About this course
This flexible, integrated master's course looks at life at all levels, from molecules and cells, to whole organisms. It also covers species, communities and entire ecosystems. You'll develop your research skills and work closely with our researchers as they address major global issues.
This degree will help develop your practical skills and experience. You'll have many opportunities for field trips and laboratory work.
Each year you'll improve your skills and knowledge and use our wide range of expertise in biological science. This includes:
- ecology
- microbiology
- neuroscience
Southampton is a research university. We're home to the UK's first Cancer Immunology Research Centre, and we're a lead university of the Biofilms Institute. Our research feeds directly into what you'll learn on our advanced biology courses.
On this master's in biology you can:
- choose from a range of modules and specialise in an area of biology that best suits your interests and career plans
- carry out fieldwork in the New Forest, Exmoor, Spain and Belize
- work alongside our active research staff on 2 independent research projects
- spend a semester studying at a university in Europe or Australasia.
- take a year out to work in industry
- develop transferable skills that employers look for
Practicals which use animals or their tissues are an important part of the course. These practicals follow ethical policies and we'll make adjustments for you if you have valid concerns about taking part.
We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes.
Our courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).
Accreditations
Course location
This course is based at Highfield.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the Course Description Document
The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.
Entry requirements
For Academic year 202526
A-levels
AAA including Biology and one further science subject.
A-levels additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. A level science subjects considered include Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Psychology, Environmental Studies, Geography and Geology. Where this offer is satisfied by including grades achieved in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics, a Pass in the practical science assessment is additionally required.
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer: AAB including Biology and one further science subject, and grade A in the EPQ
A-levels contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass with overall score of 36 points, with 18 points at Higher Level, including 6 points at Higher Level in Biology and one further science subject
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Science subjects considered include Chemistry, Physics, Maths (Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretation at HL6) , Psychology, Environmental Studies, Geography and Geology.
International Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
D in the BTEC Extended Certificate plus AA in A Level Biology and one further science subject We do not accept the BTEC National Diploma/ BTEC National Extended Diploma without two AA grades in A Level Biology and one further science subject,
RQF BTEC
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Additional information
Acceptable science subjects are Chemistry, Biology, Maths, Physics, Psychology, Environmental Studies, Geography and Geology. Where this offer is satisfied by including grades achieved in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics, a Pass in the practical science assessment is additionally required. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking
QCF BTEC
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus AA in A Level Biology and one further science subject. We do not accept the BTEC Diploma/BTEC Extended Diploma without two AA grades in A Level Biology and one further science subject.
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Access to HE Diploma
60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3 of which 45 credits must be at Distinction.
Access to HE additional information
A core science Access to HE Diploma must be studied.
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1, H1, H2, H2, H2, H2 to include Biology and one further science subject.
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
AAAAAA to include Biology and one further science subject
Irish certificate additional information
Acceptable science subjects considered include Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Physics, Psychology, Environmental Studies, Geography and Geology. Applicants will be required to have achieved a pass in Mathematics and English at ILC Grade C or O4, the equivalent of GCSE grade C/grade 4.
Scottish Qualification
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education.
Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D3, D3, D3 to include Biology and one further science subject.
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
Science subjects considered include Biology, Maths, Physics, Psychology and Geography. Cambridge Pre-U's can be used in combination with other qualifications such as A Levels to achieve the equivalent of the typical offer, where D3 can be used in lieu of A Level grade A or grade M2 can be used in lieu of grade B.
Welsh Baccalaureate
AAA from 3 A levels including Biology and one further science subject or AA from two A levels including Biology and one further a science subject and A from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate
Welsh Baccalaureate additional information
A level science subjects considered include Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Psychology, Environmental Studies, Geography and Geology. Where this offer is satisfied by including grades achieved in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics, a Pass in the practical science assessment is additionally required. General Studies, Critical Thinking are excluded for entry.
Welsh Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
T-Level
Not accepted for this course. Applicants with a T Level in a relevant subject should apply for the Science Foundation Year
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English Language (or GCSE English), Mathematics and Science at minimum grade C/4.
Find the equivalent international qualifications for our entry requirements.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 6.0
- writing
- 6.0
- speaking
- 6.0
- listening
- 6.0
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
If you don’t meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
- our Ignite your Journey scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
- skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
Got a question?
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
You'll study a number of compulsory modules each year. In years 2, 3 and 4, you'll also choose from a range of optional modules. These will help you develop your interests as you progress through the course. You'll complete independent research projects in years 3 and 4.
