STUDY

Undergraduate

BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences

Structure under a microscope
Course options: Professional Placement
Institution code: S82
UCAS code: C760
Start date: September 2023
Duration: Three years full-time, five years part-time
Location: Ipswich
Typical Offer: Please call our Clearing Hotline on 01473 338352 to discuss your qualifications and suitability for 2023 entry.
Course options: Professional Placement
Institution code: S82
UCAS code: C760
Start date: September 2023
Duration: Three years full-time, five years part-time
Location: Ipswich
Typical Offer: Please call our Clearing Hotline on 01473 338352 to discuss your qualifications and suitability for 2023 entry.
Course information table
Institution code: S82
UCAS code: C760
Start date: September 2024
Duration: Three years full-time, five years part-time
Location: Ipswich
Typical Offer: 112 UCAS tariff points or above, BBC (A-Level), DMM (BTEC), Merit (T Level)
Course information table
Institution code: S82
UCAS code: C760
Start date: September 2024
Course information table
Duration: Three years full-time, five years part-time
Location: Ipswich
Typical Offer: 112 UCAS tariff points or above, BBC (A-Level), DMM (BTEC), Merit (T Level)

Overview

This course is a well-rounded programme in the field of biological sciences and allows you to select pathways and specialisms matched to your interest and career aspirations.

We have built two streams into the degree course. The Blue stream is a collection of optional modules that are characterised by human biology and lead to potential careers in human based biology such as medical research, pharmacology, regenerative medicine and clinical sciences.

The Green stream is a collection of optional modules that are characterised by animal and plant biology and lead to potential careers in biological aspects of global climate change, sustainability, biotechnology and Agri-Tech.

Irrespective of the stream, core competences necessary to become a biological scientist are covered in the programme.  There is also progression from one level to another. This begins with descriptions and explanations at levels there and four, moving on to the application of knowledge and some evaluation at level five. By level six you will be interpreting information and using this in an applied way to solve problems through synthesis of new views and ideas.

The course covers life from viruses and microbes through to plants, animals and humans; and discusses how each of these co-exists and can be utilised and managed for the greater good. We believe that this programme generates skilled graduates that would be comfortable and competent in a wide range of jobs in the growing life science sector.

Our students benefit from close working relationships with a highly qualified and research-active teaching team, drawn from UK and International universities.

The academic staff at the University of Suffolk aim to get to know every student as an individual. This may occur through the interactive process of teaching and learning, through tutorials and focused academic support.

Further information about the university's relationship with the Royal Society of Biology is available in the PSRB register.

Header image shows Human Fibroblast-Like Synoviocytes (HFLS) and Osteoarthritis-(OA)-HFLS Cells treated with a green fluorescent vector (Sendai virus EmGFP) prior to being reprogrammed into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Images were taken using fluorescence microscopy at x20 objective; scale bars: 200 μm. The image was taken in one of the labs in the James Hehir Building. 

The University of Suffolk is world-class and committed to our region. We are proudly modern and innovative and we believe in transformative education. We are on the rise with a focus on student satisfaction, graduate prospects, spending on academic services and student facilities.

2nd

in the East of England for graduate prospects

The Complete University Guide 2024

6th

in the UK for spend on academic services

The Complete University Guide 2023

11th

in the UK for social inclusion

The Good University Guide 2023

Course Modules

Our undergraduate programmes are delivered as 'block and blend' — more information can be found on Why Suffolk?  You can also watch our Block and Blend video.   

The BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences course has been developed to produce students with a wide range of knowledge and skills that enhance employability and stimulate an interest in the subject that will facilitate the drive for life-long career in the biological sciences. 

Downloadable information regarding all University of Suffolk courses, including Key Facts, Course Aims, Course Structure and Assessment, is available in the Definitive Course Record.

Timetable for students commencing Sept 2023
Close-up of a student looking through a microscope

This module will investigate the fundamentals of biochemistry starting from basic atomic structure and bonding to then focus on the structure, function and metabolism of macromolecules. Students with differing levels of previous knowledge of chemistry and biology will be introduced to the range of processes taking place within the body at a molecular level.

Cells are the basic unit of all living organisms. In this module, students will examine the structure and function of cells, and the signals that control eukaryotic cell division, adhesion, migration, and programmed cell death. Students will analyse how cells contribute to animal physiology and disease, and be introduced to the techniques used to study cells in the laboratory.

DNA is arguably the most important macromolecule in life and this module is designed to provide a solid foundation of knowledge on which students can build throughout the Bioscience degree programme. Beginning with the fundamental concepts of DNA and it’s role in heredity and the genetic code, the module will build up through expression of genotype to phenotype and the control of gene expression.

