Biochemistry MBiol, BSc

Course overview

Many devastating diseases, such as cancer, are caused by just a few atoms being out of place inside your cells. Biochemistry aims to understand how living things work at the atomic level. This knowledge drives the most exciting developments in biomedical research, from the development of new drugs to treat neurodegenerative disorders to cancer therapies and coronavirus vaccines.

How are genes encoded in DNA and how do cells use this information to produce proteins? How do proteins fold into 3D structures? How does protein misfolding cause devastating diseases like Alzheimer’s? How do mutations cause inherited disorders and cancer? How do viruses infect and replicate inside cells? On this course, taught by leading research experts, you’ll explore these questions and many others. You’ll understand the molecular basis of health and disease and how biochemists lead the way in therapeutic development.

Biochemistry is an interdisciplinary subject at the boundary between biology and the physical sciences. As such, you’ll gain a unique knowledge base and skill set from your degree. This will make you highly sought after by a wide range of top employers within the biological/biomedical research sector and beyond.

The integrated Masters (MBiol) gives you an additional year of specialist training, to study advanced research topics and undertake your own extended research project. You may also choose to apply for our 3 year BSc and transfer to an MBiol up until the end of your second year, subject to suitable academic performance. Progression from level 2 to level 3 MBiol is also subject to suitable academic performance.

Why study at Leeds

• Study with one of the largest centres for biological sciences research in the UK, with access to cutting- edge facilities, industry links and specialist research opportunities.
• Flexible options to transfer onto other suitable and related degrees at the end of year 1, as many programmes within our School share a common first year.
• Put theory into practice by undertaking fieldwork activities within the UK, Spain and South Africa. You’ll advance your research skills and gain hands-on experience highly valued by employers in industry or in postgraduate education.

Accreditation

This course offers the option to apply for a year in industry as part of your course. If you are successful in your application and undertake this work placement, you'll graduate with the MBiol, BSc Biochemistry (Industrial) variant, which is accredited by The Royal Society of Biology.

Advanced Degree Accreditation by the Society recognises academic excellence in the biosciences, and highlights degrees that educate the research and development leaders and innovators of the future. The Advanced Accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from the programme meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including gaining a substantial period of research experience.

Course details and modules

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

Most courses consist of compulsory and optional modules. There may be some optional modules omitted below. This is because they are currently being refreshed to make sure students have the best possible experience. Before you enter each year, full details of all modules for that year will be provided.

For more information and a list of typical modules available on this course, please read MBiol BSc Biochemistry in the course catalogue.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

Chemistry for Biochemists (10 credits) - This module offers a concise introduction to modern chemistry, with an initial focus on electronic structure and how it determines the chemical and structural properties of molecules. You’ll then be introduced to organic molecules, functional groups and reaction mechanisms.

The Basis of Life (20 credits) - You’ll learn about the fundamental processes of life, identifying the key concepts that underpin the biological processes in all living organisms, from bacteria to mammals. On completion, you'll have a comprehensive grounding in the molecular basis of life from the atomic scale up to cells. 

Genes to Proteins (20 credits) - This module delves into the structure and function of proteins and how we study them. You’ll also learn about how cells make proteins, how proteins fold, and what happens when this process goes wrong.

Introduction to Genetics (10 credits) -  You’ll explore the different meanings of ‘genetics’ and how this concept has changed over time. More importantly, you will explore what genetics means for us as organisms. To what extent do genes determine our inheritance? How do our genes make us the distinct and unique organisms we are? 

Introductory Skills in the Molecular Biosciences (20 credits) -  You’ll be trained in data collection and experimental techniques relevant to the biological sciences. You'll learn how to use laboratory equipment, design and execute simple experiments, understand approaches used to study biochemical and molecular processes and analyse and interpret numerical data. 

Introductory Skills in Biochemistry (20 credits) - You’ll explore key concepts taught in the lectures through tutorials and lab practicals. This will consolidate your understanding of the subject, develop competency in laboratory techniques, and nurture transferrable analytical and problem-solving skills.

Optional modules

20 credits from the following:

Fundamental Organic Chemistry for Biology and Synthesis (10 credits) - You’ll explore the organic chemistry concepts that underpin biochemical reactions. This will be useful if you’re interested in topics such as drug design and wish to deepen your knowledge of biological chemistry.

