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Gilmorehill Campus

Content

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 genetics, proteins and nucleic acids. 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: f you progress to Honours (years three and four) you will study a broad spectrum of molecular topics in your third year to learn the key sciences that underpin biotechnology: molecular genetic methods; genomics; proteins; membranes and filaments; DNA structure and function; gene expression; mobile DNA; biotechnology; essential cell biology; experimental strategies.

In fourth year you will learn to study and interpret primary data from current molecular biology and biotechnology research and you will choose from a range of specialised advanced courses. These include some general molecular topics such as the molecular biology of cancer, the molecular basis of disease and stem cells.

You will also study one or two advanced biotechnology topics: biotechnology; plant biotechnology.

You will have the opportunity to undertake a research project under the supervision of a researcher, the results of which 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.