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Biological Sciences at UEA
Find out more about studying Biological Sciences at UEA, and browse our other courses.
Find out moreMSc Biology of Ageing and Lifelong Health with a Placement Year
Key details
- Attendance
- Full Time
- Award
- Degree of Master of Science
- Course Length
- 2 years
- Course Start Date
- January 2027
Course options
Other Start Dates
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UEA is ranked 17th overall for research quality in Biological Science
The Times Higher Education REF 2021 AnalysisCourse Overview
Why MSc Biology of Ageing at UEA with a Placement Year?
Develop advanced knowledge of ageing biology through exciting hands-on research at the world-renowned Norwich Research Park. Build scientific, analytical, and communication skills for careers in research, healthcare, biotechnology, and beyond.
Why Choose UEA
- Ageing science: Gain an in-depth understanding of the biological mechanisms that drive ageing and age-related disease
- Cutting-edge research: Explore the latest discoveries and state-of-the-art approaches in longevity and ageing research
- Future-focused skills: Develop the knowledge, practical experience, and research expertise needed for careers in geroscience
What is MSc Biology of Ageing with a Placement Year?
On this exciting MSc Biology of Ageing course, you’ll study the theory and mechanisms that underlie the ageing process and the development of age-related disease. You’ll be introduced to cutting edge questions and approaches in longevity research, enabling you to graduate with the knowledge, skills and experience to work in this exciting field.
This course offers an in-depth exploration of the most pressing questions in ageing research, and will equip you with essential laboratory skills and cutting-edge experimental approaches. You’ll also develop your ability to interpret scientific data, communicate your findings clearly and effectively, and critically evaluate and apply new knowledge.
A major part of the course is an independent research project, giving you the opportunity to work with a leading researcher on a topic that matches your interests and ambitions. In year two, you’ll take part in a placement, gaining valuable industry skills. By graduation, you'll be well prepared for PhD study and a wide range of careers in research, healthcare, biotechnology, and the growing field of geroscience.
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Placement Year
As part of the second year of your MSc, you'll have the opportunity to complete an industry placement with a UK employer.
During the first semester of the second year, you'll follow a structured employability programme designed to prepare you for securing an industry placement. With support from the UEA's specialist, award-winning placement partner, you'll benefit from tailored careers guidance, including CV and application advice, interview preparation, networking opportunities and access to placement vacancies.
Industry placements are typically paid, last between eight and ten months, and are undertaken with UK employers. They provide an opportunity to apply your academic knowledge in a professional environment, develop industry-relevant skills and gain valuable workplace experience before you graduate.
The University offers comprehensive support throughout the placement process; however, securing a suitable placement is your responsibility. To maximise your chances of success, you'll need to engage fully with both your studies and the placement support programme.
If you don't secure an industry placement, or you don't meet the academic requirements, you'll instead complete three structured industry projects with different UK organisations. These projects offer practical experience across a range of organisations and are available in a variety of flexible formats.
Whichever route you take, you'll graduate with practical, career-focused experience that will enhance your CV and prepare you for your future career.
Find out more about the Postgraduate Placement Year.
Careers
Career Pathways
With an MSc in Biology of Ageing, you'll be well prepared for careers such as:
- Biological or Biomedical Researcher: Contribute to scientific discoveries that improve understanding of ageing, health, and disease
- Pharmaceutical Scientist: Support the development of new medicines and treatments for age-related conditions
- Government Policy Advisor: Help shape policies that address public health, ageing populations, and healthcare challenges
- NGO Programme Officer: Apply scientific knowledge to support health, wellbeing, and research initiatives in the non-profit sector
- Healthcare Specialist: Use your understanding of ageing biology to support innovation and improvement across health services
After the Course
You'll graduate with the specialist knowledge, practical research experience, and transferable skills needed to succeed in a range of scientific and health-related careers. Career opportunities include biological and biomedical research, the pharmaceutical industry, government policy, non-government organisations, and health services. The course also provides excellent preparation for further study, with many graduates progressing to PhD programmes in ageing biology and related fields.
Study and Modules
Structure
This two-year MSc programme includes taught modules covering cutting-edge findings and recent breakthroughs in the biology of ageing and age-related disease, providing an in-depth understanding of the genetic, molecular, cellular, and physiological mechanisms underlying the ageing process.
Through problem-based workshops, you’ll study the important questions in the field and learn to understand and evaluate primary literature on the topic through teamwork. In addition, you’ll learn skills in data analysis and bioinformatics and will develop valuable transferable skills to support your learning and career development, such as scientific writing, science communication, engagement, and ethics.