Mathematics for Scientists (10 credits) - This module is mandatory if you did not develop your mathematical skills significantly beyond the GCSE level. Its goal is to equip you with the basic mathematical skills necessary to gain a full understanding of Chemistry. It will progress from arithmetic to algebra and calculus, with emphasis on problem-solving and with extensive use of chemical examples. The teaching methods will include lectures and problem-solving workshops.

The Diversity of Life (10 credits) - You’ll be provided with an overview of the evolution and diversity of life, the key features that define each group and the role of those taxa in ecological processes. Each group of organisms will be linked to a major global challenge including food security, disease, and wildlife conservation, to demonstrate how fundamental science informs important societal issues.

Introduction to Immunology (10 credits) - You’ll review fundamental immune mechanisms with particular emphasis on human immunology and its relationship to health and disease. You'll discover how we protect ourselves from infection through our immune defences, learning about the roles played by the different types of leukocytes, antibodies and complement. 

The Microbial World (10 credits) - The module introduces you to the diversity of microbial life and viruses on this planet, with an emphasis on how we interact with microbes that are responsible for infections. You’ll explore how microorganisms interact with each other and how they influence more complex organisms, and how fungi, bacteria and viruses are safely manipulated.

Short Introduction to Human Body Systems (10 credits) -This module introduces the core concepts underpinning the structure and function of human body systems, with an emphasis on how systems are structured, operate and interact. The idea that the environment, exercise or disease can disturb these systems will be introduced.

Discovery Module (10 credits) - As well as the compulsory and optional modules that make up your programme of study, you may be able to choose something different to your main subject as a Discovery Module.

Your journey through year 1

The first year introduces the molecular building blocks of cells and how they orchestrate the cellular processes that sustain life. Lectures in chemistry build on your existing knowledge and provide a rigorous grounding in the basic physical and chemical concepts that underpin biochemistry as a molecular science.

You will spend 6 hours per week in practical classes performing experiments to develop your laboratory skills, build an understanding of the lecture material and bring the subject to life. Experiments include protein chromatography, enzyme kinetics and genetic engineering. Tutorials with an academic member of staff will explore the course material in depth and develop your numeracy and problem-solving skills.

To tailor your course to match your own interests, you will select two optional modules. You can swap one optional module for a discovery module from across the University, allowing you to pursue subjects outside biological sciences (subject to timetabling constraints).

At the end of Year 1, our flexible degree structure offers you the opportunity to transfer to relevant degree courses in the School of Molecular and Cellular Biology. Course transfers are subject to space and academic background approval.

Year 2

Compulsory modules

Enzymes, Metabolism, Health and Disease (20 credits) -Metabolism studies how chemical reactions power life. A looming epidemic of obesity and type-2 diabetes poses one of the greatest public health burdens in the Western world. This module studies how enzymes catalyse biochemical reactions; the key metabolic pathways by which cells obtain energy and break down and synthesise the basic building blocks of life; and the role of plant and animal metabolic pathways in health, disease and the environment.

The Molecular Cell and Therapeutic Development (20 credits) - This module explores how biochemical knowledge enhances our understanding of cellular processes central to human health and disease, and how this understanding is revolutionizing diagnostics and therapeutic development. You’ll investigate the molecular basis of key cellular functions and how their coordination underpins complex biological responses. By applying advanced biochemical and chemical principles, you’ll explore how disruptions in these processes lead to disease and how these insights are used to design innovative therapeutics.

Omics and Big Data Biology (20 credits) -  You’ll be introduced to omics-based approaches at the forefront of equipping biologists to overcome global challenges. You’ll also develop practical data-science skills in comparative genomics, transcriptomics and proteomics in order to conduct group-based and individual research projects. 

Intermediate Skills in the Molecular Biosciences (20 credits) - This module develops core laboratory skills in molecular biosciences through a continuous research project. You’ll design, troubleshoot, and analyse experiments, focusing on gene cloning and protein production. With workshops and practical sessions, you’ll gain expertise in data interpretation, software tools, and scientific communication, providing a strong foundation for carrying out research professionally. 

