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Gilmorehill Campus

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Year 1: In your first year you will be given a general introduction to all aspects of modern biology and encouraged to acquire general scientific skills.

You will also study two other subjects in year 1 according to your interests: see Degrees in Arts, Science and Social Sciences.

Year 2: In your second year, you will be introduced to the study of animal diversity and ecology. You will also be able to choose from a wide range of other courses.

You will also study one or two other subjects in year 2 according to your interests: see Degrees in Arts, Science and Social Sciences.

Years 3 and 4: If you progress to Honours (third and fourth years) you will study a wide range of topics. There are also visits to hatcheries, fish farms and aquaculture projects. You will study animal diversity and its classification; experimental design and quantitative analysis; ethical aspects of scientific work; evolution and ecology; wildlife conservation; animal behaviour and animal welfare; environmental management (aquatic pollution); aquatic environments.

In fourth year you will choose four topics to study in much greater depth. Courses include; applying ecology: conservation and management of populations; Behavioural ecology; Evolution – pattern and process; Fisheries and aquaculture; Freshwater ecology; Marine ecosystems; Tropical marine biology.

Another major component of your final year is an independent research project, which can be carried out in the laboratory, or in the field, at home or abroad. The project will give you the chance to research something new, and the results sometimes contribute to scientific publications.

Entry Requirements

2026 entry requirements

Standard entry: 5 Highers at AAAAA (by end S6 with min ABBB after S5) including Biology or Chemistry.

Entry to year 2 may be possible with 3 Advanced Highers at AAA including Biology and Chemistry plus above Highers.

Widening access entry: 4 Highers at AABB or BBBB (by end S6) including Biology or Chemistry. Completion of pre-entry programme is necessary.