Genetics MBiol, BSc

Course overview

With a degree in Genetics, you’ll be playing a vital part in the development of genetic engineering and the decoding of the human genome. Take on the ‘grand challenges’ of medicine and agriculture as you gain a comprehensive understanding of the nature, transmission and expression of genetic information in living organisms.

Genetics is at the core of biological and medical sciences and so upon completion of this degree, you’ll be equipped for opportunities in a wide range of careers, including research, industry, healthcare, forensics and the development of improved crops to address food security. You’ll also develop extensive knowledge and understanding of related disciplines through optional modules such as human genetic disorders and cancer genetics.

This 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 three-year Genetics BSc course and transfer to an MBiol up until the end of your second year, 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.
• Career development is at the heart of all our programmes, with specific modules presenting you with opportunities for workplace training through placements and internships.
• Explore the applications of genetic techniques in fields as diverse as genetic engineering, diagnostics and therapies for human diseases, developmental biology, and human evolution, in addition to biotechnology and crop production.
• The MBiol four-year integrated Masters course provides additional specialist training culminating in an original, cutting-edge extended research project that will equip you with the skills necessary for a career in research, as well as setting you apart in the graduate job market.
• 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.

Accreditation

This programme has been 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.

This accreditation is applicable to the following course variants: BSc Genetics (Industrial); MBiol Genetics; MBiol Genetics (Industrial); MBiol Genetics (International).

The Royal Society of Biology

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 BSc Genetics course catalogue entry.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

The Microbial World (10 credits)

You’ll be introduced to the diversity of microbial life and viruses on our planet and how we interact with microbes that are responsible for infections. You’ll explore how microorganisms interact with each other, how they influence the lives of more complex organisms and learn how fungi, bacteria and viruses are observed and manipulated safely.

Living Planet (20 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 those take 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.

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 elephants. On completion, you’ll have a comprehensive grounding in the molecular basis of life from the atomic scale up to cells.

Laboratory and Experimental Skills (20 credits)

You’ll develop a broad range of standard laboratory skills, including routine calculations, analytical methods to quantify biochemical processes and techniques to study biomolecular and genetic interactions in vivo and in vitro. Practicals will address processes at the molecular, cellular, whole organism and population level within the broader remit of biology and genetics.

Unlocking Scientific Success (20 credits)

You'll gain an in-depth understanding of the scientific process, the formulation and testing of hypotheses, making best use of scientific literature. Hands-on computer practical sessions will help you develop an appreciation of scientific data and the key skills needed to solve problems.

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?

Introduction to Immunology (10 credits)

You’ll review fundamental immune mechanisms with a 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 and learn about the role of different types of leukocytes and antibodies.

Optional modules

Candidates may study 10 credits from the following optional modules:

Biology of the Mind (10 credits)

You’ll be introduced to the foundational neuroscience concepts of structure and function, and how systems-level function emerges. These concepts will be explained using examples drawn from across the human nervous system in health and disease, and from the experimental approaches used in neuroscience research.

Intro to Pharmacology (10 credits)

You’ll be introduced to the foundational concepts underpinning pharmacology: pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, clinical pharmacology, and drug discovery and development. Learning concepts will be covered using cutting-edge examples drawn from different pharmacotherapeutic approaches, disease states and pathophysiology.

Using Biology to Feed the World (10 credits)

This module explores how knowledge derived from biological research is applied to and exploited in agriculture. It considers food production from animals, plants and microorganisms, the different systems of production, the use of biotechnology for crop improvement and the opportunities and challenges facing a changing world.

Discovery modules (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.

Year 2

Compulsory modules

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 develop practical data-science skills in comparative genomics, transcriptomics and proteomics to conduct group-based and individual research projects.

Intermediate Skills in the Molecular Biosciences (20 credits)

You’ll be trained in data collection, experimental techniques, and problem-solving in the context of molecular and cellular biology, biochemistry and microbiology. You'll cover practical experiments in gene cloning, protein expression, PCR, electrophoresis, and enzyme assays, as well as tutorials on data handling and critical reviews of current topics in molecular biology.

Developing Scientific Excellence (20 credits)

This module further develops the core research and scientific skills you will have developed in year 1 and helps you prepare for third-year research projects and beyond.

Human Populations and Disease (20 credits)

In this module, you’ll learn about human populations and their relationships with the environment. Human evolution will be explored, including the underlying principles that lead to genetic differences between individuals and populations.

Epidemiological aspects cover the analysis of infectious diseases and cancer. In addition, genetic diseases are investigated in the context of genome organisation, mutation and gene expression, including clinical approaches to diagnosis of cytogenetic abnormalities. This course offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing you to tackle real-world challenges in the fields of epidemiology and human genetics.

Human Genetics or Model Systems modules

Choose between studying Human Genetics or Model Systems in your second year.

Candidates studying Human Genetics will be required to study the following compulsory modules:

Medical Immunology (10 credits)

You’ll gain detailed knowledge of the immune system, focusing on human health, from infectious and autoimmune diseases to treatment.

Molecular Virology (10 credits)

You’ll be introduced to techniques used for the study of viruses, the structure of viruses and the processes of their replication and evolution. You'll also learn about how virus biology can be exploited for gene expression and gene therapy.

Candidates studying Human Genetics will be required to study 20 credits from the following optional modules:

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.

Medical Microbiology (20 credits)

You will gain a detailed understanding of important human viral and bacterial pathogens and methods of combating these infections.

Candidates studying Model Systems will be required to study the following compulsory modules:

Evolution, Adaptation and Behaviour (20 credits)

You'll examine evolutionary processes to develop an understanding of adaptation to environments, across evolutionary time and in our rapidly changing modern world. The module takes animal behaviour, taught in a behavioural ecology framework, as a specific field in which evolution and adaptation can be explored.

How Plants Live (20 credits)

Explore the importance of plants in ecosystems by studying their physiology, metabolism and key growth concepts. Topics include embryogenesis, meristems, flower and seed development, and adaptations like gravitropism and phototropism. The modules also cover light perception, model systems, and research methodologies for understanding plant development.

Year 3

Compulsory modules

Advanced Topics in Human Genetics and Epigenetics (20 credits)

You'll gain a comprehensive insight into human genetics with an emphasis on disease. Specific topics discussed include telomere biology, epigenetics, DNA damage/repair, DNA recombination and genome integrity/stability.

Biology Integrated Research Projects (40 credits)

Undertake an independent research project chosen from diverse topics, reflecting the expertise of your lecturers. Projects can involve lab work, field research, data analysis, or literature reviews, covering areas like molecular genetics, physiology, behaviour, marine biology, and ecology. You'll receive dedicated supervision from a leading expert in your chosen field.

Human Genetics or Model Systems optional modules:

The modules available to you will depend on whether you choose to study Human Genetics or Model Systems in year 2.

Candidates studying Human Genetics will be required to study 40-60 credits from the following optional modules:

Advanced Genetic Techniques and Applications (20 credits)

This module is based on Christopher Badcock’s 2009 book, The Imprinted Brain. Badcock suggests that imprinted genes influence our behavioural spectrum between autism and psychosis. Students will use an interdisciplinary approach to explore the genetics, pathology, socio-economic impacts, and cultural differences of these conditions. Offered in collaboration with Utrecht University, it includes distance learning.

Cancer Biology (20 credits)

You’ll gain a 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)

This is one of our flagship research-led modules in which you’ll become familiar with current research in a range of topics, including respiratory infections and human-microbe interactions. The module is continuously refreshed with topics that reflect the cutting-edge research at Leeds.

Reproductive Medical Science (20 credits)

This module provides a broad overview of the past, present and future of research-led intervention in human reproduction. It covers basic reproductive biology, the causes of infertility and technologies such as in vitro fertilisation, along with the ethical challenges that reproductive technologies present.

Candidates studying Model Systems will be required to study 40-60 credits from the following optional modules:

Evolution and Population Genetics (10 credits)

You'll cover the nature of biological species and the roles of natural selection and drift in evolution and the attempts made and the problems encountered in interpreting genetic data to infer the history of populations (including human beings).

Social Biology (10 credits)

This module explores the current research in the area of social biology. You’ll study aspects of social insect biology encompassing ecology, ecosystem services and evolutionary theory. This will be supported by lectures on other social animals, such as current research on social networks in vertebrates.

Advanced Topics in Evolution (20 credits)

You’ll participate in group studies of advanced, research-led topics in evolution. Topics may include emerging infectious diseases, variation and speciation, and symbiosis, providing a range of approaches to evolution, from molecular to ecological.

Animal Developmental Biology (10 credits)

How does a single cell (a fertilised egg) give rise to the diversity of complex tissues, forms and functions seen in adult animals? In this module, you’ll explore this question by examining critical developmental processes (including regeneration in adults) in diverse animals.

Advanced Genetic Techniques and Applications (20 credits)

This module is based on Christopher Badcock’s 2009 book, The Imprinted Brain. Badcock suggests that imprinted genes influence our behavioural spectrum between autism and psychosis. Students will use an interdisciplinary approach to explore the genetics, pathology, socio-economic impacts, and cultural differences of these conditions. Offered in collaboration with Utrecht University, it includes distance learning.

Advanced Topics in Plant Science and Food Security (20 credits)

You’ll learn that biology can help address global threats associated with an increased requirement for food production under increased environmental pressures, providing sustainable solutions to global problems. Choose four from a series of six current topics covering a range of aspects in plant science and food security.

Discovery modules (Up to 20 credits)

Students on either pathway may also take up to 20 credits of Discovery modules. 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.

Year 4

You’ll carry out an extended research project focused on an original, cutting-edge topic specific to genetics. This will provide you with invaluable experience in developing the high-level skills necessary for a career in research. Alongside this, you will study a range of Masters-level modules including high-throughput technologies, plant biotechnology and conservation genetics.

Examples of MBiol projects include:

• generation and analysis of genetically engineered plants
• genetic analysis of development in model animals like the worm C. elegans
• genome engineering using CRISPR/Cas genome editing
• Identification of mutations responsible for inherited disorders
• next-generation sequencing and analysis of large datasets
• analysing genetic diversity in natural populations.

