BSc Biology with a Modern Language

Year of entry: 2024

Overview

Degree awarded
BSc (Hons)
Duration
4 years
Typical A-level offer

AAA-AAB (including specific subjects)

Typical contextual A-level offer
AAB-ABC (including specific subjects).
Find out more about contextual admissions.
Refugee/care-experienced offer
Applicants who have been in local authority care for more than three months or have refugee status may be eligible for an offer two grades below the standard requirements.
Find out more about contextual admissions.
Typical International Baccalaureate offer

35-36 points overall with 6, 6, 5 to 6, 6, 6 at Higher Level including two sciences, normally Biology and Chemistry.

For degrees with French, German, Spanish or Italian, 5 or 6 points in the language must be achieved at Higher Level.

For degrees with Mandarin or Japanese, 5 points is required in a foreign language at Standard Level. A minimum of 5 points in Chemistry at Standard Level (or Higher Level) is essential.

Full entry requirements

Number of places/applicants
650/7000 (overall data for biological and biomedical sciences undergraduate courses at Manchester).
How to apply
Apply through UCAS .

Course overview

  • Improve your employability by learning a language while you study biology, including a year-long research placement overseas.
  • Choose from French, German, Italian, Spanish, Japanese and Mandarin for the language component of this course.
  • Apply for membership of the Royal Society of Biology at Member (MRSB) level after just two years of practice instead of three thanks to our Advanced Accreditation status.

Open days

Attending an open day is a great way to find out what studying at Manchester is like. Find out about our upcoming open days.

We also operate campus tours where a student ambassador will tell you all about life at the University. You may also meet with admissions staff, subject to staff availability. These tours run on most days and are open to anybody thinking of applying for any of our courses in biosciences.

To book, please email the Admissions Office at least two weeks before you wish to have a tour to allow us sufficient time to arrange this ug.biosciences@manchester.ac.uk

Fees

Tuition fees for home students commencing their studies in September 2024 will be £9,250 per annum. Tuition fees for international students will be £32,500 per annum. For general information please see the undergraduate finance pages.

Tuition fees are considerably lower for your placement year. Please see the fees page for full details.

Additional expenses

Tuition fees are considerably lower for your placement year. Please see the fees pages for full details.

Policy on additional costs

All students should normally be able to complete their programme of study without incurring additional study costs over and above the tuition fee for that programme. Any unavoidable additional compulsory costs totalling more than 1% of the annual home undergraduate fee per annum, regardless of whether the programme in question is undergraduate or postgraduate taught, will be made clear to you at the point of application. Further information can be found in the University's Policy on additional costs incurred by students on undergraduate and postgraduate taught programmes (PDF document, 91KB).

Scholarships/sponsorships

Students participating in placements outside the UK may be able to apply for funding from the UK's Turing scheme depending on eligibility. Priority will be given to students from low income households.

Contact details

School/Faculty
Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health
Telephone
0161 529 4539
Email
Website
https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/biosciences/
School/Faculty overview
Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health

Courses in related subject areas

Use the links below to view lists of courses in related subject areas.

Compare this course

Entry requirements

A-level

We require grades AAA-AAB, including two of Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics (the Core Sciences). You must have a minimum of grades AA in at least two Core Sciences. Applicants predicted/who have achieved a B in their third A-level will receive an offer of AAB. Those predicted/who have achieved an A or A* will be eligible for an offer of AAA.

If you are taking only one of the above Core Science subjects, we can consider you for an AAA offer if you are also sitting an A-level in at least one of Geography, Psychology, Environmental Studies or Physical Education in place of the second Core Science. If your predicted grades are one grade below our minimum entry requirements we may still make you an aspirational offer if you meet our contextual criteria .

Subjects with overlapping content are not normally considered as separate A-levels. For example, Further Mathematics is not considered alongside Mathematics and Human Biology is not considered alongside Biology. If you are concerned there is too much overlap in your A level subjects, please contact us for advice before applying.

