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Biological Sciences at UEA
Find out more about studying Biological Sciences at UEA, and browse our other courses.
Find out moreBSc (Hons) Biological Science with Education
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- C11X
- Typical Offer
- ABB including Biology or Human Biology
- Contextual Offer
- BBC including Biology or Human Biology
- Course Length
- 3 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2026
Other Start Dates
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Why you should choose us
17th
UEA is ranked 17th overall for research quality in Biological Science
The Times Higher Education REF 2021 Analysis90%
Of graduates go on to work and/or study within 15 months after the course
Graduate Outcome Survey 2020Course Overview
Why BSc Biological Sciences with Education at UEA?
Explore how living systems work while learning to communicate science clearly and effectively. Ideal if you want to understand life’s complexity and inspire others to engage with biology.
- Real-world placement: Gain practical teaching experience through an education placement
- Flexible studies: Choose from a wide range of modules and specialise in later years
- Hands-on experience: Complete laboratory work, a science communication project, an education placement, and an independent research project
What is Biological Sciences with Education?
Our Biological Sciences with Education degree lets you explore the fascinating world of biology while developing valuable experience in education. You’ll investigate how living systems function, from molecules and cells to organisms and ecosystems. You’ll learn how scientific knowledge can be communicated and taught effectively.
On this dual-focus course, you can choose from the same wide range of modules available to BSc Biological Sciences students, allowing you to tailor your studies to your interests. Alongside this, you’ll take dedicated modules from our Education course, including an education theory module and a school placement. This will give you an insight into teaching and learning, as well as valuable real-world experience.
This degree is ideal if you’re passionate about science and interested in sharing that passion with others. It’s a great choice if you’re considering careers in science education, science communication, outreach, or other interdisciplinary fields. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a degree that combines scientific knowledge with educational insight.
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Careers
Career Pathways
With a BSc Biological Sciences with Education degree, you could develop a career as a:
- Biology Teacher
- Science Communicator
- Research Scientist
- Medical Laboratory Scientist
- Food Scientist
Career Support
You’ll receive extensive career support throughout your degree. Transferable skills are embedded across your modules, alongside a degree-long development portfolio. This helps you track your progress and build a strong professional profile. At UEA, the Careers Service offers advice, workshops, and practice interviews. You’ll also receive career support for up to three years after graduation. Our lecturers work closely with the careers service to help you become a confident, highly employable graduate.
After the Course
This course develops your scientific knowledge alongside valuable education experience. You’ll build skills in research, data collection, analysis, critical thinking, and communication. This interdisciplinary approach makes you highly employable across many sectors. Graduates gain strong experience in science communication and education. You’ll be well prepared for roles in medical laboratories, conservation, forensic science, and food science. Many graduates also continue to postgraduate study, including MSc and PhD programmes. This degree also provides excellent preparation for postgraduate teacher training.
Study and Modules
Structure
In year one, you'll study a broad range of topics in biological sciences. In addition to this, you'll learn the key background knowledge and skills required for success in this discipline, such as relevant mathematics, chemistry and data science. You'll also develop your transferable skills, such as science communication, problem solving and academic independence.
This structure will give you the foundational knowledge to enable you to make an informed decision when choosing the modules you wish to study in later years.
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.
Structure
In your second year, we offer much more flexibility, which gives you the opportunity to choose the areas of biology you wish to focus your study. In addition to this, we continue developing your transferable skills and you’ll also begin your multidisciplinary study, embarking on your first module in Education to learn about the role of a teacher in different contexts.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(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.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 10)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.
Assessment
In your final year, you'll study science communication and have the opportunity to put all you’ve learnt in science communication and education into practice on your teaching placement. You'll also have a wide range of bioscience modules to choose from, with focus on studying specific topics in greater depth. What you learn in these modules, alongside the skills you’ve developed thus far in your degree will all help you complete your independent research project
Teaching and Learning, and Assessment
Teaching and Learning
The School of Biological Sciences is home to world-class academics and internationally recognised researchers, whose expertise you'll benefit from as they teach your biology classes.