This module will provide students with the core skills required to carry out basic scientific procedures and communicate their research in an appropriate scientific format.  The module is based on a series of practical sessions and is designed to develop the skills required for subsequent advanced modules on the course.

This module follows chronologically the development from biomolecules and the first basic cells through to the more complex organisms such as hominids and modern plants. Students will gain an appreciation of the process of evolution through natural selection which will furnish them with knowledge to underpin much of their further studies.

A thorough understanding of human physiology and maintenance of homeostasis are key facets in a range of scientific disciplines. In this module, students will study the way in which different cells, tissues, organs and organ systems contribute to homeostasis from a theoretical perspective.

In this module, we will examine what controls the distribution and abundance of organisms, how energy is transferred through ecosystems and explore how the principles of ecology underpin effective conservation practice. The module will include field trips to a diverse range of habitats and introduce key surveying and ecological assessment skills.

Effective scientists need to understand how experimentation, qualitative and quantitative analysis drives science forward via the process of attempted falsification and how this is quantified and presented. This module prepares students for further study and employment by providing an understanding of inferential statistical analysis of scientific data. It will enable students to understand, interpret and apply most of the statistical techniques that they will see in published articles and allow them to emulate such analysis in their own work.

This module prepares students for further study and employment by providing an understanding of what science is and how it works.  It introduces students to the principles of scientific research and the planning and design of experiments.  Students will learn how to effectively analyse literature and communicate science in a variety of methods.

The module aims to set an introduction to some key properties and applications of selected microbial organisms. Students will learn about the structural, biological and molecular characteristics of major microorganisms, to include bacteria, viruses, fungi and protists. In addition, the significance of microbes in health and disease will be investigated, also with the support of current research literature.

This module introduces students to the principles of nucleic acids manipulation and cloning. The module will include a thorough background on DNA handling, manipulation and analysis. The module will then detail the standard techniques by which DNA can be differently inserted into prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, and its expression monitored. Classic techniques will be presented together with the more advanced, cutting-edge technologies and approaches.

This module has been conceived to provide students with the opportunity to enhance their employability skills and experience through undertaking a 100 hour period of work-based experience in a field related to their degree programme. This module can also be undertaken by students who are already in relevant employment, thereby enhancing their career development.

This module is designed to review the nature of and causation of diseases, by considering environmental, genetic, and biologic factors and link the characteristics of disease to the signs and symptoms utilised in diagnosis. The module will also give the students the opportunity to investigate the positive and negative effects of diet on health and disease.

In this module students will explore the cellular basis of infection via pathogens and the immunological defence system the body deploys in order to prevent the development of infectious disease.  The module will deal with the structure and function of the human immune system in terms of the innate and adaptive immune responses focusing on the cells and molecules involved.

Freshwater and marine ecosystems cover more than three-quarters of the Earth’s surface, however the world’s aquatic environments are increasingly under threat. In this module we will study the diverse range of life that inhabit aquatic environments and explore the issues involved in the management, conservation, and restoration of aquatic resources.

In this module you will explore the biodiversity of plants and the contribution that they make to life on Earth. You will develop knowledge of the biochemistry, cell biology and genetics of plants as well as examine the interaction between plants and species. You will develop an appreciation of the role of plants in food production and supply and how they may be managed and manipulated to do so. You will review the role of plants in mitigating climate change and maintaining sustainability.

The dissertation will provide an opportunity for individuals to develop an area of scientific interest arising from either course-based or work-based experience. The focus of the dissertation will be a research-based study, central to which will be some form of hypothesis testing or problem solving.  It will enable students to utilise practical, intellectual and decision making skills in novel situations.

Students will explore the numerous career paths available for life science graduates, will gain experience of graduate recruitment processes, and will critically analyse their own skills and capabilities to develop, reflect and improve their professional career prospects. Students will be introduced to elements of bioentrepreneurship and ethics. In particular, areas such as outlining a business plan, patent application, intellectual property, clinical trials and policy making.

This module is designed to provide students with an overview of some fundamental developmental processes that lead to the formation of a multicellular organism from a single zygote, up to the gastrulation process. The module will consider some key developmental models with cellular and molecular events underpinning both development and regeneration, therefore linking core stem cell biology knowledge. In particular, the module will navigate the different characteristics, properties and applications of stem cells, with an appreciation of their mode of derivation and ethics behind it. Throughout the module the students will be challenged to critically evaluate the potential controversies in this subject area and will appraise current and developing techniques in the field. 

This module will provide students with theoretical knowledge and advanced practical experience of core laboratory techniques used to carry out experimental research within the life sciences area. The module is based on a series of practical sessions and will give students experience of performing experimental work, collecting data, and interpreting and presenting results, using a range of media. Some of the practical activities presented will provide the students with an opportunity to critically reflect upon contemporary issues in the field of the life sciences including funding landscape, biotechnology business, and the process that it takes to develop experimental procedures with translational applications (‘from the bench to the bedside’), providing the ground for sharpening broader research skills. 

This module is intended to allow the student to draw together a wide range of topics covered at levels 4 and 5 into the applied area of pharmacology and toxicology. This module utilizes understanding and application of biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, genetics and physiology to solve problems. The interdisciplinary nature of the field provides an ideal opportunity for students to contextualise their studies within an important progressive science. 

During this module you will study the molecular, cellular, and physiological effects of common inorganic and organic pollutants and gain experience of a range of laboratory-based toxicity tests.

The basis of the module is to understand comparative physiology and morphology and how unique traits allow for adaptation to specific niches. Specific convergent evolutionary examples will identify key physiological and morphological processes using examples across the animal kingdom.

Course Modules 2024

Our undergraduate programmes are delivered as 'block and blend' — more information can be found on Why Suffolk?  You can also watch our Block and Blend video.   

The BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences course has been developed to produce students with a wide range of knowledge and skills that enhance employability and stimulate an interest in the subject that will facilitate the drive for life-long career in the biological sciences. 

Downloadable information regarding all University of Suffolk courses, including Key Facts, Course Aims, Course Structure and Assessment, is available in the Definitive Course Record.

Timetable for students commencing Sept 2023
Close-up of a microscope

This module will investigate the fundamentals of biochemistry starting from basic atomic structure and bonding to then focus on the structure, function and metabolism of macromolecules. Students with differing levels of previous knowledge of chemistry and biology will be introduced to the range of processes taking place within the body at a molecular level.

Cells are the basic unit of all living organisms. In this module, students will examine the structure and function of cells, and the signals that control eukaryotic cell division, adhesion, migration, and programmed cell death. Students will analyse how cells contribute to animal physiology and disease, and be introduced to the techniques used to study cells in the laboratory.

DNA is arguably the most important macromolecule in life and this module is designed to provide a solid foundation of knowledge on which students can build throughout the Bioscience degree programme. Beginning with the fundamental concepts of DNA and it’s role in heredity and the genetic code, the module will build up through expression of genotype to phenotype and the control of gene expression.

This module will provide students with the core skills required to carry out basic scientific procedures and communicate their research in an appropriate scientific format.  The module is based on a series of practical sessions and is designed to develop the skills required for subsequent advanced modules on the course.

This module follows chronologically the development from biomolecules and the first basic cells through to the more complex organisms such as hominids and modern plants. Students will gain an appreciation of the process of evolution through natural selection which will furnish them with knowledge to underpin much of their further studies.

A thorough understanding of human physiology and maintenance of homeostasis are key facets in a range of scientific disciplines. In this module, students will study the way in which different cells, tissues, organs and organ systems contribute to homeostasis from a theoretical perspective.

In this module, we will examine what controls the distribution and abundance of organisms, how energy is transferred through ecosystems and explore how the principles of ecology underpin effective conservation practice. The module will include field trips to a diverse range of habitats and introduce key surveying and ecological assessment skills.

Effective scientists need to understand how experimentation, qualitative and quantitative analysis drives science forward via the process of attempted falsification and how this is quantified and presented. This module prepares students for further study and employment by providing an understanding of inferential statistical analysis of scientific data. It will enable students to understand, interpret and apply most of the statistical techniques that they will see in published articles and allow them to emulate such analysis in their own work.

This module prepares students for further study and employment by providing an understanding of what science is and how it works.  It introduces students to the principles of scientific research and the planning and design of experiments.  Students will learn how to effectively analyse literature and communicate science in a variety of methods.

The module aims to set an introduction to some key properties and applications of selected microbial organisms. Students will learn about the structural, biological and molecular characteristics of major microorganisms, to include bacteria, viruses, fungi and protists. In addition, the significance of microbes in health and disease will be investigated, also with the support of current research literature.

This module introduces students to the principles of nucleic acids manipulation and cloning. The module will include a thorough background on DNA handling, manipulation and analysis. The module will then detail the standard techniques by which DNA can be differently inserted into prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, and its expression monitored. Classic techniques will be presented together with the more advanced, cutting-edge technologies and approaches.