We believe that practical skills in the sciences are integral to a candidate’s understanding and appreciation of these subjects. Therefore we encourage all applicants to undertake any practical skills assessment if it is available in their qualification. Where applicants are applying for science and related degrees, this is likely to be made explicit in the offers you will receive.

Language entry requirements

In addition to the above, each language has specific entry requirements.

  • French : an A-level in French (minimum grade B if taking two Core Sciences, or A if taking one and a soft science) or equivalent is required.
  • German : an A-level in German (minimum grade B if taking two Core Sciences, or A if taking one and a soft science) or equivalent is required.
  • Spanish : an A-level in Spanish (minimum grade B if taking two Core Sciences, or A if taking one and a soft science) or equivalent is required.
  • Italian: an A-level in Italian (minimum grade B if taking two Core Sciences, or A if taking one and a soft science) or equivalent is required.
  • Japanese : no prior knowledge of Japanese is assumed, but evidence of linguistic proficiency is required, eg GCSE grade 7 or A in a foreign language. Chemistry AS-level (minimum grade B) is essential. If you do not have AS-level Chemistry, we would require a full A-level in Chemistry (normally grade A).
  • Mandarin : no prior knowledge of Mandarin is assumed, but evidence of linguistic proficiency is required, eg GCSE grade 7 or A in a foreign language. Chemistry AS-level (grade B) is essential. If you do not have AS-level Chemistry, we would require a full A-level in Chemistry (normally grade A).

Contextual offer

Contextual offer: AAB-ABB (including specific subjects).

Typical WP++ Contextual offer: ABB-ABC (including specific subjects).

AS-level

AS-level results are not considered as part of the standard admissions process at The University of Manchester.

Unit grade information

The University of Manchester welcomes the provision of unit information where available. Like all other information provided by applicants this may be taken into consideration when assessing your application. Unit grades will not normally form part of an offer conditions.

GCSE

Applicants must demonstrate a broad general education including acceptable levels of Literacy and Numeracy, equivalent to at least Grade 4 or C in GCSE/IGCSE English Language and Mathematics. GCSE/IGCSE English Literature will not be accepted in lieu of GCSE/IGCSE English Language.

Please note that if you hold English as a Second Language IGCSE qualification, we may also require you to provide one of our acceptable equivalent English Language qualifications or achieve a higher grade in your IGCSE than the one stated above. Please contact ug.biosciences@manchester.ac.uk for clarification.

International Baccalaureate

35-36 points overall with 6, 6, 5 to 6, 6, 6 at Higher Level including two sciences, normally Biology and Chemistry.

For degrees with French, German, Spanish or Italian, 5 or 6 points in the language must be achieved at Higher Level.

For degrees with Mandarin or Japanese, 5 points is required in a foreign language at Standard Level. A minimum of 5 points in Chemistry at Standard Level (or Higher Level) is essential.

Other international entry requirements

We welcome applications from overseas students. Please see our international entry requirements page for individual country requirements.

Scottish requirements

Scottish Advanced Highers are normally required in one of the following combinations:

  • Three Advanced Highers with grades AAA-BBB including two science subjects, normally Biology and Chemistry or
  • Two Advanced Highers with grades AA-BB in two science subjects, normally Biology and Chemistry, plus two additional Highers with grades AA-BB.

In addition to the above, due to the additional language requirement for this course, you will also need a minimum of grade B in the relevant language Scottish Advanced Highers or an acceptable equivalent language qualification if taking two core sciences, or grade A if taking one core science and one soft science. The only exceptions are Mandarin and Japanese for which we require grade A in National 5/grade A in Intermediate 2/grade 1 in Standard Grade Credit level in a foreign language and B in Scottish Highers Chemistry. For further details, please contact ug.biosciences@manchester.ac.uk

Students with Highers only with grades AAAAA-AABBB may be considered for the Foundation Year. English Language and Mathematics not taken at Higher/Advanced Higher must have been achieved at SCQF level 5 (minimum National 5 grade C/Intermediate 2 grade C/Standard Grade Credit level grade 3).

If you require further clarification about the acceptability of this qualification please contact ug.biosciences@manchester.ac.uk

Welsh Baccalaureate

The University welcomes and recognises the value of the Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma/Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate and would usually consider it when taken with two science A-levels.