This course is part of our Innovation Curriculum, so you can choose modules from other subject areas, such as social enterprise or ethics.
You do not need to select your modules when you apply. Your academic tutor will help you to customise your course.
Year 1 overview
You'll learn the major concepts and principles of biological sciences, covering:
- physiology
- biochemistry
- cell biology
- biodiversity
You'll also explore the patterns of life and learn key biomolecular techniques.
A residential field trip within the UK will be a highlight of the year. This will help you develop essential fieldwork skills.
Year 2 overview
You'll take a number of compulsory modules. These will explore areas such as
- evolution
- plant development and function
- quantitative methods
Optional modules allow you to further develop your personal interests. These include:
- pharmacology
- neuroscience
- genetic information flow
- animal behaviour
- microbiology
- pollution
You can enhance your practical experience with fieldwork options. You can choose from:
Year 3 overview
You'll complete an independent laboratory, field or in-silico (computer-based) research project, building on your areas of interest.
You can also develop the skills you've learned so far through a broad range of optional modules, including:
- evolution and genetics
- biofilms
- immunology
- toxicity
- neurodegenerative disease
You'll also have the chance to take a tropical ecology field course in Belize.
Year 4 overview
You'll complete an extended laboratory or field research project in an area that interests you.
You can choose from a range of optional modules, including:
- biofilms
- optical imaging
- cell signalling
- plant biology
- modelling
- cancer and chromosomes
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Find out why, when and how we might make changes.
For entry in academic year 2025 to 2026
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules in year 1:
Chemistry of Life Semester 1 only
Outline Syllabus: The topics will be taught in two parallel strands with one hour lectures in each strand each week. Strand 1 could be broadly identified as organic chemistry while strand 2 deals with physical Chemistry. Semester 1: 1) Understand th...
Fundamentals of Biochemistry
The aim of this module is initially to explain the characteristics and roles of molecules that constitute living cells, including DNA, proteins, lipids and carbohydrates. Subsequently, the fundamental metabolic pathways will be explored, along with the co...
Fundamentals of Cell Biology and Physiology
This module develops understanding of the components important for cell function and looks at how cells function in organs and whole organisms. Lectures will be accompanied by practicals, some of which involve the use of animal tissue, with alternative...
How to Think Like a Scientist
The module teaches how to formulate hypotheses and structure an experimental proposal, ultimately leading to data dissemination in form of a presentation / report / scientific paper. The module connects to real problems, where success in own experiment...
Introduction to Chemistry
Origins of Biodiversity
In this module you will explore and explain patterns of global biodiversity over space and time, affecting a wide variety of lineages. We will begin as 18th century natural historians, considering the impact of new discoveries, due to the invention of the...
Year 2 modules
You must study the following modules in year 2:
Evolution
The module seeks to: - explore the main evolutionary processes - consider evolution at the phenotypic as well as the molecular level - consider evolutionary processes occurring at different time scales
Plant Development and Function
This module provides an understanding of plant function and development at a molecular, cellular and whole organism level.
Quantitative Methods in Biological and Environmental Science
This module develops analytical skills required for the final year Honours Project, scientific research in general, and your future career. The major skills are computer literacy and graphical presentation, understanding of scientific method and hypothes...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 2:
Adaptive Physiology
This module provides insight in various aspects of adaptive animal physiology including the regulation of circulation, respiration, body temperature, feeding and metabolism, the skeletal system and developmental transitions. The way that these systems hav...
Animal Behaviour
This module provides an introduction to the study of animal behaviour taking an integrative approach that addresses animal behaviour from ethological, ecological and evolutionary angles and to review the basic concepts of behaviour as a science.
Behaviour and Ecology Field Course
A 5 day field course held in Bolonia on the Andalucian coast of Southern Spain, within the Estrecho natural park. The field course will take place during the Easter holidays, when there is a large diversity of flora and fauna to survey. As a residential f...
Bioinformatics
The module includes an introduction to bioinformatics and its role in modern 'Omics' technologies; developments in DNA sequencing technologies; bioinformatic analyses of DNA; sequence alignment and biological databases.
Biological Sciences Study Abroad
Cell Biology
This module develops the basic concepts of protein structure and function within the overall context of their roles within the cell. Major themes in the course are intracellular cell signalling and extracellular communication, protein and vesicle targetin...