Importantly, you’ll complete a major research project where you’ll design and conduct original research on your chosen topic, working with a world-leading researcher of your choice from across the Norwich Research Park. This project provides an invaluable training environment to build your research skills and gives you the chance to work individually, drawing on knowledge and understanding gained from your taught modules.
To prepare for your placement year, you'll complete a year-long Employability Skills module. Through a series of workshops, you'll develop key career skills, including CV writing, interview techniques and building your professional profile on LinkedIn.
You'll also have one-to-one meetings to help you develop your application strategy, identify suitable opportunities and prepare for interviews through mock interview sessions. Teaching will be delivered through a combination of online and in-person sessions.
The Employability Skills module is assessed on a pass/fail basis and must be successfully completed before you can progress to the placement year.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 40)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 60)Important Information
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. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with 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. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
In your second year, you'll have the opportunity to undertake a placement aligned with your discipline. During the first semester, you'll undertake an intensive placement search, supported by dedicated guidance and six in-person workshops at UEA designed to help you reflect on your professional development and prepare for the workplace.
If you're unable to secure an industry placement, you'll instead complete a series of three industry projects, providing the opportunity to gain practical experience with different organisations.
At the end of the module, you'll submit a portfolio of materials from your placement search, alongside a reflective report on your placement experience or industry projects. This will allow you to demonstrate the skills you've developed, your increased understanding of the sector and areas for future professional growth. The module is assessed on a pass/fail basis.
By the end of the year, you'll have enhanced your career confidence, strengthened your CV and expanded your professional network. You'll graduate ready to take the next step in your career, whether in the UK or internationally.
Compulsory Modules
Important Information
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. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with 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. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning, and Assessment
Teaching and Learning
You'll be taught by expert academics who are actively advancing research in ageing biology and related fields. Their research-led teaching ensures you'll engage with the latest scientific discoveries and developments.
Learning takes place through a combination of lectures, seminars, and workshops, helping you build both scientific knowledge and practical research skills.
A major part of the course is an independent research project, where you'll investigate a topic that matches your interests and career goals. Supported by an experienced academic supervisor, you'll gain valuable experience in research design, data collection, analysis, and scientific communication.
Throughout the course, you'll develop a wide range of transferable skills, including scientific writing, data analysis, data visualisation, critical thinking, and independent learning, preparing you for careers in research, healthcare, industry, and beyond.
Assessment
Assessment is designed to help you develop and demonstrate both your scientific knowledge and research skills. Depending on the modules you choose, you'll be assessed through a combination of examinations, coursework, data analysis tasks, presentations, and other practical assignments.
Regular feedback and formative assessment opportunities throughout the course will help you track your progress, build confidence, and strengthen your skills before final assessments.
A major part of your assessment is the independent research project, where you'll investigate a topic of your choice and present your findings in a written dissertation.
You'll also have the opportunity to present your research, developing valuable communication skills and demonstrating your ability to explain complex scientific ideas clearly and effectively.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in January each year.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
Degree classification
Bachelors degree - 2.2
Degree Subject
Life or Physical Sciences
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all postgraduate applicants.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in January each year.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
Degree classification
UK Bachelors degree - 2.2 or equivalent
Degree Subject
Life or Physical Sciences
- English Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
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IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in each component)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies(opens in a new window) for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not meet the English language requirements for this course, UEA International Study Centre(opens in a new window) offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the required English skills:
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- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all postgraduate applicants.
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Fees and Funding
Tuition fees for the Academic Year 2027/28 are:
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UK Students: £14,450
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International Students: £28,250
If you choose to take this course with a placement year, your tuition fees for the first year will be as shown above. An additional fee of £3,500 will apply for the placement year (see our FAQs page for further details).
We estimate living expenses at £1,171 per month.
Further Information on tuition fees can be found here(opens in a new window).
Scholarships and Bursaries
The University of East Anglia offers a range of Scholarships(opens in a new window); please click the link for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see additional course fees for details of course-related costs.
How to Apply
How to apply
Applications for Postgraduate Taught programmes at the University of East Anglia should be made directly to the University.
To apply please use our online application form(opens in a new window).
Further information
If you would like to discuss your individual circumstances prior to applying, please do contact us:
Postgraduate Admissions Office
Tel: +44 (0)1603 591515
Email: admissions@uea.ac.uk(opens in a new window)
International candidates are also encouraged to access the International Students(opens in a new window) section of our website.