BSc (Hons) Molecular Biology and Genetics with a Placement Year
Course
options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- CC7P
- Typical Offer
- BBB (specific subject required)
- Contextual Offer
- BCC (specific subject required)
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2026
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
After recent Nobel Prizes for breakthroughs in genome editing and mRNA vaccines, there’s never been a more exciting time to study Molecular Biology and Genetics.
At UEA, this degree offers you a solid foundation in the core principles of biology, while giving you the flexibility to explore and specialise in the areas of molecular biology or genetics that inspire you most. Whether you’re drawn to medical genetics, biotechnology, or evolutionary biology — or interested in human health and disease, microbial or plant molecular biology, or cellular signalling — this course will set you on the path to a rewarding future in science. In year three, you’ll undertake a 9–12-month placement in an area of your choice, offering you invaluable real-world experience to greatly enhance your employability.
The School of Biological Sciences brings a strong research-led ethos to this course. Many of our academics are actively engaged in cutting-edge research, covering a broad spectrum from biochemical, molecular, and cellular biology to ecological interactions and evolutionary processes. This includes both fundamental science aimed at deepening our understanding of biological principles, and applied research tackling real-world challenges — such as protein structure and microbial energetics, human disease studies, and conservation biology. You'll benefit directly from this expertise, with research feeding into your learning at every stage.
At UEA, you’ll also benefit from our enviable position as an integral partner of the Norwich Research Park (NRP), which is also home to the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, and independent, world-renowned research institutes: the John Innes Centre, the Sainsbury Laboratory, the Earlham Institute and the Quadram Institute, all of which have world-class research programmes.
This BSc Molecular Biology and Genetics with a Placement Year degree will not only lay the foundation for a successful career in molecular biology and genetics research, but it’ll also equip you with a versatile set of transferable skills – including data analysis, critical thinking, and effective communication. These skills are highly valued across a wide range of industries, opening up diverse and exciting career opportunities both within and beyond the field.
Placement Year
On this course, you’ll spend your third year working in a placement that’s relevant to your interests, gaining real-world experience and skills that are highly valued by future employers.
You’ll be expected to seek your own work placement, and at the start of your second year you’ll be asked to write a CV and apply to a range of employers. Not only will this ensure that you work within your preferred field, but it'll also provide you with the essential job-hunting skills you’ll require after graduation. We will, of course, offer our guidance and support whilst you’re identifying and negotiating placement opportunities.
During this year, you’ll be supported by a placement supervisor and a mentor from the university. You and your placement supervisor will feed back during the placement to ensure that it’s progressing well, and your UEA mentor will visit you during the year.
Please note that we can’t guarantee any student a work placement as this decision rests with potential employers. If you’re unable to secure a work placement by the end of your second year, you’ll have the option to apply to transfer onto the equivalent degree programme without a placement year or the Biological Sciences MSci degree.
Study and Modules
Structure
In your first year of this four-year programme, you’ll gain a solid foundation in key areas that are essential for all biologists, including an introduction to molecular biology and genetics – the building blocks of life. You’ll also develop core scientific skills through training in important methods and techniques, such as applied mathematics and statistics, preparing you for deeper study and research in the years ahead.
Compulsory Modules
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
Our school is home to world-class academics, internationally recognised researchers and undergraduate research laboratories that are some of the best in the country.
Most of your learning will take place in lectures, seminars, and practical laboratory sessions, which will provide you with hands-on experience as well as invaluable contact time with lecturers.
Our programme modules involve applied work in collecting, analysing and reviewing data, plus observations on biological processes, with a particular emphasis on the critical assessment of existing knowledge. Problem posing and solving skills are promoted through seminars and group discussions. And mathematical and statistical skills are developed in both semesters in the first year.
Independent study
You'll have plenty of opportunities for independent study using our state-of-the-art University library and online resources, and you'll be assigned an Academic Adviser who will provide you with guidance throughout your academic journey at UEA.