Conservation management field course
This module will provide you with valuable ecological surveying and species identification techniques within the context of conservation priorities for a local and unique national park, the New Forest, through a series of day trips in order to complete a ...
Engineering Replacement Body Parts
Do you want to find out how stem cells are being used to help treat disease and allow us to live better, for longer? And are you interested in the controversy surrounding them? Do you want to find out what tissue engineering is, and how scientists are ...
Environmental Biochemistry
This module will outline fundamental biochemistry of plants, microbes and environmental processes.
Environmental Microbiology
Exploring Proteins: Structure and Function
The module will revise and extend the study of protein architecture, interactions and enzyme function. During the module we explain common concepts using specific systems. The case studies include studies of membrane ion channels, enzymes such as protease...
Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
The module will introduce the concepts and techniques underpinning geographic information systems.
Global Sustainability Challenges
The global challenge that is 'sustainability' impacts every dimension of all of our lives. Regardless of your degree, the social, cultural, economic and environmental dimensions of sustainability have important implications for your studies, your daily ...
Immunology, Infection and Inflammation
The course will give students an introduction to basic immune mechanisms and emphasizes the basic principles of immunology, including the cells and molecules that make up the innate and adaptive immune system. This first part will show how the immune syst...
Marine Benthic Ecology
Palaeobiology
Phytoplankton and Primary Production
Pure and Applied Population Ecology
This module builds on the basic principles of population ecology introduced in year 1, to achieve a broad appreciation of current theory and practice in population and community ecology. Lectures and practicals will explore the processes involved in the d...
Vertebrate Development
This module provides the second year student with the basic concepts of human and other vertebrate animal development. Students will come to understand the main mechanisms behind both animal development and organised cellular differentiation and how these...
Vertebrate Zoology
Vertebrates are amongst the most successful animal groups. From fish, amphibians, lizards, crocodiles, birds and mammals, you will gain an understanding how the basal members of the clade have diversified and evolved to fill every imaginable niche on land...
Year 3 modules
You must choose your modules from the following modules in year 3:
Adapting to Climate Change and Weather Hazards
GGES3019 is a multidisciplinary unit designed for students with an interest in how individuals and societies understand and respond to environmental shocks and stresses, and their different capacities for adaptation. The focus of the module is on climate ...
Advanced Geographical Information Systems
The module will look at the conceptual, practical and methodological issues associated with geospatial analysis for environmental and socio-economic applications.
Air Quality and Environmental Pollution
The module has been designed to impart the scientific knowledge required to tackle the many problems associated with air and other types of environmental pollution, including how to identify and assess the nature, sources and effects of pollutants, how to...
Applied Plant Biology
This module provides a broad introduction to the applied use of plants in the modern world. The module will cover the production of transgenic (GM) plants and their applications in a variety of areas including medical biotechnology, nutrition, phytoremedi...
Behavioural Ecology
Behavioural ecology considers the evolutionary pressures that shape behaviour. This module will explore animal behaviours from evolutionary biology and population ecological perspectives. Each week, lectures will consider a different behavioural ecology t...
Biodiversity and Conservation
This module concerns global biodiversity, what we understand by it and why it is in crisis, and current efforts to conserve and manage it. We begin with an appraisal of different values of diversity at scales from genetic to species, communities and ecosy...
Bioethics Project
While scientific discovery may be ethically neutral, its application can raise profound ethical questions, in which there is often disagreement and misunderstanding in both the scientific community and the general public. It is therefore important to unde...
Biofilms and Microbial Communities
This module aims to provide an understanding of bacterial biofilms and the environmental, industrial and health care problems related to complex microbial consortia of societal importance. Students will learn to describe and explain the basis for biofilm ...
Bioinformatics and Systems Biology
Large-scale approaches at the molecular, cellular, organismal and ecological level are revolutionizing biology by enabling systems-level questions to be addressed. In many cases, these approaches are driven by technologies that allow the components of bio...
Biomedical Parasitology
This module will introduce the main issues in parasitology, the host parasite interaction and how it drives evolutionary changes, the disease burden caused by parasites and how parasite infections can be treated/minimised. Lectures will be accompanied ...
Biomedical Technology
This course is designed to illustrate the ways in which the theoretical principles of biochemistry, cellular and molecular biology presented in previous courses can be applied to yield important commercial or therapeutic products or processes.
