Venues

King's Buildings Campus

Content

Year 1
As an integral part of your studies, you will gain key skills which will enhance your long-term employability.

In addition, you will learn core laboratory techniques and study modern biology subjects which span the breadth of the biological sciences subject areas and may also include biological chemistry.

There will be compulsory courses dependent on your chosen programme path and you can also choose option courses, which can be from other academic areas from across the University.

Year 2
You will begin to specialise in a specific biological sciences area. There are opportunities to study within areas such as molecular and cellular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, genetics, ecology, evolution, and animal and plant biology.

You can still choose courses from other areas of the University as option course choices. At the end of Year 2, you will progress into your chosen biological subject specialisation which will lead to your honours programme of choice.

Year 3
You will specialise in a chosen area of biology, choosing from our subject specialisations: biochemistry; biotechnology; cell biology; development, regeneration and stem cells; ecology; evolutionary biology; genetics; immunology; molecular biology; molecular genetics; plant science or zoology.

These prepare you for exploring scientific literature, analysis of scientific data and research work. Courses involve training in laboratory skills, with specific courses concentrating on fieldwork. Some students can also take the opportunity to study abroad.

Year 4
You will study your chosen subject area at a deeper scientific level. Taking part in seminars and debates on scientific papers with staff and other students will develop your presentation, discussion and critical appraisal skills. All students undertake an individual research project.

Entry Requirements

2025 entry requirements

Standard entry:
4 Highers at AAAB (by end of S5 preferred) including Biology and Chemistry, with one of these subjects or Maths (or Applications of Maths) or Physics at A, plus English at National 5 at C and Maths or Physics at B. Advanced Higher Biology and Chemistry highly recommended.

For entry to year 2 you would need Advanced Higher Biology, Chemistry and Maths or Physics at AAA.

Widening access entry:
4 Highers at AABB (by end of S6) including Biology and Chemistry, with one of these subjects or Maths (or Applications of Maths) or Physics at A, plus English at National 5 at C and Maths or Physics at B. Advanced Higher Biology and Chemistry highly recommended.