Assessment
You'll encounter a range of assessment methods throughout the course to best reflect the subject matter in hand. These include formal examinations, project reports, course tests, practical reports, poster and oral presentations, essays and worksheets.
The balance of coursework and examinations will vary depending on your module choices. Although many of our modules are assessed through a mixture of coursework and examination, a few are assessed only through coursework.
Structure
In your second year, you’ll build on your foundational knowledge with core modules focused on Molecular Biology and Genetics. Alongside these, you’ll choose from a wide range of optional modules covering topics such as biochemistry, microbiology, cell biology, and evolutionary biology. This flexibility allows you to shape your degree around your individual interests and career ambitions.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)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
You'll continue to be taught in a variety of ways, from the lecture theatre to the laboratory. You'll be taught in the major subjects of molecular biology and genetics together with optional subjects. All core modules will develop your practical skills in the laboratories and applied skills such as data analysis and statistics.
Assessment
You'll continue to be assessed using a variety of methods, chosen to best measure your skills in the given subject. Coursework and examinations will be used alongside hands-on formats such as lab reports and presentations.
Structure
You’ll spend your third year on a work placement, gaining industry experience and developing your skills and knowledge. We’ve established links throughout the UK and beyond, and we’ll help you identify and compete for appropriate positions.
Compulsory Modules
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
In the third year of your studies, you’ll be in a work placement of your choice. There will be no formal teaching, but you’ll stay in contact with UEA via our Placement Officer and your Academic Advisor.
Assessment
Your placement year will be assessed by an extended written report and a presentation upon returning to UEA, which will be graded on a pass or fail basis.
Structure
In your final year of study, you'll undertake a substantial independent research project as well as continuing to study several other core modules, including advanced-level genomics which is central to the programme. There is a greater range of optional modules, allowing you to specialise further in subjects of particular interest.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 40)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 40)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)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
Research design and analysis are brought together in your final year undergraduate research project, which we encourage you to deliver as independently as possible. You'll have the opportunity to design your research topic led by staff at the School of Biological Sciences and other institutes of the Norwich Research Park.
Assessment
Previous methods of assessment will continue, with a greater focus on independent work. A large part of your final-year marks will be made up of assessment of your independent research project.
Employability
After the Course
Not only do our courses provide you with scientific knowledge, but they also develop your skills in the areas of research and communication, IT and data science, data collection, analytics and critical thinking. Our graduates have entered rewarding careers in pharmaceuticals, food and brewing industries, medical laboratories, forensic sciences, conservation management, environmental assessment, teaching, science communication and more.
The School of Biological Sciences works together with UEA’s Careers Service to offer you support at every stage of your course, from choosing a career through to applying for graduate jobs and further study.
Careers
Example of careers that you could enter include:
- Healthcare
- Medical laboratory work
- Genetics
- Teaching
Discover more on our Careers pages.
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 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.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
BBB including Biology or Human Biology
Contextual offer: BCC 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, Applied Science (Medical Science), Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management, OR DDM in any subject plus A-Level grade B in Biology or Human Biology.
Contextual offer: DMM in Applied Science, Applied Science (Medical Science), Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management, OR DMM in any subject plus A-Level grade B in Biology or Human Biology.
For 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.
Access to HE Diploma
Access to Science Pathway. Pass Access to HE Diploma with Merit in 45 credits at Level 3 including 12 credits in Biology.
Contextual criteria: Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Merit in 30 credits at Level 3 and pass in 15 credits at Level 3 including 12 credits in Biology at Merit.
T levels
Obtain an overall Merit. Accepted subjects: Science.
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
31 points overall with HL 5 in Biology
Irish Leaving Certificate
2 subjects at H2, 4 subjects at H3 including Biology
Scottish Highers
AABBB including Biology
Scottish Advanced Highers
CCC 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 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.
A levels
BBB 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
31 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 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):
-
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 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, English language at 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.
-
- 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.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
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 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
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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: