chemistry of main group and transition metals. The module includes laboratory work. Students are required to have taken one of the laboratory module CHE-1C0Y, CHE-1E0Y or CHE-1H0Y as well as CHE-1C3Y before taking this module.
This unit describes how molecular genetics can analyse the microbial world. The power of genomics and post-genomics in revolutionising our understanding of bacterial diversity, physiology and other specialised properties will be highlighted. The ways in which bacteria, such as Caulobacter, Streptomyces and Bacillus form complex structures will be described in terms of complex cascades of gene regulation. The Unit also deals with bacterial response to stress and with prokaryotic behaviour, including chemotaxis, communication between cells and communication between bacteria and eukaryotes.
A broad module covering all aspects of the biology of microorganisms, providing key knowledge for specialist Level 3 modules. Detailed description is given about the cell biology of bacteria, fungi and protists together with microbial physiology, genetics and environmental and applied microbiology. The biology of disease-causing microorganisms (bacteria, viruses) and prions is also covered. Practical work provides hands-on experience of important microbiological techniques, and expands on concepts introduced in lectures. The module should appeal to biology students across a wide range of disciplines and interests.
The aim of this unit is to provide a thorough understanding of the concepts and principles of developmental biology from bacteria through to vertebrates. Special emphasis will be placed on vertebrate developmental biology and where applicable this will be compared to human development. Students will gain an understanding of the molecular basis of pattern formation and morphogenetic events during embryogenesis.
Host-pathogen interactions are illustrated with examples of the molecular basis for the pathogenicity of viruses, bacteria and fungi towards plants. Emphasis is also given to the molecular recognition of pathogens by plants, to the intracellular signalling pathways that result in expression of plant disease resistance, and to the nature of resistance mechanisms. There is no pre-requisite for this module but knowledge of molecular biology and plant biology are advantages.
The module examines examples of biogenesis, chemical synthesis, and biological action, of selected products and pharmaceutical chemicals. The emphasis is on the organic chemistry of these topics, not enzymology and pharmacology. Even though CHE-2F8Y is listed as a Pre-requisite it can be alternatively taken at the same time as this module.
This unit provides most of the core description of heterocyclic chemistry in the organic chemistry lecture programme in CHE, surveying the synthesis and reactivity of pi-deficient and pi- excessive heterocycles. This level-3 course also continues the discussion of organic synthesis, building on the introduction to carbon-carbon bond forming reactions, synthesis design and retrosynthetic planning presented in earlier years. The course includes an introduction to stereoselective synthesis and transition metal mediated bond-formation procedures - topics which can be taken on further in a level-4 option course.
This unit, which will consist of lectures and practical classes, will provide an appreciation of modern plant biology with an emphasis on development, signalling, and response to the environment. It will encompass genetic, molecular, biochemical and physiological perspectives and provide an understanding of the major aspects of plant cell structure, function and metabolism, including photosynthesis and respiration, an understanding of inter- and intracellular signalling and an understanding of how plants perceive and respond to the physical and biological environments.
This unit builds on CHE-3H81 Protein Structure and Chemistry, covering how protein structures can be altered by biological and chemical procedures, and the principles underlying the design of proteins for specific tasks. Examples of engineered proteins designed for particular industrial and medical uses are considered.
This module provides an introduction to the diversity of protein structure , their properties and to interactions between proteins and metal ions. Lectures cover protein structure, protein electrostatics, stability and folding, molecular modelling, the chemical principles of protein-metal interactions, spectroscopic techniques for studying protein metal centres and techniques used in protein structure determination. The module is taught in the first part of semester one.
Disclaimer
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules and regular (five-yearly) review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff or sabbatical leave. Where this is the case, the University will endeavour to inform students.
Entry Requirements
A Level:
ABB including Chemistry and AS Level Maths or Physics at grade B
International Baccalaureate:
32 points including 3 HL Subjects at Grade 5 including Chemistry and SL Maths or Physics at grade 5
Scottish Highers:
AABBB including Chemistry and either Maths or Physics
Scottish Advanced Highers:
ABB including Chemistry and either SL Maths or Physics at grade B
Irish Leaving Certificate:
AABBBB at higher level including Chemistry and either Maths or Physics
Access Course:
See below
HND:
Please contact university for further information
European Baccalaureate:
75% overall, including 7.5 in Chemistry and either Maths or Physics
Students for whom English is a Foreign language
We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading). Recognised English Language qualifications include:
IELTS: 6. overall (minimum 5.5 in any component)
TOEFL: Internet-based score of 78 overall (minimum 20 in Speaking component, 17 in Writing and Listening components and 18 in Reading components.
PTE: 55 overall (minimum 51 in any component).
If you do not meet the University's entry requirements, our INTO Language Learning Centre offers a range of university preparation courses to help you develop the high level of academic and English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.
Interviews
The majority of candidates will not be called for an interview. However, for some students an interview will be requested. These are normally quite informal and generally cover topics such as your current studies, reasons for choosing the course and your personal interests and extra-curricular activities.
Gap Year
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year, believing that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry and may wish to contact the appropriate Admissions Office directly to discuss this further.
Special Entry Requirements
A2-level Chemistry and Grade B in AS Level Mathematics or Physics are required for this course. In addition to this, applicants are asked to have two other A2-level subjects. General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.
Intakes
The School's annual intake is in September of each year.
Alternative Qualifications
We encourage you to apply if you have alternative qualifications equivalent to our stated entry requirement. Please contact us for further information.
Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3, including 12 Level 3 credits in Chemistry and 6 Level 3 credits in either Maths or Physics.
GCSE Offer
Students are required to have GCSE Mathematics at Grade B and English Language at Grade C.
Fees and Funding
Undergraduate University Fees
We are committed to ensuring that Tuition Fees do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. Full time UK/EU students starting an undergraduate degree course in 2013 will be charged a tuition fee of £9,000. The level of fee may be subject to yearly increases. Full time International students starting an undergraduate degree course in 2013 will be charged a tuition fee of £14,400. The level of fee may be subject to yearly increases.
Students starting a part-time undergraduate course at the University of East Anglia from 2013 will be subject to the new £9,000 fee rate on a pro-rata basis. Part-time students will be able to apply for a Tuition Fee Loan to cover the cost of their course fees. The Tuition Fee Loan will replace the previous means-tested Fee Grant and Study Grant. The Fee Loan will not be means-tested.
International Students - The University offers around £1 million of Scholarships each year to support International students in their studies. Scholarships are normally awarded to students on the basis of academic merit and are usually for the duration of the period of study. Our University international pages gives you more details about preparation for studying with us, including Fees and Funding http://www.uea.ac.uk/international
Applying for Part-Time Degrees
The University of East Anglia offers some of its undergraduate degrees on a part-time basis. Applications are made directly to the University: More information and an application form can be found at our Part-Time Study pages. For further information on the part-time application process, please contact our Admissions Office at admissions@uea.ac.uk.
Each year we hold a series of Open Days, where potential applicants to our Undergraduate courses can come and visit the university to learn more about the courses they are interested in, meet current students and staff and tour our campus. If you decide to apply for a course and are made an offer, you will be invited to a School specific Visit Day. Applicants may be invited for interview or audition for some courses.
For enquiries about the content of the degree or your qualifications please contact Admissions at 01603 591515 or email admissions@uea.ac.uk We can then direct your enquiry to the relevant department to assist you.