The MBiol programme provides an excellent springboard toward a research career in academia or industry.

Compulsory modules

Extended Research Project (90 credits)

You’ll work over both semesters. The topic will usually follow your level 3 project and grant proposal and will be conducted with a named supervisor within the Faculty research teams, sometimes in combination with outside agencies. There will be regular meetings with the project supervisor, normally on a weekly basis, and the project will provide you with experience working in a research group, interacting with research scientists and in the analysis and presentation of scientific data

Optional modules

30 credits from the following:

Global Challenges in Food Security (15 credits)

You'll learn about past, current and future challenges for current and future food production. This will include understanding the major drivers for change in food and agricultural systems, UK and global food security, and strategies for increased sustainability, resilience and climate adaptation agriculture.

Advanced Biomolecular Techniques (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.

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.

Advanced Statistics (15 credits)

You’ll be provided with practical training and exercises in the use and interpretation of modern statistical methods, including General Linear Models, Generalised Linear Models, General Linear Mixed Models and Multivariate Analysis, and their application to biological problems using the statistical package R.

High-Throughput Technologies (15 credits)

You’ll gain an understanding of high-throughput biomolecular data generation and will be provided with an introduction to data analysis.

Discovery modules

Throughout your degree, you’ll benefit from a range of opportunities to expand your intellectual horizons outside or within your subject area.

This course gives you the opportunity to choose from a range of Discovery modules. They’re a great way to tailor your study around your interests or career aspirations and help you stand out from the crowd when you graduate. Find out more about Discovery modules on our Broadening webpages.

Learning and teaching

Our teaching is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials and practicals (laboratory or field settings, depending 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, teamwork activities and mini projects. In this way, you are able to apply the theoretical knowledge learnt to practical and 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’ll be expected to undertake private study. We’ll 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’ll be able to access our extensive library of online materials, some of which are designed specifically to support preparation prior to attending classroom sessions and discussing 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 the use of electronic laboratory notebooks to ensure you get the most out of your time and develop workplace skills. Field courses study the ecology, genetics, behaviour, development and adaptations of organisms in their natural environments.

Wellbeing and support

The University of Leeds features an extensive network of excellent services dedicated to you and your wellbeing. We're 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.

Facilities

Your degree will be based in the Faculty of Biological Sciences, one of the largest centres for biological sciences research in the UK and home to cutting-edge research facilities. For example, the latest technologies for molecular imaging, including cryo-electron microscopy. You’ll also have access to field research stations based in the UK to help you learn about ecology and behaviour in natural surroundings. Clinical staff at St James's Hospital contribute to the programme and supervise some final-year projects for students with interests in human genetics.

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.

Entry requirements

A-level: AAA

Including Biology and preferably another science or science-related subject. If Biology is the only science subject, then an A grade is required. Critical Thinking and General Studies are excluded.

We accept the following:

• Science: Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics.
• Science-related: Computing, Environmental Science, Food Science, Geography, Geology, PE, Psychology, Statistics.

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 one grade drop from the standard offer. For example, an A in one of the above qualifications with ABB at A-level (BSc 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 typically receive a high number of applications for this course. To ensure we treat all applications fairly, we may put your application on hold until after the UCAS deadline before making a final decision. All applications received before the UCAS deadline are guaranteed equal consideration.

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

As per the information detailed in the corresponding section of the University of Leeds Admissions Policy, 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

Our degree prepares you for a wide range of opportunities in scientific and non-scientific careers. Graduate prospects have been seen to be substantial in the field of genetics, leading to a high level of graduate employment after the course. Popular destinations include the NHS Science Training Programme for careers in clinical genetics and embryology, and post-graduate qualifications leading to careers in industry and biotechnology.

Typical graduate careers include:

• genetics research
• genetic counsellor
• clinical scientist, genomics
• scientific publishing and science journalism
• sales and management in science-related industries
• teaching

Examples of recent graduate destinations include:

• biomedical support worker
• laboratory analyst
• postgraduate research assistant
• teacher training
• MSc Medical Genetics
• MSc Business with Finance

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.

We have a dedicated student opportunity team in the Faculty of Biological Sciences who work closely with the University’s Careers Centre.

We offer numerous additional opportunities, volunteering and placements. This includes our annual student-alumni networking event, where graduates are invited back to talk about their work and network with our students, and our STEM Careers Fair. The fair is an amazing opportunity for you to meet bioscience employers, such as AstraZeneca, Labcorp, GSK, Nuffield, and NHS Ecological consultancies. You'll be able to speak to alumni, attend workshops and more.

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.

Work placements

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 an industrial work placement into one additional year of study. Over the year, you'll study for a semester at one of our partner universities and complete an industrial work placement for six months abroad or in the UK.

Find out more about Combined study and work abroad.

Field courses

Year 1: Coastal and Upland Habitats Field Course

You'll take a combination of field studies at various sites on the Isle of Cumbra, Scotland, followed by laboratory-based analysis to develop skills in sampling and monitoring field populations and identification of diverse organisms. Projects will involve developing hypotheses related to their ecology and testing these using appropriate analytical techniques.