This module has been conceived to provide students with the opportunity to enhance their employability skills and experience through undertaking a 100 hour period of work-based experience in a field related to their degree programme. This module can also be undertaken by students who are already in relevant employment, thereby enhancing their career development.

This module is designed to review the nature of and causation of diseases, by considering environmental, genetic, and biologic factors and link the characteristics of disease to the signs and symptoms utilised in diagnosis. The module will also give the students the opportunity to investigate the positive and negative effects of diet on health and disease.

In this module students will explore the cellular basis of infection via pathogens and the immunological defence system the body deploys in order to prevent the development of infectious disease.  The module will deal with the structure and function of the human immune system in terms of the innate and adaptive immune responses focusing on the cells and molecules involved.

Freshwater and marine ecosystems cover more than three-quarters of the Earth’s surface, however the world’s aquatic environments are increasingly under threat. In this module we will study the diverse range of life that inhabit aquatic environments and explore the issues involved in the management, conservation, and restoration of aquatic resources.

In this module you will explore the biodiversity of plants and the contribution that they make to life on Earth. You will develop knowledge of the biochemistry, cell biology and genetics of plants as well as examine the interaction between plants and species. You will develop an appreciation of the role of plants in food production and supply and how they may be managed and manipulated to do so. You will review the role of plants in mitigating climate change and maintaining sustainability.

The dissertation will provide an opportunity for individuals to develop an area of scientific interest arising from either course-based or work-based experience. The focus of the dissertation will be a research-based study, central to which will be some form of hypothesis testing or problem solving.  It will enable students to utilise practical, intellectual and decision making skills in novel situations.

Students will explore the numerous career paths available for life science graduates, will gain experience of graduate recruitment processes, and will critically analyse their own skills and capabilities to develop, reflect and improve their professional career prospects. Students will be introduced to elements of bioentrepreneurship and ethics. In particular, areas such as outlining a business plan, patent application, intellectual property, clinical trials and policy making.

This module is designed to provide students with an overview of some fundamental developmental processes that lead to the formation of a multicellular organism from a single zygote, up to the gastrulation process. The module will consider some key developmental models with cellular and molecular events underpinning both development and regeneration, therefore linking core stem cell biology knowledge. In particular, the module will navigate the different characteristics, properties and applications of stem cells, with an appreciation of their mode of derivation and ethics behind it. Throughout the module the students will be challenged to critically evaluate the potential controversies in this subject area and will appraise current and developing techniques in the field. 

This module will provide students with theoretical knowledge and advanced practical experience of core laboratory techniques used to carry out experimental research within the life sciences area. The module is based on a series of practical sessions and will give students experience of performing experimental work, collecting data, and interpreting and presenting results, using a range of media. Some of the practical activities presented will provide the students with an opportunity to critically reflect upon contemporary issues in the field of the life sciences including funding landscape, biotechnology business, and the process that it takes to develop experimental procedures with translational applications (‘from the bench to the bedside’), providing the ground for sharpening broader research skills. 

This module is intended to allow the student to draw together a wide range of topics covered at levels 4 and 5 into the applied area of pharmacology and toxicology. This module utilizes understanding and application of biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, genetics and physiology to solve problems. The interdisciplinary nature of the field provides an ideal opportunity for students to contextualise their studies within an important progressive science. 

During this module you will study the molecular, cellular, and physiological effects of common inorganic and organic pollutants and gain experience of a range of laboratory-based toxicity tests.

The basis of the module is to understand comparative physiology and morphology and how unique traits allow for adaptation to specific niches. Specific convergent evolutionary examples will identify key physiological and morphological processes using examples across the animal kingdom.

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WHY SUFFOLK

16th place in the Whatuni Student Choice Awards for Best Facilities 2023

WUSCA 2023

5th place in the Whatuni Student Choice Awards for Career Prospects 2023

WUSCA 2023

14th place in the Whatuni Student Choice Awards for Student Support 2023

WUSCA 2023
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Bioscience Lab
Close-up of student writing on petri dishes
Watch to find out more
A student working in a laboratory
Bioscience Student in the lab
DNA helix model and students in a laboratory
DNA helix model and students in a laboratory

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements 2024/25

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Career Opportunities

Our graduates will be well placed to secure jobs as researchers working in universities, pharmaceutical and biological science companies and institutes.

  • Clinical/Technical roles within NHS   
  • Scientific Advisory roles
  • Science Sales 
  • Science Teacher
  • Further study such as Masters or PhD

 

Our course also offers an optional work-experience module, as well as a placement year, allowing students to further explore and develop their professional skills and interests. 