If you are taking two core science subjects, the minimum grade required will be A or B (depending on your predicted grade), or grade A if you are taking one core science and one soft science.

However, due to the additional language requirement for the degrees with French, German, Spanish or Italian, this qualification may not form part of your offer conditions.

For further details, please contact ug.biosciences@manchester.ac.uk .

European Baccalaureate

The University of Manchester welcomes applicants with the European Baccalaureate. Acceptable on its own or in combination with other qualifications, applications from students studying for this qualification are welcome and all applicants will be considered on an individual basis.

We normally require: an award at 75%-80% or above overall, with a minimum of 7.5-8 in three written subjects including two science subjects.

In addition, all applicants are required to demonstrate proficiency in English Language. We accept a score of 7.0 or 70% in English Language in the EB at L1, 8 or 80% if at L2, or 8.5 or 85% if at L3. Alternatively, you may provide a separate English Language qualification such as IELTS 6.5 in each component.

For French, Spanish, Italian and German, students must achieve 7 in their chosen language. Applicants with an acceptable qualification in a foreign language can also be considered for Mandarin and Japanese provided their science subjects include Chemistry.

Please contact ug.biosciences@manchester.ac.uk for further information.

AQA Baccalaureate

The University recognises the benefits of the AQA Baccalaureate and the opportunities it provides for applicants to develop independent study and research skills.

In making offers, the University will focus on the three A-levels taken within the AQA Baccalaureate. Students need to check the standard A Level requirements for their chosen course.

The units of broader study, enrichment activities and the Extended Project are considered to be valuable elements of the AQA Baccalaureate and we would therefore strongly encourage students to draw upon these experiences within their personal statement.

Foundation year

The University recognises a number of foundation programmes as suitable for entry to this undergraduate programme:

Applicants completing the INTO Manchester International Foundation Programme in partnership with The University of Manchester are required to achieve a minimum of AAB with grades AA in two sciences (preferably Biology and Chemistry), grade B in a 3rd subject (excluding EAP) and an EAP score of B in every component.

Applicants completing the NCUK International Foundation Year are required to achieve a minimum of AAB or 75% overall with grades AA or 75% in two sciences (preferably Biology and Chemistry), grade B or 65% in a 3rd subject (excluding EAP) and an EAP score of B or 65% in every component.

Due to the additional language requirements for this course, the only languages that may be available are Mandarin and Japanese. Please contact us for further information.

Applicants studying other foundation programmes should contact ug.biosciences@manchester.ac.uk to check if their qualification is recognised for entry to this programme and for specific entry requirements.

Pearson BTEC qualifications

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma

We consider the National Extended Diploma in Applied Science with grades DDD for entry when it is taken with one science A-level with grade A.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma

We consider the National Diploma in Applied Science with grades DD for entry when it is taken with two A-levels including grade A in a science subject and a minimum of grade A in any other subject.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma

We consider the National Foundation Diploma in any subject with grade D for entry when it is taken with two science A-levels (minimum AA required).

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate

We consider the National Extended Certificate in any subject with grade D for entry when it is taken with two science A-levels (minimum AA required).

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Certificate

We do not consider the National Certificate for entry to this course.

Legacy BTEC qualifications

The University of Manchester welcomes applications from students who have achieved legacy BTEC qualifications (pre-2016) such as the BTEC Extended Diploma, BTEC Diploma and BTEC Subsidiary Diploma (with grade D or above) and two science A-levels (minimum AA required).

We do not consider the BTEC Certificate for entry to this course.

If you require further clarification about the acceptability of this qualification please contact ug.biosciences@manchester.ac.uk .

Language entry requirements

In addition to the above, due to the additional language requirement for this course, you will also need a minimum of grade B in the relevant language A-level if taking two Core Sciences, or grade A if taking one and a soft science, or an acceptable equivalent language qualification. The only exceptions are Mandarin and Japanese for which we require grade 7 or A in a GCSE foreign language and Chemistry A-level. For further details, please contact ug.biosciences@manchester.ac.uk .

