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BSc Biological Sciences ( C100 )

UCAS Course Code:
C100
Duration:
3 years
Attendance:
Full Time
Award:
Degree of Bachelor of Science
School of Study:
Biological Sciences
Brochure:
School of Biological Sciences Undergraduate Brochure (PDF)
Typical A-Level Offer:
ABB to include Biology.

This programme offers you the opportunity to take common first-year subjects without committing yourself to any particular specialisation. The first year units cover all the major areas of biology and will give you a sound grounding in mathematics, statistics, IT and computing, physics and chemistry. You will find the latter units especially valuable if you do not have A-levels in these subjects.

At the end of the first year you may, if you wish, transfer to one of the specialised programmes of Cell Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology & Genetics, Plant Biology, Cellular & Molecular Biochemistry or Ecology, or you may wish to remain on the C100 programme which allows you to choose any of the second year units offered by the School.

During the second and final years of study you can steer your degree programme towards your areas of interest or chosen specialism. You will also have the opportunity to complete a substantial independent final year research project.

There are currently more than 25 advanced optional modules including: Genomes; Genes and Genomics; Behavioural Ecology; Cancer Biology; Evolutionary Biology and Conservation Genetics.

Specialisations

Biology with science communication: Alongside studying from a wide range of biology modules, this specialisation provides a work placement opportunity and a communication project such as designing and delivering a primary science club session or running an activity at a general public science event.

Cell biology: In this specialisation you will study core modules in cell and molecular biology, mechanisms of diseases and cell signalling and choose from a range of specialised options including biochemistry, infection and immunity and cancer biology.

In both the second and third years 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.

What our Students say

'For as long as I can remember, I have enjoyed science - especially biology. That is why I chose to study biology at degree level. UEA was welcoming and friendly when I came to visit and it seemed only natural that I should choose to study here. UEA has helped me to continue my enjoyment of biology.'

Andrew Bayliss C100 Biological Sciences

'I'm studying for a BSc in Biological Sciences after successfully completing a foundation year franchised with Lowestoft College. It's a great way to explore the many aspects of biology, from molecular biology and genetics to conservation ecology. It allows me to study the particular areas I've always been interested in, whilst opening my eyes to the other exciting aspects of biology. Highly recommended!'

Mia Derhe C100 Biological Sciences


Dr. Andrew Chantry

Why choose usBiological 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.

UniStats Information

Compulsory Study (120 credits)

Students must study the following modules for 120 credits:

Name Code Credits
BIODIVERSITY BIO-1A03 20
EVOLUTION, BEHAVIOUR AND ECOLOGY BIO-1A04 20
FOUNDATIONS FOR PHYSIOLOGY BIO-1A58 10
FUNDAMENTALS OF CELL BIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY BIO-1A14 20
FUNDAMENTALS OF MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND GENETICS BIO-1A13 20
INTRODUCTORY CHEMISTRY FOR LIFE SCIENCES BIO-1A61 10
MATHS AND STATISTICS FOR BIOLOGISTS BIO-1A6Y 10
SKILLS FOR BIOLOGISTS BIO-1A4Y 10

Option A Study (100 credits)

Students will select 100 credits from the following modules:

Name Code Credits
BEHAVIOURAL ECOLOGY BIO-2B18 20
BIOCHEMISTRY BIO-2B01 20
CELL BIOLOGY BIO-2B06 20
COMMUNITY, ECOSYSTEM AND MACRO-ECOLOGY BIO-2B26 20
EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY BIO-2B10 20
FIELD ECOLOGY BIO-2B21 20
GENETICS BIO-2B17 20
HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY BIO-2B05 20
MICROBIOLOGY BIO-2B28 20
MOLECULAR BIOLOGY BIO-2B02 20
PLANT BIOLOGY BIO-2B07 20

Free Choice Study (20 credits)

Students will select modules worth 20 credits from the course catalogue with the approval of their School

Option A Study (100 credits)

Students will select 100 credits from the following modules:

Name Code Credits
CANCER BIOLOGY BIO-3C27 20
CELL BIOLOGY AND MECHANISMS OF DISEASE BIO-3C18 20
CELLULAR SIGNALLING BIO-3C03 20
COMMUNICATION AND TRANSPORT ACROSS BIOLOGICAL MEMBRANES BIO-3C02 20
DATA ANALYSIS BIO-3D2Y 40
EVOLUTION IN HEALTH AND DISEASE BIO-3C57 20
EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY AND CONSERVATION GENETICS BIO-3C24 20
FOOD DOMESTICATION AND SUSTAINABILITY BIO-3C44 20
GENOMES, GENES AND GENOMICS BIO-3C41 20
HOST-PARASITE INTERACTIONS BIO-3C47 20
INFECTION AND IMMUNITY BIO-3C28 20
MICROBIAL BIOTECHNOLOGY BIO-3C09 20
MICROBIAL CELL BIOLOGY BIO-3C10 20
MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR PRINCIPLES OF DEVELOPMENT BIO-3C39 20
MOLECULAR ENZYMOLOGY BIO-3C01 20
MOLECULAR PLANT-MICROBE INTERACTIONS BIO-3C20 20
ORGANISMS AND ENVIRONMENT BIO-3C45 20
RESEARCH PROJECT BIO-3D1Y 40
SCIENCE COMMUNICATION BIO-3C6Y 20
SOCIAL EVOLUTION BIO-3C38 20

Free Choice Study (20 credits)

Students will select modules worth 20 credits from the course catalogue with the approval of their School

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 to include Biology.
International Baccalaureate:
32 points including 3 HL Subjects at Grade 5 including Biology.
Scottish Highers:
AABBB to include Biology and one other science.
Scottish Advanced Highers:
ABB to include Biology. Other Sciences at Advanced Higher level would confer an advantage.
Irish Leaving Certificate:
AABBBB at Higher Level including Biology and at least two other science subjects
Access Course:
See below
HND:
Please contact university for further information
European Baccalaureate:
75% overall, including 7.5 in Biology.

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 Biology is 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 Biology.

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.

Scholarships and Bursaries

Home/EU - The University of East Anglia offers a range of Bursaries and Scholarships.  To check if you are eligible please visit http://www.uea.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/finance/university-financial-support      

International Students 

The School of Biological Sciences has 2 £1,000 year one scholarships available for 2013 entry.  The Scholarship deadline is 15th January 2013.  Please contact the Admissions office at bio.ug.admiss@uea.ac.uk for more information.

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



Applications need to be made via the Universities Colleges and Admissions Services (UCAS), using the UCAS Apply option.

UCAS Apply is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time Undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom. It is made up of different sections that you need to complete. Your application does not have to be completed all at once. The system allows you to leave a section partially completed so you can return to it later and add to or edit any information you have entered. Once your application is complete, it must be sent to UCAS so that they can process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.

The UCAS code name and number for the University of East Anglia is EANGL E14.

Further Information

If you would like to discuss your individual circumstances with the Admissions Office prior to applying please do contact us:

Undergraduate Admissions Office (Biological Sciences)
Tel: +44 (0)1603 591515
Email: admissions@uea.ac.uk

Please click here to register your details online via our Online Enquiry Form.

International candidates are also actively encouraged to access the University's International section of our website.