Most of your learning of biology theory will take place in lectures, seminars, workshops. There will also be practical, hands-on teaching which will take place either in the field, or in our state-of-the-art undergraduate laboratories.
The activities in these classes will vary, and through engaging with this course you'll undertake work in collecting, analysing and reviewing data to enhance your understanding of scientific concepts. In seminars and group discussions, you’ll hone your problem posing and solving skills and gain invaluable contact time with lecturers.
In addition to taught sessions, you should expect to undertake independent study, which will further develop key skills you'll use throughout your career.
In year one, you'll cover a set of biology modules, encompassing the breadth of the biological sciences, including biochemistry, molecular biology, physiology, evolution and ecology. This broad range of content provides you with a sound platform on which to build your later biology learning.
In year two, you'll begin your foray into education study and will also have choice over the biology content you cover. Teaching styles and practical learning vary between modules. Some disciplines lend themselves more to lab work, others to computer work and others to field work. There will always be opportunities for you to put the theory that you learn into practice.
In your third year, much of your time will be spent on your teaching placement, science communication project or independent research project. You'll have the opportunity to choose from more specialised biology modules and these tend to have smaller enrollment numbers, allowing for smaller-group teaching and more discursive lectures.
Assessment
Your lecturers make every effort to ensure that as far as possible, your assessments are useful to you, as well as fair and reflective of your skills and understanding.
Assessment during your degree will be varied, encouraging you to demonstrate a range of skills and knowledge. You'll encounter a range of assessment methods. Depending on your module choice, these may include written examinations, project reports, lab and fieldwork reports, presentations, essays, multiple-choice and short-answer tests, portfolios and evaluative conversations.
You'll also have the opportunity to complete formative assessments. These are tasks you can complete ahead of the main assessment and gain feedback on the submitted work without contributing to your overall degree mark.
In year one, most modules have a mixture of examination and coursework; some are 100% coursework, but none are assessed only by examination. Exams take place at the end of each of the two semesters, but coursework can be due at any time during the semester.
In year two, there is continued emphasis on assessed coursework, particularly in your education module which does not have an exam. Most biology modules have a coursework element and an examination element, but this varies.
In year three, you'll complete an extended research project, with assessment based on a research proposal, report, and presentation. You'll also complete a portfolio for your Science Communication project and another portfolio for your education placement, alongside any coursework or examinations required for your other modules.
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 September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies(opens in a new window) page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes(opens in a new window).
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB including Biology or Human Biology
Contextual offer: BBC including Biology or Human Biology
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDM in Applied Science (Medical Science/Biomedical Science) or Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management OR DDM plus B in A Level Biology or Human Biology.
Contextual offer: DMM in Applied Science (Medical Science/Biomedical Science) or Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management.
For BTEC Forensic and Criminal Investigation applicants MUST be studying one of the following modules: Physiology and Human Body Systems, Environmental Forensics, Forensic Genetics or Microbiology and Microbiological Techniques.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers.
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element.
Access to HE Diploma
Access to Science Pathway. Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3, including 12 credits in Biology.
T levels
Obtain an overall Merit. We only accept Science as a pathway.
Foundation Year options:
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as - BSc Biological Sciences with a Foundation Year.
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall with HL 5 in Biology
Irish Leaving Certificate
3 subjects at H2 including Biology, 3 subjects at H3
Scottish Highers
AAABB including A in Biology.
Scottish Advanced Highers
BCC including Biology. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement, or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
- 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 September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies(opens in a new window) page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students(opens in a new window).
A levels
ABB including Biology or Human Biology
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall with HL 5 in Biology
- UEA International Study Centre
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, UEA International Study Centre(opens in a new window) offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign 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 all components)
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 yet meet the English language requirements for this course, UEA International Study Centre offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
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- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement, or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
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Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees(opens in a new window).
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs 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. View our range of Scholarships(opens in a new window) for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information: