BSc (Hons) Molecular Biology and Genetics

Key details

BSC (HONS) MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND GENETICS

Start Year

2022

Attendance

Full Time

Award

Degree of Bachelor of Science

UCAS course code

CC74

Entry Requirements

BBB/ABC

Duration (years)

After the enormous advances made in the last few years, this is the perfect time to study molecular biology and genetics. Studying this programme will give you a fundamental grounding in the study of biology whilst enabling you to decide which area of molecular biology or genetics best fits with your interests.

You’ll study alongside students from our other biology courses and will have the opportunity to decide how to shape your own degree to reflect the areas of biology you want to explore. This may include specialising medical genetics, biotechnology or agriculture as well as their application in fields such as microbial or plant molecular biology, cellular signalling, and evolutionary biology.

Whichever route you decide to pursue, this flexible programme of study will give you the chance to enjoy modules from across our diverse range of topics, taught by staff who are experts in their field. In the most recent Times Higher Education REF Analysis (2021), we were ranked 17th overall for research quality in Biological Science.

About

The School of Biological Sciences brings a strong research-led ethos to every course we offer. More than 220 people within the School are actively involved in current research, with subjects ranging from the biochemical, molecular and cellular levels to ecological interactions and evolutionary processes. Some of our research focuses on understanding fundamental biological principles and some is applied research such as protein structure and microbial energetics, the study of human and plant diseases, and conservation biology.

Our students benefit from our enviable position as an integral partner of the Norwich Research Park, 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 new £75-million Quadram Institute.

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We’re 17th for research quality!

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Important Information

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the courses listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the regular review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. Changes may for example consist of variations to the content and method of delivery of programmes, courses and other services, to discontinue programmes, courses and other services and to merge or combine programmes or courses. The University will endeavour to keep such changes to a minimum, and will inform students.

Assessment for Year 1

We use 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 and fieldwork reports, poster and oral presentations, essays and worksheets.

Your 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, some are assessed only through coursework.

Structure

This three-year degree programme allows you to develop your knowledge of biology in the first year, alongside your training in essential scientific methods and techniques. In your second year you will have the chance to specialise, selecting optional modules according to your own interests, and in the final year you will have the opportunity to undertake a substantial independent research project.

Your first year of study gives you a thorough introduction to areas which are essential for all biologists and are fundamental to the study of life processes. You will also receive training in essential scientific methods and techniques, including applied mathematics and statistics.

Teaching and Learning

Our School is home to world-class academics and internationally recognised researchers. And we’re proud to say we have some of the best facilities in the country, including our fantastic, new undergraduate practical laboratories, that were completed in July 2019.

The majority of your learning will take place in lectures, seminars, practical laboratory sessions and fieldwork, 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 a major focus of both semesters in the first year.

Research design and analysis are brought together in your third year undergraduate dissertation project, which we encourage you to deliver as independently as possible.

Independent study

You’ll have plenty of opportunities for independent study using our state-of-the-art University library, and you’ll be assigned an Academic Adviser who will provide you with guidance throughout.

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Assessment for Year 2

Structure

In your second year you will study core modules on molecular biology and genetics. However, the majority of your subjects are optional, with up to seven modules to choose from. They cover a variety of subjects, from biochemistry to plant biology, allowing you to begin tailoring your degree according to your own interests.

Teaching and Learning

Research design and analysis are brought together in your third year undergraduate dissertation project, which we encourage you to deliver as independently as possible.

Independent study

You’ll have plenty of opportunities for independent study using our state-of-the-art University library, and you’ll be assigned an Academic Adviser who will provide you with guidance throughout.

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Assessment for Year 3

Structure

In your final year of study you will have the opportunity to undertake a substantial independent research project, as well as continuing to study a number of core modules. There is also a greater range of optional modules, allowing you to specialise further in subjects of particular interest to you.

Teaching and Learning

Research design and analysis are brought together in your third year undergraduate dissertation project, which we encourage you to deliver as independently as possible.