OCR Cambridge Technical qualifications

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Extended Diploma (CTEC)

We consider all the Cambridge Level 3 Technicals (except the Cambridge Level 3 Technical Certificate) with grade D or above for entry when it is taken with two science A-levels (minimum AA required).

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Diploma (CTEC)

We consider all the Cambridge Level 3 Technicals (except the Cambridge Level 3 Technical Certificate) with grade D or above for entry when it is taken with two science A-levels (minimum AA required).

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Foundation Diploma (CTEC)

We consider all the Cambridge Level 3 Technicals (except the Cambridge Level 3 Technical Certificate) with grade D or above for entry when it is taken with two science A-levels (minimum AA required).

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Extended Certificate (CTEC)

We consider all the Cambridge Level 3 Technicals (except the Cambridge Level 3 Technical Certificate) with grade D or above for entry when it is taken with two science A-levels (minimum AA required).

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Certificate (CTEC)

We do not accept the Cambridge Level 3 Technical Certificate (CTEC) for entry to this course.

Legacy CTEC qualifications

The University of Manchester welcomes applications from students who have achieved legacy CTEC qualifications (pre-2016) such as the CTEC Extended Diploma, CTEC Diploma and CTEC Subsidiary Diploma (with grade D or above) and two science A-levels (minimum AA required).

We do not consider the CETC Certificate for entry to this course.

If you require further clarification about the acceptability of this qualification please contact ug.biosciences@manchester.ac.uk .

Language entry requirements

In addition to the above, due to the additional language requirement for this course, you will also need a minimum of grade B in the relevant language A-level if taking two Core Sciences, or grade A if taking one and a soft science, or an acceptable equivalent language qualification.

The only exceptions are Mandarin and Japanese for which we require grade 7 or A in a GCSE foreign language and Chemistry A-level. For further details, please contact ug.biosciences@manchester.ac.uk .

Access to HE Diploma

Each application is considered individually. Applicants should contact the Admissions Office to discuss their particular circumstances.

In general, we require 60 credits overall with 45 graded credits at Level 3, which must include a minimum of 15 credits in Biology and 15 credits in Chemistry. All 45 graded credits must be at Distinction grade.

We may also consider applications from applicants whose course has allowed only 12 credits at Level 3 in Biology, with the remaining three credits at Level 3 with Distinction in Chemistry, Physics or Mathematics.

We also have specific entry requirements for each language. Please contact us for further information.

Cambridge Pre-U

We consider applicants offering Pre-U Principal Subjects, or a mix of Pre-U and A-level subjects, provided a minimum of three distinct subjects overall is taken.

We require D3, D3, D3 to D3, D3, M1 in the Cambridge Pre-U, including two of Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics (the Core Sciences). You must have a D3 in both of the Core Science subjects. Applicants predicted/who have achieved a M1 in their third subject will receive an offer of D3, D3, M1, while those predicted/who have achieved a D3 or higher will be eligible for an offer of D3, D3, D3.

If you have achieved or are predicted D3 in one of Geography, Psychology, Environmental Studies or Physical Education in place of the second Core Science, you will receive an offer of D3, D3, D3.

For French, Spanish, Italian and German, you must achieve minimum M1 in your chosen language if taking two Core Sciences; if taking only one Core Science and one soft science, you must achieve D3. Applicants with an acceptable qualification in a foreign language can also be considered for Mandarin and Japanese, provided they have achieved or will achieve Chemistry at grade D3.

T Level

We consider the following T levels for the Foundation Year: 

  • Level 3 T Level Technical Qualification in Science (Delivered By NCFE) 
  • Level 3 T Level Technical Qualification in Healthcare Science (Delivered By NCFE) 
  • Level 3 T Level Technical Qualification in Health (Delivered By NCFE)

For the Foundation Year, we require Distinction overall in one of these T levels with a minimum of grade A in the core component and Distinction in the occupational specialism.

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

The University recognises the benefits of the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and the opportunities it provides for applicants to develop independent study and research skills. Although the Extended Project will not be included in the conditions of your offer, we strongly encourage you to provide information about the EPQ in your personal statement and at interview. A number of our academic Schools may also choose to take your performance in the EPQ into account should places be available in August for applicants who narrowly miss the entry grades for their chosen course.

Core Maths

The University welcomes and recognises the value of Level 3 core mathematics qualifications (e.g. AQA Certificate in Mathematical Studies). 

Core Mathematics is not a compulsory element of post-16 study and as a result we will not normally include it in the conditions of any offer made to the student. However, if a student chooses to undertake a core mathematics qualification this may be taken into account when we consider their application, particularly for certain non-science courses with a distinct mathematical or statistical element.

We advise students to contact the academic School, who will clarify whether their specific portfolio of qualifications is acceptable for entry on to their chosen course.

Home-schooled applicants

If you are a student who has followed a non-standard educational route, e.g. you have been educated at home; your application will be considered against the standard entry criteria of the course for which you are applying. You will be required to demonstrate that you meet the specified academic entry requirements of the course. We will also require a reference from somebody who knows you well enough, in an official capacity, to write about you and your suitability for higher education. If you are a home schooled student and would like further information or advice please contact the academic School for your chosen course who will be able to help you. 

Non-standard educational routes

Mature students are some of our most well-equipped learners, bringing skills and attributes gained from work, family and other life experiences.  Students come from a whole array of backgrounds, study every kind of course, undertake full-time and part-time learning and are motivated by career intentions as well as personal interest.  There is no such thing as a typical mature student at Manchester.

The application process is the same as for other prospective undergraduates.  If you require further clarification about the acceptability of the qualifications you hold please contact the academic School(s) you plan to apply to.  Further information for mature students can be found here ( http://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/mature-students/ )

English language

All applicants to the University (from the UK and Overseas) are required to show evidence of English Language proficiency. The minimum English Language requirement for this course is either:

  • GCSE/IGCSE English Language grade 4 or C;
  • IELTS 6.5 (with no less than 6.5 in any component);
  • an acceptable equivalent qualification.

Please note that if you hold English as a Second Language IGCSE qualification, we may also require you to provide one of our acceptable equivalent English Language qualifications or achieve a higher grade in your IGCSE than the one stated above. Please contact the academic School for clarification.

The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requires that every student from outside the UK and the EU must show evidence of a minimum level of English Language in order to be granted a UK visa (Student Route Visa) to study at undergraduate or postgraduate level. This level is often referred to as the B2 level.

Additionally, our individual Schools may ask for specific English Language proficiency levels that are necessary for their academic programmes. In most cases these requirements are likely to be higher than the B2 level. Further information about our English Language policy, including a list of some of the English Language qualifications we accept, can be found here.

English language test validity

Some English Language test results are only valid for two years. Your English Language test report must be valid on the start date of the course.

Application and selection

How to apply

Apply through UCAS .

Advice to applicants

We would normally only consider applicants who obtained the relevant qualification within the three years prior to entry.

Applicants who have left education for more than three years would normally be recommended to take an Access course or exceptionally considered for the Foundation Year.

Applicants should contact the Admissions Office to discuss their particular circumstances.

You should not usually apply for more than one of the bioscience courses offered by The University of Manchester. Please contact us for advice if you are planning to do so.

How your application is considered

Applications are considered on the basis of the UCAS form. Some candidates may be interviewed online or by telephone, or asked to complete an alternative admissions statement.

Deferrals

Applications for deferred entry are considered equally to other applications up to the point of confirmation. Deferred entry is granted at the discretion of admissions staff, and is normally granted for one year only and two years at the maximum. Some English Language test results, such as IELTS or TOEFL, are only valid for two years from the test date.

Policy for applicants who resit their qualifications

The University will consider applicants who have re-sat individual modules. If you have re-sat your final examinations we may consider your application in exceptional circumstances. We would generally require a minimum grade of an A for any subject being re-sat. Please contact us to discuss this before you apply.