Intermediate Skills in Biochemistry (20 credits) - This module builds on foundational laboratory and data analysis skills developed in the first year, equipping you to tackle more complex biochemical questions. You’ll learn how to apply advanced techniques in experimental design, data analysis, and statistical evaluation to address hypothesis-driven problems. In addition, you’ll refine your ability to manipulate numerical data, critically assess results, and develop coherent, well-illustrated laboratory reports. This module enables the development of skills and confidence required for independent research in biochemistry.

Optional modules

20 credits from the following:

Introduction to Drug Design (10 credits) – This module introduces the principles of designing new medicines, focusing on how drug molecules bind to biological macromolecules. You’ll explore key concepts such as pharmacophores, intermolecular bonding interactions, pharmacodynamics, and pharmacokinetics, grounded in the fundamentals of chemistry. Through analysis of biological data, you’ll learn to identify structure-activity relationships and solve pharmacokinetic problems.

Fundamentals of Cell and Cancer Biology (20 credits) - This module provides an introduction to human cell biology and the molecular basis of cancer. You’ll begin by studying the key structures and processes within a normal cell, exploring how components work together to maintain cellular function. The module then examines how these processes can become disrupted, leading to the development of cancer. Finally, you’ll learn about therapeutic strategies for combating cancer, including the development and action of targeted treatments.

Human Diseases (10 credits) - This module explores a range of human diseases, both inherited and environmentally linked, including heart and vascular disease, diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders, dermatitis, and conditions related to dietary deficiencies. You’ll examine the underlying mechanisms, diagnosis, and treatment of these diseases, developing an in-depth understanding of their biological basis and real-world impact.

Medical Microbiology (20 credits) – This module provides a detailed exploration of the microorganisms that cause human disease, focusing on bacteria, viruses, and fungi. You’ll learn about the clinical presentation, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of infectious diseases, building on foundational microbiology concepts introduced in your first year. The module explores why and how microorganisms cause disease, alongside the strategies used to prevent and treat infections. You’ll develop the skills to interpret case-based scenarios and apply your knowledge to real-world examples. 

Medical Immunology (10 credits) - You’ll review fundamental immune mechanisms with particular emphasis on human immunology and its relationship to health and disease. You'll discover how we protect ourselves from infection through our immune defences, learning about the roles played by the different types of leukocytes, antibodies and complement. 

Discovery Module (10 credits) - As well as the compulsory and optional modules that make up your programme of study, you may be able to choose something different to your main subject as a Discovery Module.

Your journey through year 2

The second year lectures cover key topics in modern Biochemistry. For example, you will learn how proteins fold and what happens when this goes wrong; how enzymes catalyse biochemical reactions and how inhibitors can be used as drugs to treat diseases; how metabolic pathways maintain and power cells, and how metabolic disorders cause disease; and how genes can be manipulated to create experimental tools and gene therapies to treat inherited disorders.

During the second-year practicals, you’ll spend one full day per week working on lab-based and computational projects. Experiments typically run over several weeks, requiring you to utilise multiple approaches and take greater responsibility for your experimental design. One example is a drug discovery project, where you’ll identify and test potential inhibitors of a therapeutic target protein.

The core lecture material is reinforced with tutorials on topics such as organic reaction mechanisms, plant biology, and strategies for gene cloning and protein expression. These tutorials will deepen your understanding of biochemistry and build further analytical, problem solving and computational skills. Additional tutorials will train you in teamwork, report writing, giving presentations, and interview preparation, equipping you with the skills you will need to compete successfully in the job market.

You’ll also select optional and discovery modules from across the University to further develop and broaden your expertise in biochemistry or subjects further beyond.

At the end of Year 2, you will have the opportunity to complete an industrial work placement, study abroad, or combined study and work abroad. This will add an additional year of study to your degree.

Year 3

Compulsory modules

Our flagship, research-led Advanced Topics lecture modules will bring you up to the frontier of modern research. These modules are continuously refreshed with topics that reflect the cutting-edge research we carry out at Leeds.

As in the first 2 years of the course, a dedicated skills module will further develop a range of transferrable skills to prepare you for your post-graduate career.

Students on the third year of the MBiol course also study two modules to prepare them for their extended 4th year research project. These modules are taken in place of the 40-credit research project taken by students on the BSc course.