Independent study

You’ll have plenty of opportunities for independent study using our state-of-the-art University library, and you’ll be assigned an Academic Adviser who will provide you with guidance throughout.

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Assessment for Year 1

Compulsory Modules

BIODIVERSITY

Code BIO-4001A

Credits 20

This module explores life on Earth. You will be introduced to the major groups of microorganisms, plants and animals. You will explore the evolutionary relationships that link the major groups and discover the immense biodiversity of living organisms. Central to this evolutionary path is how microorganisms, plants and animal invaded the land and coped with limited water. You will study this subject through lectures, workshops, laboratory-based practical classes and field trips. You will gain practical experience handling a wide range of organisms and learn how to report experimental work that you carry out. A key part of this module is the production of a learning portfolio which will help you to develop independent study skills in relation to the topic of the module.

EVOLUTION, BEHAVIOUR AND ECOLOGY

Code BIO-4002B

Credits 20

Why do trees grow tall? Why do male birds have long bright feathers? Why do people cooperate? Why does sex exist? Why do we grow old and die? These and other questions in biology can be understood if we learn how to think in terms of natural selection and adaptation. This module introduces the main concepts in evolutionary theory, from the original ideas introduced by Darwin to the modern developments, and uses these concepts to understand a wide range of topics in behaviour and ecology. We start from evolution and discuss how Darwin arrived at the idea of natural selection, its critiques and how to address them; we then study the basics of Mendelian genetics and population genetics and learn how to check if a population is evolving’ we discuss adaptation and optimization in biology; then we move to specific issues like the evolution of reproductive systems and life cycles, the evolution of stable sex-ratios and coevolution between species; we discuss the concept of selfish genes and how it helps us think in terms of adaptation; we study the methods used to understand long-term evolution and speciation; and we conclude the first part with ideas from evolutionary medicine to understand why we get sick, and human evolution and social behaviour. In the second part of the module we focus to ecology: we discuss the general concepts of abiotic limits, resources and models of intraspecific competition and logistic growth; we learn the basic concepts of demography and population growth, interspecific competition, predation, predator-prey dynamics, and we discuss at length mutualism and cooperation in nature; finally we talk about the nature of the English countryside and issues in conservation biology and ecosystem services. In the third part we focus on behaviour: after a general introduction on the key concepts in the study of animal behaviour we discuss cooperation among non-kin and the concept of kin selection and kin conflict; we review animal communication and models of sexual selection and sexual conflict.

SKILLS FOR BIOLOGISTS

Code BIO-4008Y

Credits 20

The aim of the module is to provide a you with a broad range of skills that you will need as biologists and in future employment. You will develop a working knowledge of mathematics and statistics, as well as gain skills relating to information retrieval, structuring writing and arguments, data analysis, team work, presenting work verbally and visually and an appreciation of the role of ethics in science.

BIOLOGICAL CHEMISTRY

Code BIO-4017Y

Credits 20

This module will provide 1st year students with essential information about the physical and chemical principles that underpin our understanding of biochemical systems and cellular metabolism. This module is going to be delivered to 1st year students on the Biological Sciences, Biomedicine and Molecular Biology and Genetics degree programs.

CELL BIOLOGY AND PHYSIOLOGY

Code BIO-4015B

Credits 20

This module will provide an understanding of the key aspects of cell biology and how these relate to the physiology of living systems. It will highlight how these principles are key to understanding some of the physiological processes, as well as the central role of homeostasis in human physiology. It will also explore the function of some of the major organ systems of the human body.

MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND GENETICS

Code BIO-4018A

Credits 20

This module explores how information is stored in DNA, how it is expressed, copied and repaired, and how DNA is transmitted between generations. It has significant focus on the application of molecular biological and genetics knowledge, including animal, plant and microbial biotechnology and synthetic biology.

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Important Information

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring and review of modules. Where this activity leads to significant change to a programme and modules, the University will endeavour to consult with affected students. 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. Availability of optional modules may be restricted owing to timetabling, lack of demand, or limited places. Where this is the case, you will be asked to make alternative module choices and you will be supported during this process.

Modules in this range are core, which means they have to be passed and are not eligible for compensation.

Assessment for Year 2

Compulsory Modules

MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

Code BIO-5003B

Credits 20

You will be given a background to the fundamental principles of molecular biology, in particular the nature of the relationship between genetic information and the synthesis, and three dimensional structures, of macromolecules. You will also gain practical experience of some of the techniques used for the experimental manipulation of genetic material, and the necessary theoretical framework. The module also includes an introduction to bioinformatics, the computer-assisted analysis of DNA and protein sequence information.

GENETICS

Code BIO-5009A

Credits 20

The aim is to provide you with an appreciation of genetics at a fundamental and molecular level and to demonstrate the importance and utility of genetic studies. Genetics and molecular biology lie at the heart of biological processes, ranging from cancer biology to evolution.

Optional A Modules

(80 credits)

BIOCHEMISTRY

Code BIO-5002A

Credits 20

This module aims to develop your understanding of contemporary biochemistry, especially in relation to mammalian physiology and metabolism. There will be a particular focus on proteins and their involvement in cellular reactions, bioenergetics and signalling processes.

HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY

Code BIO-5004A

Credits 20

This module will provide you with an understanding of the themes and principles of physiology and a detailed knowledge of the major human organ systems. An understanding of how disease affects the ability of organ systems to maintain the status quo will be an important part of this course.

CELL BIOLOGY

Code BIO-5005B

Credits 20

This module explores the molecular organisation of cells and the regulation of cellular changes, with some emphasis on medical cell biology. Dynamic properties of cell signalling, growth factor function and aspects of cancer biology and immunology. Regulation of the internal cell environment (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, developmental biology, mechanisms of tissue renewal and repair. It is suggested that students taking this module should also take BIO-5003B (Molecular Biology) or BIO-5009A (Genetics).

PLANT BIOLOGY

Code BIO-5006A

Credits 20

The module studies the biochemical, physiological and developmental processes of plants.

EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY

Code BIO-5008B

Credits 20

This module investigates the principles of evolutionary biology, covering various sub-disciplines, i.e. adaptive evolution, population ecology, molecular and population genetics, speciation, biogeography, systematics, and finishing with an overview of Biodiversity. This module will enable you to understand, analyse and evaluate the fundamentals of evolutionary biology and be able to synthesise the various components into an overall appreciation of how evolution works. Key topics and recent research will be used to highlight advances in the field and inspire thought. Weekly interactive workshops will explore a number of the conceptual issues in depth through discussions, modelling and problem solving. Although there are no pre-requisites in terms of specific modules, students will need a basic understanding of Evolution and Genetics to undertake this module.

BIOLOGY IN SOCIETY

Code BIO-5012Y

Credits 20

This module will provide you with an opportunity to explore various aspects of biology in society. You will have an opportunity to discuss a number of examples – ranging from the scientific and ethical considerations of genetically modified (GM) crops, stem cell research, and designer babies, to the introduction of non-native species, and whether culling should be used a means of species control. You will critically analyse the way biological science issues are represented in popular literature and various media. What was once viewed as science fiction has sometimes become scientific reality. Conversely, science fiction can often portray science inaccurately. During the module you will research relevant scientific literature, and fictional works, to consider both the scientific and ethical arguments for various developments, and to discover the degree of scientific accuracy represented within examples of science fiction.

MICROBIOLOGY

Code BIO-5015B

Credits 20

A broad module covering all aspects of the biology of microorganisms, providing key knowledge for specialist 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.

DATA SCIENCE FOR BIOLOGISTS

Code BIO-5023Y

Credits 20

This module will teach students the tools they need to use computing and programming to handle biological data. As big data becomes more mainstream across all biological disciplines (from multi-omics to complex ecological datasets), biology students need to have skills in computer programming and data analysis. Here they will learn how to organise and store large data sets, run a data science project, and communicate their findings with visuals and clear insights. This module will be available to students in year 2 (Level 5), and will focus on providing students with the data handling tools to problem solve across a range of biological disciplines.

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Important Information

Students must take BIO-6013A and BIO-6019Y or BIO-6023Y or BIO-6028Y (dependent on availability). Students may be moved from BIO-6019Y to BIO-6023Y, based on stage 2 results.Modules in this range are core, which means they have to be passed and are not eligible for compensation.

Assessment for Year 3

Compulsory Modules

RESEARCH PROJECT

Code BIO-6019Y

Credits 40

This module will provide an understanding of how to conduct an independent, hypothesis driven research project. Projects involve extensive data collection, either in the laboratory or field, of a particular topic supervised by a member of staff of Biological Sciences or an affiliated institute. Topics are chosen in consultation with the supervisor. The project report is submitted at the end of the Spring Semester. Students may be moved to the module 'Integrated Laboratory Research Project' based on Stage 2 results. Some supervisors require particular module enrolment for placement in their laboratory.

INTEGRATED LABORATORY RESEARCH PROJECT

Code BIO-6023Y

Credits 40

Primarily an alternative to the ‘Research Project’ module, this module provides you with an introduction to biological research. It provides you an insight into the development of a hypothesis or questions to test, experimental design, and critical analysis. You will develop crucial research and work skills, including group work.

GENOMES, GENES AND GENOMICS

Code BIO-6013A

Credits 20

This module will provide you with knowledge of the biological analysis of genomes. This will focus on our understanding of genome composition, organisation and evolution, and the global regulation of gene expression. When you have completed this module you will understand contemporary methods that inform us about the biology of genomes.

Optional A Modules

(0-60 credits)

CELLULAR SIGNALLING

Code BIO-6003A

Credits 20

How do cells receive and react to information from their external environment? What is the molecular basis for how cells respond to external signalling cues and how does this relate to physiological processes? In this module you will study cellular signalling by ion channels, G protein-coupled receptors, enzyme-linked receptors; the associated signal transduction mechanisms and relevance to human physiology and disease. The module includes aspects of the molecular basis of cellular signalling, structure-function relationships and pharmacology. You will study the molecular basis of cellular signalling by three principle receptor families, namely ion channels, G protein-coupled receptors and enzyme-linked receptors. You will build on your knowledge of cell biology and human physiology to deepen your understanding of cellular signalling. You will learn through lectures and independent study.

MICROBIAL CELL BIOLOGY

Code BIO-6005B

Credits 20

This module will provide you with a detailed understanding of cutting-edge developments in microbial cell biology. You will cover essential techniques used to carry out modern day molecular microbiology. These techniques will be further explained to you in the context of work done on model microbial systems in research conducted on the Norwich Research Park (NRP). The module is taught to you by world-leading research scientists from the NRP and focuses on the structure and analysis of bacterial genomes, the bacterial cytoskeleton, sub-cellular localisation, cell shape and cell division and intercellular communication between bacteria and higher organisms. You will also have research-led seminars delivered by NRP PhD students.

CELL BIOLOGY AND MECHANISMS OF DISEASE

Code BIO-6006B

Credits 20

Do you want to learn about the key topics within cell biology and understand how these relate to human diseases? You will learn about the structure and function of cells in health and disease through a combination of practical demonstrations, where you will experience some of the imaging techniques used in the study of Cell Biology. You will also participate in a workshop, where you will learn how to design experiments. This module will provide you with a solid understanding of aspects of cell structure, function and related diseases concerning: ubiquitination; the cytoskeleton; cell division; cell signalling in motility and wound healing; the extracellular matrix; growth factors and proliferation; cell differentiation and adult stem cells and apoptosis.

CANCER BIOLOGY

Code BIO-6009A

Credits 20

On this module you will learn about the various roles of genes in cancer cell signalling, the cell cycle, cell death processes such as apoptosis, metastasis and angiogenesis, and discuss the potential for novel therapies. The use of animal models and the problems with drug resistance will be discussed. You will develop key skills in the critical analysis of primary cancer research papers. We work closely with experts at the Norfolk & Norwich University Hospital wherever possible, enabling you to gain an in-depth appreciation of cancer as a disease process from both the scientific and clinical viewpoints.