Re-applications

If you applied in the previous year and your application was not successful you may apply again. Your application will be considered against the standard course entry criteria for that year of entry. In your new application you should demonstrate how your application has improved. We may draw upon all information from your previous applications or any previous registrations at the University as a student when assessing your suitability for your chosen course. If you are applying for a place for the same year of entry through UCAS Extra, you should provide additional evidence of your suitability for the course. If you are applying through clearing you are required to meet the clearing requirements. In both UCAS Extra and clearing the places will be subject to availability.

Course details

Course description

Our BSc Biology with a Modern Language course will enable you to develop your language skills while covering a diverse range of topics within the study of living organisms.

You will be able discover areas of interest early on in your degree and choose what you want to focus on. You can keep your options open and cover a wide variety of areas, or you can identify those that interest and hopefully excite you to focus on particular biological topics.

A highlight of the course is the opportunity to go on a  field course  in the UK and abroad, travelling to locations chosen for the richness of their flora and fauna.

We offer French, German, Italian, Spanish, Japanese and Mandarin for the language component of the course, which includes a year abroad on a research placement.

Our course has Advanced Accreditation from the  Royal Society of Biology , which recognises academic excellence in the biosciences and highlights degrees that educate the research and development leaders and innovators of the future.

Special features

Connect with other languages students

Learn alongside other students taking a variety of language degrees at the University, giving you the opportunity to practise your skills with your fellow students and make new friends.

Study abroad

Placements are available at 20 universities throughout Europe and in China and Japan.

Foundation Year available

You can prepare for the full degree course if you do not have the appropriate qualifications for direct entry by undertaking our foundation course first.

Flexibility to transfer between courses

You can transfer between most of our sciences degree courses at the end of your first year or, in some cases, later. You can only transfer onto this course if you have completed the required language units in Year 1.

Teaching and learning

The course consists of two-thirds of biological sciences learning and one-third modern language learning. You will learn your modern language alongside other students taking a variety of language degrees at the University.

You will benefit from a wide range of teaching and learning methods that suit the content and aims of each course unit.

These range from lectures and tutorials to practicals and research projects, including the  final year project .

Find out more about how you will learn and see a typical Year 1 timetable on our  teaching and learning  page.

Coursework and assessment

Assessment methods vary widely to suit the nature of the course unit and each level of study.

  • Lecture units are usually assessed by written exam (multiple choice or essay-based), which are held at the end of an academic semester in either January or May/June.
  • Field courses are usually assessed via oral and written presentations, group work and/or projects.
  • Practical units are usually assessed by experimental report and/or short written assignment and/or written exam.
  • The proportion of independent study assignments increases during each year of study.

Year 1

Lecture units are usually assessed by e-learning activities during the unit and multiple choice exams at the end of the semester. Year 1 contributes 10% to your overall degree mark.

Year 2

Lecture units are usually assessed by essay-based exam, short note questions, problem sets and other authentic assessments. Year 2 contributes 30% to your overall degree mark.

Placement year

You will write a scientific placement report, which is submitted and assessed when you return to University in your final year. The mark for the report, and the associated viva voce oral examination, contribute approximately 10% towards your overall degree mark.

You will be marked out of 110% for your whole degree.

Year 4

Lecture units are usually assessed by essay-based exam or extended coursework.

You will also take two honours papers and examinations comprising essays and data-handling problems.

A significant part of the year (accounting for one-quarter of the overall degree mark) is the project, which is assessed through a presentation and a written report.

Year 4 contributes 60% to your overall degree mark.

Course unit details

This course is modular. You will study compulsory course units and choose some optional units.

Most science units are assigned 10 credits and you will take 120 credits each year.

For most languages, you will need to acquire 20 credits per year, but this can be higher for certain other languages, such as Japanese and Mandarin, which require 40 credits per year. 

Course content for year 1

You will gain a broad introduction to biological sciences, covering key concepts such as:

  • biodiversity and evolution
  • biochemistry and cell biology
  • genetics and molecular biology.

You can choose to go on a field course in the UK or abroad.

Year 1 also provides an introduction to the essential data handling and laboratory skills required for all biological scientists.

You will spend approximately one-third of your time studying course units related to your chosen language.