Cancer Chromosome Biology
This module will deliver a comprehensive analysis of selected topics associated with the cellular and molecular mechanisms that drive cancer development and lead to tumour progression. This will involve exploring the genetic drivers of disease, the mechan...
Cell Signalling in Health and Disease
This module comprises an introduction/revision to inflammatory mediators and a detailed survey of the way that they interact in different diseases. This information is integrated in the context of a number of inflammatory diseases affecting a range of dif...
Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
The aim of this module is to provide an understanding of the molecular and cellular basis of brain function. We will use examples of specific molecules and cell-cell interactions to provide explicit details of such function to highlight core principles of...
Current Topics in Cell and Developmental Biology
This module provides a detailed and up-to-date study of a small number of topics in modern cell biology
Environmental Law and Management
This module will enable students to apply their understanding of environmental problems and assess potential solutions through the application of law, policy, and management. The lecture sessions will introduce and analyse the theoretical development and ...
Evolution and Development
This module will deliver a comprehensive analysis of the topics associated with evolutionary developmental biology. This will involve exploring the theory of evolution; embryology and molecular pathways of development; what the fossil record tells us abou...
Evolution and Genetics
Evolution typically happens over long time periods, with organisms being selected based on their environments. But climate change and human factors can also increase the rate of evolution. In this module we show how organisms evolve in terms of their envi...
External Research Project
Each student undertakes an independent research investigation using, for example, a collection at a museum, or similar. The research includes both literature survey and practical components. The literature component will consist of a critical review of w...
Field Research Project
Each student undertakes an investigation which includes both practical and theoretical components. The theory component will consist of a critical review of the literature relating to the proposed experimental component of the project. The fieldwork is re...
Fluxes, Cycles and Microbial Communities
Microorganisms are key players in all the major biogeochemical cycles on Earth. Fluxes, Cycles, and Microbial Communities explores the microbial influence on the biological, chemical, and geological processes that shape natural environments on our planet....
Global Challenges in Biology
This module will consider human-caused global challenges and their impact on marine and terrestrial ecosystems. We will discuss the main causes of global change, including greenhouse gases, changes in temperature and rainfall, and human land use, as well ...
Immunology
This module covers the major topics in cellular and molecular immunology, including antigen recognition, antigen processing and presentation to B and T cells, the molecular events leading to the generation of antibody and T cell receptor diversity, antibo...
In-Silico Research Project
Each student undertakes an investigation which includes both practical and theoretical components. The theory component will consist of a critical review of the literature relating to the proposed experimental/analytical component of the project. The topi...
Laboratory Research Project
Each student undertakes an investigation which includes both practical and theoretical components. The theory component will consist of a critical review of the literature relating to the proposed experimental component of the project. The laboratory work...
Microbiomes and Health
Humans are holobionts: we harbour and live in close association with unique microbial populations of bacteria, archaea, viruses, and fungi. These microbial communities that inhabit our mouth, skin or gut are vital for maintaining a robust immune system, a...
Molecular Cell Biology
The organisation of the eukaryotic cell has always fascinated researchers. This module illustrates the upkeep of cellular structure and function.
Molecular Pharmacology
The module is concerned with a detailed study of the mechanisms of drug action at the molecular level by application of biochemical and molecular biological techniques. Receptor binding, isolation and the application of molecular cloning methods are surve...
Molecular Recognition
Most biological processes involve interactions between macromolecules. The module discusses selected examples and explains techniques used to study molecular interactions.
Molecular and Structural Basis of Disease
The course provides an insight into how molecular studies can be employed to further medical research and aid in the development of novel treatments and therapeutics. The course will cover a number of areas including the analysis of genetic diseases, amyl...
Neurodegenerative Disease
The neurobiology that underpins the aetiology and pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disease has been a focus of intense and exciting research activity over the last several decades. The module is largely a research-led module whereby the contributing staf...
Neuropharmacology of CNS Disorders
The module provides an introduction to functional brain anatomy and important neurotransmitter signalling pathways. This is used as a framework on which to describe the symptoms and treatment of brain disorders with a particular focus on a subset of psych...
Plant Cell Biology
This module explores, in depth, selected topics in plant cell biology that are basic to our understanding of the way in which plant cells develop, function and interact with each other and with their surroundings. Areas covered include: vacuole and chlor...
Regulation of Gene Expression
To provide an understanding of i) the regulation of transcription in eukaryotic organisms, ii) post-transcriptional regulation, iii) the structure, formation and function of microRNAs, iv) how the process of translation is controlled
Science Communication
Science Communication involves the dissemination of science to a lay audience. Equally as important; a good scientist is a good communicator. Science Communication is essential as an aid for governmental and industrial policy making. It is needed to count...
Selective Toxicity
This module is concerned with the mechanism of action of several chemotherapeutic agents, targeted at various disease states. Topics covered include anticancer agents, anthelmintics, antimalarials, antisense oligonucleotides and antiviral compounds. The m...
Short Field Research Project
Each student undertakes an investigation which includes both practical and theoretical components. The theory component will consist of a critical review of the literature relating to the proposed experimental component of the project. The fieldwork is re...
Systems Neuroscience
The aim of this module is to expose students to research level studies in a number of areas related to the function of the nervous system, necessary to understand the pathophysiology of neurological conditions. The course will describe CNS development, a...
Tropical Ecology Field Course
This module will provide first-hand experience of ecology and conservation in a tropical environment and give you a foundation in a range of topics including biodiversity, community ecology, ecosystem processes, anthropogenic impacts, in-situ and ex-situ ...
Year 4 modules
You must study the following module in year 4:
You must also choose from the following modules in year 4:
Advanced Field Research Project
The aim of this module is to allow students to carry out an extensive field-based research project on a specific topic related to his/her main area of study.
Advanced Research Project
The aim of this module is to allow students to carry out an extensive research project on a specific topic related to their main area of study.
Applied Plant Biology
The module provides a broad outline of the applications of plant biotechnology in the modern world. Where possible, general principles are developed alongside specific examples rather than giving exhaustive lists of detailed information. Plants are incr...
Biodiversity and Conservation
This module concerns global biodiversity, what we understand by it and why it is in crisis, and current efforts to conserve and manage it. We begin with an appraisal of different values of diversity at scales from genetic to species, communities and ecosy...
Biofilms and Microbial Communities
BIOL6047 ‘Biofilms and Microbial Communities’ aims to provide an understanding of bacterial biofilms and the environmental, industrial and health care problems related to complex microbial consortia of societal importance. Students will learn to describe ...
Biological Data Science in R
Biological data science is a rapidly evolving field at the intersection of biology, statistics, and computer science. There is a growing demand for professionals skilled in analysing and interpreting data as well as an expectation that students will be fa...
Cancer Chromosome Biology
This module will deliver a comprehensive analysis of selected topics associated with the cellular and molecular mechanisms that drive cancer development and lead to tumour progression. This will involve exploring the genetic drivers of disease, the mechan...
Cellular Signalling in Health and Disease
The module comprises an introduction/revision to inflammatory mediators and a detailed survey of the way that they interact in different diseases. This information is integrated in the context of a number of human diseases affecting a range of different t...
Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
This module provides an understanding of the molecular and cellular basis of brain function. We will use examples of specific molecules and cell-cell interactions to provide explicit details of such function to highlight core principles of neuronal develo...
Current Topics in Cell and Developmental Biology
This module provides a detailed and up-to-date study of a small number of topics in modern cell biology
Evolution and Development
This module will deliver a comprehensive analysis of the topics associated with evolutionary developmental biology. This will involve exploring the theory of evolution; embryology and molecular pathways of development; what the fossil record tells us abou...
Evolution and Genetics
Evolution typically happens over long time periods, with organisms being selected based on their environments. But climate change and human factors can also increase the rate of evolution. In this module we show how organisms evolve in terms of their envi...
Global Challenges in Biology
This module will consider human-caused global challenges and their impact on marine and terrestrial ecosystems. We will discuss the main causes of global change, including greenhouse gases, changes in temperature and rainfall, and human land use, as well ...
Microbiomes and Health
Humans are holobionts: we harbour and live in close association with unique microbial populations of bacteria, archaea, viruses, and fungi. These microbial communities that inhabit our mouth, skin or gut are vital for maintaining a robust immune system, a...
Molecular Cell Biology
The organisation of the eukaryotic cell has always fascinated researchers. This module illustrates the upkeep of cellular structure and function.
Molecular Pharmacology
This module provides fourth year students with an introduction to the molecular basis of receptor pharmacology. The module detailed analysis of the mechanisms of drug action at the molecular level through the application of biochemical and molecular biolo...
Molecular Recognition
Most biological processes involve interactions between macromolecules. The module discusses selected examples and explains techniques used to study molecular interactions.