INFECTION AND IMMUNITY

Code BIO-6010B

Credits 20

This module provides a detailed coverage of the biology of selected infectious microorganisms, in the context of host and 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 pathogens are used to illustrate major virulence strategies.

EVOLUTION IN HEALTH AND DISEASE

Code BIO-6017A

Credits 20

The module provides up-to-date learning in evolutionary medicine and the evolution of disease. The module examines how evolutionary principles illuminate and provide fresh insight into a broad range of contemporary health problems including infectious, chronic and nutritional diseases and disorders. Topics are introduced in a multidisciplinary approach that takes into account the relationship between biology and society. The module covers 5 areas: (i) principles of evolutionary medicine - humans in their evolutionary context; (ii) evolution and non-infectious diseases (cancer, lifestyles, ageing); (iii) evolution and infection (vaccines, antibiotics, pathogens, emerging diseases); (iv) personalised medicine and social context of evolutionary medicine; (v) case studies in ancient DNA and human evolution.

Optional B Modules

(0-20 credits)

MOLECULAR ENZYMOLOGY IN BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE

Code BIO-6001A

Credits 20

The module sets out to explain the molecular basis of the often complex catalytic mechanisms of enzymes, concentrating particularly on their relevance to and applications in biotechnology and medicine. A particular focus is the relationships between enzyme structure and function with a view to understanding catalytic mechanism. To enable this, students are given the opportunity to develop an appreciation of the methods by which enzyme structures are solved by X-ray crystallography, and how this data can be used to explain enzyme catalytic mechanism. With knowledge of catalytic mechanism comes the opportunity to develop inhibitors, and the module gives students an understanding of how enzyme structure data can be exploited to develop specific inhibitors as lead compounds in drug development. Through lecture and associated workshop content, descriptions are presented of how a range of physiologically- and medically-relevant enzymes work at the molecular level. These include the mechanisms by which important enzymes such as P450s detoxify xenobiotics and metabolize drugs, and the roles of serine proteases in biotechnology and medicine. A major block of the module content is concerned with developing a thorough grasp of the structure-function relationships of a range of complex molecular motors. The module also introduces techniques by which enzymes can be engineered for applications in biotechnology. There is a 2-week practical associated with the module aimed at developing the skills needed for the design and execution of solution experiments to measure the kinetic parameters of a model enzyme system. A major component of the practical enables students to gain knowledge of how to account for experimental error in the analysis of enzyme assay data and how to explain their results in terms of aspects of the enzyme mechanism.

SCIENCE COMMUNICATION

Code BIO-6018Y

Credits 20

You will gain an understanding of how science is disseminated to the public and explore the theories surrounding learning and communication. You will investigate science as a culture and how this culture interfaces with the public. Examining case studies in a variety of different scientific areas, alongside looking at how information is released in scientific literature and subsequently picked up by the public press, will give you an understanding of science communication. You will gain an appreciation of how science information can be used to change public perception and how it can sometimes be misinterpreted. You will also learn practical skills by designing, running and evaluating a public outreach event at a school or in a public area. If you wish to take this module you will be required to write a statement of selection. These statements will be assessed and students will be allocated to the module accordingly.

WORK PLACEMENT

Code BIO-6033A

Credits 20

This module will enable you to develop a range of workplace skills associated with the Sciences, which may take place across a variety of organisations. This will involve identifying, securing and undertaking a placement in association with the organisation you will be working for. This module will enable you to develop a range of workplace skills associated with the Sciences, which may take place across a variety of organisations. This will involve identifying, securing and undertaking a placement in association with the organisation you will be working for.