Erasmus Plus Opportunities

We are pleased to be able to offer our students an opportunity to engage in the Erasmus Plus Program. This involves conducting their final year Dissertation projects abroad at the University of Palermo, Italy. At the University of Suffolk we believe in building a positive, collaborative, international environment and our involvement in Erasmus Plus Program help us in establishing these goals.

Your Course Team

Cátia Marques

Catia is Course Leader in Biological Sciences and has worked in cell research in several laboratories across Europe.

Catia Marques staff profile photo

Dr Federica Masieri

Federica is Associate Professor and Course Leader in MSc Regenerative Medicine.

Federica Masieri staff profile photo

Dr Christopher Turner

Christopher is Head of Life Science. His research studies animals at all levels, from their molecular and cell biology to their behaviour and ecology.

Robert Ellis

Rob is Associate Dean for Learning, Teaching and the Student Experience as well as the Director of Life Sciences.

Rob Ellis staff profile photo

Richard Farrar

Richard teaches and leads a number of modules on the School’s undergraduate programmes including BSc Nutrition and Human Health and BSc Bioscience.

Richard Farrar staff profile photo

Dr Andres Arce

Andres is Lecturer in Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation Science, interested in the ecology and evolution of adaptation to harmful or stressful environments.

Dr Mark Bowler

Mark is Course Leader in Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation Science. He works on wildlife distributions and the effects of human activity on animal populations.

Dr Vanessa Sharp

Vanessa is Lecturer in Nutrition and Human Health within Life Sciences across Nutrition and Human Health, Biomedical Science and Biological Science courses.

Vanessa Sharp staff profile photo

David Bowers

David is Senior Lecturer in Life Sciences (Maths) and a mathematician, statistician and learning developer.

David Bowers staff profile photo

Dr Imogen Butcher

Imogen is a lecturer on the Biomedical Science and Bioscience degree courses.

Dr Nick Tucker

Nick is course leader for Biomedical Sciences and is a molecular microbiologist interested in the biology of Pseudomonas bacteria.

Dr Silvia Atanasio

Silvia is a Senior Laboratory Technical Learning Instructor, responsible for the running of Life Science laboratories and providing technical support.

Silvia Atanasio staff profile photo

Svetlana Gretton

Svetlana is a Life Science Technical Learning Instructor in the School of Technology, Business and Arts.

Svetlana Gretton staff profile photo

Fees and Funding

UK Full-time Tuition Fee

£9,250

per year
UK Part-time Tuition Fee

£1,454*

per 20 credit module
International Full-time Tuition Fee

£14,598

per year

*Please contact the Student Centre for further details

The decision to study a degree is an investment into your future, there are various means of support available to you in order to help fund your tuition fees and living costs. You can apply for funding from the Spring before your course starts.

UK Fees and Finance UK Bursaries and Scholarships International Fees and Scholarships

Fees and Funding

UK Full-time Tuition Fee

£9,250

per year
UK Part-time Tuition Fee

£1,454*

per 20 credit module
International Full-time Tuition Fee

£15,210

per year

*Please contact the Student Centre for further details

The decision to study a degree is an investment into your future, there are various means of support available to you in order to help fund your tuition fees and living costs. You can apply for funding from the Spring before your course starts.

UK Fees and Finance UK Bursaries and Scholarships International Fees and Scholarships

Ipswich Award

The University of Suffolk is offering a £1,000 Award for students joining the University of Suffolk’s Ipswich campus. The Award is based on specific eligibility criteria based on your year of entry.

More information
A group of students walking down a stairwell

How to Apply

To study this course on a full-time basis, you can apply through UCAS. As well as providing your academic qualifications, you’ll be able to showcase your skills, qualities and passion for the subject.

Apply Now Further Information on Applying
A silhouette of a student in their cap and gown

Kingsley, Bioscience Student

"You will be provided with personalised teaching, which will allow you to have unique opportunities such as being involved in cell culture."

read more
Close-up of someone holding a microscope slide

Related Courses

Cells under a microscope
BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences (with Foundation Year)

This course provides students with the subject knowledge, study skills and personal confidence to succeed at degree level in a bioscience subject.

Bacteria sample
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science

Biomedical science is a well-established but nonetheless dynamic and rapidly evolving scientific discipline aimed at improving our understanding of human health and disease.

Microscope showing blood cells
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science (with Foundation Year)

The integrated Foundation Year provides students with the subject knowledge, study skills and personal confidence required to successfully progress towards obtaining a BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science degree.

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