Advanced Topics in Biochemistry and Structural Biology (20 credits) - Structural biology is a particular research strength at The University of Leeds and underpins the Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology. In this flagship research-led module you will learn how a description of the structure and dynamics of biological macromolecules at the atomic level allows us to understand and manipulate their function for a range of therapeutic, environmental and technological purposes. Topics previously covered include

• DNA damage

• Enzymes for biofuels

• Protein dynamics

• Natural product biosynthesis

• Protein folding and disease

The module is continuously refreshed with topics that reflect the cutting-edge research at Leeds. 

Advanced Topics in Molecular and Cellular Biology (20 credits) - In this module, you’ll go beyond textbook examples and into the world of research. Experts in their field will guide you through current and ongoing research allowing you to see how research is performed whilst also going into key topics from this subject area like you haven’t done before. You’ll tackle key cellular architectures, processes and behaviours from a molecular perspective, placing your scientific knowledge into a wider cellular context, allowing you to understand and manipulate a range of key cellular processes. Topics that have been previously covered include Membranes, How to build an organelle, Disease Models, Signal Transduction in Cancer and Cardiovascular Disease and Stem Cells. 

Extended Research Project Preparation (20 credits) - In preparation for your research project in year 4, you will be required to carry out a literature review in a scientific area that is relevant to their degree, of interest to them, and being actively researched by a group(s) within the School. In addition to developing skills required of a researcher, a major objective is to identify questions or hypotheses that can be answered or tested as part of an extended research project.

Research Tools and Applications (20 credits) - You’ll undertake a scientific investigation that requires project planning, the selection and adaptation of experimental protocols, the execution of laboratory and computer-based work, the interpretation of experimental data, literature searching, reading and reviewing and report (manuscript) writing. The scientific investigation will combine multiple experimental approaches and introduce students to major research facilities.

Advanced Skills in Biochemistry (20 credits) - You’ll be provided with up-to-date developments, hypotheses and controversies in biochemistry. You’ll extend your problem-solving and scientific communication skills and participate in career workshops.

Optional modules

20 credits from the following

Cancer Biology (20 credits) - You’ll gain comprehensive knowledge of a range of human cancers, from the molecular basis of cancer to the alterations in cells and tissues in cancers to current therapies.

Advanced Topics in Microbiology 2 (20 credits). In this flagship research-led module, you’ll engage with current research in a range of topics which have previously covered respiratory infection and human-microbe interactions. The module is continuously refreshed with topics that reflect the cutting-edge research at Leeds. 

Your journey through year 3

The third year is research-led and allows you to explore your interests as you prepare for your future career.

The lecture material covers recent discoveries that are often yet to appear in textbooks. You will take two compulsory lecture modules (“Advanced Topics in Molecular and Cellular Biology” and “Advanced Topics in Biochemistry and Structural Biology”), which feature topics such as signal transduction, Alzheimer’s disease, virus structure and DNA damage. In addition, you will also take a third lecture module of your choice selected from across the school.

You will undertake a practical project that introduces you to increasingly sophisticated techniques and provides the opportunity to become familiar with the cutting-edge research facilities available at Leeds. This includes our bio-imaging and flow cytometry facility, protein production facility, biomolecular interaction facility, and nuclear magnetic resonance facility. You will also conduct a literature review of your proposed extended final-year research project (year 4), with the support of your supervisor.

In the skills module, you will undertake a variety of exercises (e.g. tutorials, group work, scientific writing, critical analysis of literature) to explore key themes from the lecture material and build transferrable skills in communication and data analysis.

Year 4

Your extended research project will run throughout the 4th year. As you are fully integrated into a research group, you will contribute to internationally competitive research which can result in the first publication of your career. MBiol projects are varied: from molecular characterization of cancer associated signalling pathways and investigation of bacterial outer membrane protein folding to identification and development of new biopharmaceuticals. You will gain experience in a range of advanced techniques such as CRISPR, advanced DNA/RNA sequencing techniques, structural biology, bioinformatics and many more, depending on the project. Alongside you will study Masters level modules from our suite of MSc programmes

Compulsory modules

Extended Research Project (90 credits) - You’ll undertake a two-semester independent research project on an original topic with an appropriate focus for the individual’s host programme. The research will be conducted within one of the Faculty research teams, sometimes in combination with outside agencies.

Optional modules

30 credits from the following

Advanced Biomolecular Technologies (15 credits) - You’ll learn about a range of techniques and technologies which are applicable to modern biosciences. Exercises will develop data analysis and problem-solving skills and expose you to current research trends in the biosciences and to leading researchers in the field.