Optional C Modules

(0-20 credits)

MICROBIAL BIOTECHNOLOGY

Code BIO-6004A

Credits 20

This module provides an overview of the uses of microorganisms in biotechnological principles. It provides training in the basic principles that control microbiological culture growth, the microbial physiology and genetics that underpin the production of bioproducts such as biofuels, bioplastics, antibiotics and food products, as well as the use of micro-organisms in wastewater treatment and bioremediation.

EMBRYO DEVELOPMENT AND STEM CELL BIOLOGY

Code BIO-6012A

Credits 20

You will study the mechanisms that drive embryonic development, including the signals and signalling pathways that lead to the establishment of the body plan, pattern formation, differentiation and organogenesis. Your lectures will cover different model organisms used in the study of development with a focus on vertebrate systems. The relevance of embryonic development to our understanding of human development and disease is a recurring theme throughout the module, which also covers stem cells and organoids and their role in enhancing our understanding of development and disease, healthy tissue maintenance and drug discovery.

Optional D Modules

(0-20 credits)

EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY AND CONSERVATION GENETICS

Code BIO-6008B

Credits 20

You will gain a deep understanding about conservation genetics / genomics based on an evolutionary / population-genetic framework, thereby covering contemporary issues in conservation biology, evolution, population biology, genetics, organismal phylogeny, Next Generation Sequencing, and molecular ecology. This is an advanced course in evolutionary biology / conservation genetics that will benefit you if you plan to continue with a postgraduate degree in ecology, genetics, conservation, or evolution. It is also ideal if you are wishing to deepen your knowledge in 1st and 2nd year conservation / evolution / genetics modules. A background in evolution, genetics, and/or molecular biology is highly recommended.

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Entry Requirements

A Levels

BBB/ABC, or BBC with an A in the Extended Project, including grade B in Biology/Human Biology. Science A-Levels must include a pass in the practical element.

T Levels

No acceptable pathways for 2022 entry.

BTEC

DDM in Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science). Excludes BTEC Public Services, Forensic Science, Uniformed Services, or Business Administration.

Scottish highers

AABBB, including grade B in Biology/Human Biology.

Scottish highers advanced

CCC including Biology/Human Biology.

Irish leaving certificate

2 subjects at H2, 4 subjects at H3, including Biology/Human Biology.

Access course

Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Merit in 45 credits at Level 3 including 12 credits in Biology.

European Baccalaureate

70%, including grade 7 in Biology.

International Baccalaureate

31 with HL 5 in Biology.

GCSE offer

You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.

Additional entry requirements

A-Level General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.  Science A Levels must include a pass in the practical element.

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 .

INTO UNIVERSITY OF EAST ANGLIA 

If you do not meet the academic and/or English requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO University of East Anglia offers guaranteed progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme:

International Foundation in Pharmacy Health and Life Science

International Year One in Biology (for year 2 entry)

Alternative Entry Requirements

UEA recognises that some students take a mixture of International Baccalaureate IB or International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme IBCP study rather than the full diploma, taking Higher levels in addition to A levels and/or BTEC qualifications. At UEA we do consider a combination of qualifications for entry, provided a minimum of three qualifications are taken at a higher Level. In addition some degree programmes require specific subjects at a higher level.

Important note

Once enrolled onto your course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include your 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.

Students for whom english is a 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) for year 1 entry
IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in all components) for year 2 entry

We also accept a number of other English language tests. Please click here to see our full list.

INTO University of East Anglia

If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:

Pre-sessional English at INTO UEA

Academic English at INTO UEA

Interviews

Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Track. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.

Gap year

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.

Intakes

This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.

Clearing and Admissions Live Chat

We’re 17th for research quality!

UEA is ranked 17th overall in the Times Higher Education REF 2021 Analysis for research quality in Biological Science

FIND OUT MORE >

Our Students

Hear from Kasha about studying Biological Sciences at UEA.

LEARN MORE >

Ask a Student

This is your chance to ask UEA's students about UEA, university life, Norwich and anything else you would like an answer to.

ASK US ON UNIBUDDY >

Course Reference Number: 4478970

BSc (Hons) MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND GENETICS