Neurodegenerative Disease
This module describes the neurobiology that underpins the aetiology and pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disease that has been a focus of intense and exciting research activity over the last several decades. The course is largely a research-led unit wher...
Neuropharmacology of CNS Disorders
This module is to describe basic concepts in neuropharmacology e.g. on the localisation and putative function of neurotransmitter pathways in the brain and to use this knowledge to consider different theories relating to the biochemical basis of action of...
Selective Toxicity
This module provides fourth year students with an introduction to the principles of selective toxicity, in which chemotherapeutic agents are used to inhibit the growth of an invading species (or cancerous cells) by selective targeting pathways or processe...
Skills in Biological Optical Imaging
Students will gain an understanding of the components and optical pathways used in core biological imaging systems which will enable them to efficiently operate advanced microscopes and to understand the theoretical concepts, capabilities and limitations ...
Skills in Molecular Bioscience
Skills in the molecular biosciences are rapidly developing. This course will prepare students for several common techniques, giving them a grounding in experimental design so that they can use these new skills in their current and future research career.
Skills in Structural Biology
Student will acquire a foundation in the theory underpinning a range of biophysical techniques used to study structure and function of biomolecules. The students will have the opportunity to learn at a practical level how these techniques are employed, le...
Systems Neuroscience
This module seeks to expose students to research level studies in a number of areas related to the function of the nervous system, necessary to understand the pathophysiology of neurological conditions. The course will describe CNS development, and the s...
The Molecular and Structural Basis of Disease
The course provides an insight into how molecular studies can be employed to further medical research and aid in the development of novel treatments and therapeutics. The course will cover a number of areas including the role of epigenetic in disease, amy...
Learning and assessment
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- classes and tutorials
- coursework
- individual and group projects
- independent learning (studying on your own)
Course time
How you'll spend your course time:
Year 1
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 1:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- essays
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 1:
Year 2
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 2:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- essays
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 2:
Academic support
You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Course leader
Mark Chapman is the course leader.
Careers
Skilled biologists are in demand throughout the world. They're tackling climate change and disease, and helping policy makers to understand how humans, animals and plants can co-exist.
You'll graduate with the specialist skills and knowledge needed to embark on a career in a number of sectors. You could also continue your studies with a master's or PhD.
With a master's degree in biology, you can go on to work in areas like:
- research
- teaching
- medicine
- biotechnology
- conservation and the environment
- agriculture
- industry
- journalism
Transferable skills in analysis, research, problem solving and teamwork make you ideally suited to work in many other areas.
Careers services at Southampton
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you. This support includes:
- work experience schemes
- CV and interview skills and workshops
- networking events
- careers fairs attended by top employers
- a wealth of volunteering opportunities
- study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.
Work in industry
You'll have the chance to complete a paid year in employment between the second and third years of the course. You can try out a potential future career and apply the skills and knowledge you have learned in the real world. You'll gain vital professional experience and get a head start in the graduate market.
We have links to a number of local conservation organisations, such as Marwell Wildlife Park. Work placements are available with these organisations for ambitious and talented students.
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay £9,250.
- EU and international students pay £30,500.
The Government has recently announced changes to UK tuition fees from September 2025 onwards. We will update our website to reflect this shortly.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and all examinations.
Find out how to:
You'll need to consider extra costs for the following:
- approved calculators
- costs linked to the semester abroad
- costs linked to optional field courses
- printing and photocopying
- computer disks or usb drives
- computer hardware
- textbooks
- stationery
- printing
- parking
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.
Explore:
Bursaries, scholarships and other funding
If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £25,000 a year, you may be able to get a University of Southampton bursary to help with your living costs. Find out about bursaries and other funding we offer at Southampton.
If you're a care leaver or estranged from your parents, you may be able to get a specific bursary.
Get in touch for advice about student money matters.
Scholarships and grants
You may be able to get a scholarship or grant to help fund your studies.
We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from under-represented backgrounds.
Support during your course
The Student Hub offers support and advice on money to students. You may be able to access our Student Support fund and other sources of financial support during your course.
Funding for EU and international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
What happens after you apply?
We will assess your application on the strength of your:
- predicted grades
- academic achievements
- personal statement
- academic reference
We'll aim to process your application within 2 to 6 weeks, but this will depend on when it is submitted. Applications submitted in January, particularly near to the UCAS equal consideration deadline, might take substantially longer to be processed due to the high volume received at that time.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
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Biochemistry
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