Advanced Immunology (15 credits) - You will be provided with state-of-the-art research-led teaching focusing on four topics fundamental to the essential principles of the immune system. These include Innate Immunity and Adaptive Immunity, which are central to understanding the host's interaction with an environment containing a wide range of potentially pathogenic microorganisms. This is complemented by examination of two examples of immune deviation, in the case of Allergy leading to immunopathology, and in the case of Immune Evasion leading to sophisticated strategies adopted by pathogens to survive in the face of the immune system.

High-Throughput Technologies (15 credits) - You’ll gain an understanding of high-throughput biomolecular data generation and will provide an introduction to data analysis.

Treatment of Infectious Disease and Cancer (15 credits) - You’ll explore the treatment of human diseases caused by infectious agents (bacteria, viruses, fungi) and cancer by current and emerging approaches, with a focus on describing the mechanistic rationale for chemotherapy, vaccination, gene/RNA therapy, and immunotherapy.

Medical Diagnostics (15 credits) - You’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of current molecular tests to diagnose major areas of infectious and non-infectious diseases.

Learning and teaching

Our teaching is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials and practicals (laboratory or field settings dependent on your degree). We take a student-centred approach to learning and so our teaching is designed to enable student engagement through active learning approaches that include creative problem-solving, team-work activities and mini-projects. In this way, you are able to apply the theoretical knowledge learnt to practical, real-life contexts. We put a high value on practical teaching and so a core part of your teaching will focus on developing hands-on practical and associated research skills.

Independent study is an important part of University learning and you will be expected to undertake private study. We will support you in becoming independent learners through our teaching approaches and through regular meetings with your personal tutor who is there to advise you academically.

We use a range of digital tools to enhance your learning. Through our Minerva learning management system, you will be able to access our extensive library of online materials, some of it designed specifically to support preparation prior to attending classroom sessions and discuss content with peers and teachers. In the classroom, educators use a variety of interactive digital tools to help you learn through discussion and debate. Laboratory practicals are accompanied by detailed online preparation guides and use of electronic laboratory notebooks to ensure you get the most out of your time and develop workplace skills.

On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

We use a variety of assessment methods to help you develop a broad range of skills. These include practical work, data handling and problem-solving exercises, multiple-choice tests, group work, online and face-to-face discussion groups, computer-based simulations, essays, posters and oral presentations. We support students in their assessment journey through the provision of practice questions, sessions on how to complete assessment questions and feedback to support learning.

Facilities

The School of Molecular and Cellular Biology is an international research hub with outstanding facilities for structural biology, biophysics, cell biology and imaging. This is underpinned by a recent £17 million investment by the University and a large grant portfolio from major external funders (the Wellcome Trust, Royal Society, BBSRC and MRC). These facilities underpin our research-led teaching and allow us to offer final-year projects at the frontier of modern research. Recently refurbished teaching labs and dedicated computer clusters will allow you to develop your practical and computational skills during the first two years of your course. The Faculty Student Opportunity Team provide expert support for preparing applications for placements, internships and jobs.

Wellbeing and support

The University of Leeds features an extensive network of excellent services dedicated to you and your wellbeing. We are here to help throughout your time in higher education, ensuring you have everything you need to succeed. For more information on the different facets of support you will have access to, please see our Wellbeing and Support page.

Entry requirements

A-level: AAA

Including chemistry and another science subject. Critical thinking and general studies excluded.

We accept the following:

• Science: biology, human biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics.

Applicants taking a Science A-level (in England) will be required to achieve a pass in the practical element in addition to the standard A-level grade requirement.

When an applicant is taking any of the following:

• Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

• Cambridge International Project Qualification (Cambridge IPQ)

• Core Maths (if A-level Maths or Further Maths isn't studied as a full A-level)

• AS Maths (if A-level Maths or Further Maths isn't studied as a full A-level)

• Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate

It will be considered alongside A-levels and may attract an alternative offer in addition to the standard offer. If you are taking A-levels, this would be a 1 grade drop from the standard offer. For example an A in one of the above qualifications with AAB at A-level (MBiol applicants).

GCSE: Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English. The Faculty of Biological Sciences will accept Level 2 Functional Skills as equivalent to C/4 in GCSE English.

Alternative qualification

Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

Alternative entry

We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.

Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.

If you live in a neighbourhood where there is low participation in higher education, we may be able to give priority to your application.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.

Typical Access to Leeds offer

Specific A Level subjects required – see entry requirement section above.

GCSE: Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE Maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English.

Access to Leeds: Pass

International Foundation Year

International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any component.. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

Fees

UK: £10,050

International: To be confirmed

The amount of tuition fees you pay is based on whether you are classified as a home (UK) or international student. Find out how we assess your fee status.   

Tuition fees for UK students 
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2026/27 are £9,790 and £10,050 for students starting in 2027/28.  

Subsequent years 
The UK government sets the maximum tuition fee caps that universities can charge UK students. This means your tuition fee in future academic years will reflect any changes set by the government.   

From 2028/29 onwards, tuition fees are likely to increase annually, at least in line with inflation, and may rise further if the government increases the fee cap.   

Tuition fees for international students 
The international fee applies for each year of full-time study and will remain the same for the duration of your course.    

Read more about tuition fees.

Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.

Read more about paying fees and charges.

Additional cost information

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.

Scholarships are also available to help fund your degree. Find out more and check your eligibility below:

• Scholarships for International students
• Scholarships for UK students
• Your subject area may also offer scholarships

Applying

Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.

We welcome applications from mature students. We welcome applications from mature students from all backgrounds onto both full-time and part-time students.

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions guidance

Visit our admissions guidance page for more information about applying to undergraduate courses in the Faculty of Biological Sciences.

Application process

The Faculty of Biological Sciences may consider applications submitted after this date. Availability of courses in UCAS Extra will be detailed by UCAS at the appropriate stage in the cycle.

Alternative Entry Scheme for mature applicants

The Faculty of Biological Sciences will consider prospective students via the Alternative Entry Scheme run by the Lifelong Learning Centre. Where appropriate applicants will be referred to the Lifelong Learning Centre, who will advise the applicant further.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2026

This course is taught by

Faculty of Biological Sciences

Contact us

Faculty of Biological Sciences Undergraduate Admissions Office

Email: fbsadmissions@leeds.ac.uk

Career opportunities

Careers support

At Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one. We have a wide range of careers resources — including our award-winning Employability Team who are in contact with many employers around the country and advertise placements and jobs. They are also on hand to provide guidance and support, ensuring you are prepared to take your next steps after graduation and get you where you want to be.

• Employability events — we run a full range of events including careers fairs in specialist areas and across broader industries — all with employers who are actively recruiting for roles.

• MyCareer system — on your course and after you graduate, you’ll have access to a dedicated careers portal where you can book appointments with our team, get information on careers and see job vacancies and upcoming events.

• Qualified careers consultants — gain guidance, support and information to help you choose a career path. You’ll have access to 1-2-1 meetings and events to learn how to find employers to target, write your CV and cover letter, research before interviews and brush up on your interview skills.

• Opportunities at Leeds — there are plenty of exciting opportunities offered by our Leeds University Union, including volunteering and over 300 clubs and societies to get involved in.

Study abroad and work placements

Study abroad

On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. We have over 300 University partners worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America. 

Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

If you choose to undertake a study abroad option, you will spend the third year of your course studying abroad. This will extend your studies by 12 months.

This programme gives you the opportunity to undertake an industrial placement year as part of the course.

It’s important to note, work placements are not guaranteed. The job market is competitive – and there may be competition for the placement you want. You’ll have to apply the same way you would for any job post, with your CV and, if successful, attend an interview with the organisation.

Our Employability Team will help you every step of the way. They run a number of placement sessions to discuss opportunities and support you with CV writing and interview preparations. Plus, they’ll be there to answer any questions you may have and offer guidance throughout the process, too.

Benefits of a work placement year:

• 100+ organisations to choose from, both in the UK and overseas

• Build industry contacts within your chosen field

• Our close industry links mean you’ll be in direct contact with potential employers

• Advance your experience and skills by putting the course teachings into practice

• Gain invaluable insight into working as a professional in this industry

• Improve your employability

Find out more about Industrial placements.

Combined study and working abroad

Our new module allows you to combine both a study abroad and industrial work placement into one additional year of study. Over the year you will study for a semester at one of our partner universities and complete an industrial work placement for 6 months abroad or in the UK.

Find out more about Combined study and work abroad.