Course units for year 1

The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.

TitleCodeCredit ratingMandatory/optional
Academic Tutorials Year 1 BIOL10000 10 Mandatory
Biochemistry BIOL10212 10 Mandatory
Molecular Biology BIOL10221 10 Mandatory
From Molecules to Cells BIOL10232 10 Mandatory
Introduction to Laboratory Science BIOL10401 10 Mandatory
Biodiversity BIOL10511 10 Mandatory
Genes, Evolution and Development BIOL10521 10 Mandatory
Writing and Referencing Skills (online unit) BIOL10741 0 Mandatory
Health & Safety online course BIOL12000 0 Mandatory
History of Biology BIOL10381 10 Optional
Introduction to Experimental Biology - Molecular & Cellular Biology BIOL10412 10 Optional
Microbes, Humankind and the Environment BIOL10532 10 Optional
Field Course in Animal Behaviour and Diversity BIOL10642 10 Optional
Non-Residential Field Course in Ecology & Behaviour BIOL10662 10 Optional
Body Systems BIOL10811 10 Optional
Excitable Cells: the Foundations of Neuroscience BIOL10832 10 Optional
Chemistry for Bioscientists 1 CHEM10021 10 Optional
Chemistry for Bioscientists 2 CHEM10022 10 Optional
Fundamentals of Chemistry CHEM10111 10 Optional
French Language 3 FREN51030 20 Optional
German Language 3 GERM51030 20 Optional
Science & the Modern World HSTM10221 10 Optional
Bodies in History: An introduction to the History of Medicine HSTM10272 10 Optional
Italian Language 3 ITAL51030 20 Optional
Spanish Language 3 SPLA51030 20 Optional
Displaying 10 of 25 course units for year 1

Course content for year 2

You will continue your studies in greater depth and begin to specialise. Enrolment in the University College for Interdisciplinary Learning is encouraged. You will also undertake a Science Communication unit.

In the Research Skills unit, you have the opportunity to carry out techniques that are widely used in current biological science research. Alternatively, you can build on your field work and ecological research skills with a field course.

Course units for year 2

The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.

TitleCodeCredit ratingMandatory/optional
Academic Tutorials Year 2 BIOL20000 10 Mandatory
Organismal Biology EDM BIOL21051 10 Mandatory
Science Communication BIOL21392 10 Mandatory
Science & Society RSM BIOL20302 10 Optional
Biochemistry RSM BIOL20312 10 Optional
Cellular Biochemistry RSM BIOL20322 10 Optional
Genetics RSM BIOL20332 10 Optional
Microbiology RSM BIOL20342 10 Optional
Molecular Biology RSM BIOL20352 10 Optional
Tropical Ecology & Conservation (RSM Field Course) BIOL20552 10 Optional
Urban Biodiversity & Conservation RSM BIOL20872 10 Optional
Clinical Sciences RSM BIOL20902 10 Optional
Anatomy RSM BIOL20912 10 Optional
Pharmacology RSM BIOL20932 10 Optional
Physiology RSM BIOL20942 10 Optional
Immunology RSM BIOL20952 10 Optional
Developmental Biology RSM BIOL20972 10 Optional
Genome Maintenance & Regulation BIOL21101 10 Optional
Proteins BIOL21111 10 Optional
The Dynamic Cell BIOL21121 10 Optional
Cell Metabolism & Metabolic Control BIOL21132 10 Optional
Cell Membrane Structure & Function BIOL21141 10 Optional
`Omic Technologies & Resources BIOL21152 10 Optional
Principles of Developmental Biology BIOL21172 10 Optional
Fundamentals of Bacteriology BIOL21181 10 Optional
Principles of Infectious Disease BIOL21192 10 Optional
Plants for the Future BIOL21202 10 Optional
Animal Diversity BIOL21221 10 Optional
Fundamentals of Evolutionary Biology BIOL21232 10 Optional
Immunology BIOL21242 10 Optional
Parasitology BIOL21252 10 Optional
Body Systems 2 BIOL21272 10 Optional
Animal Physiology BIOL21281 10 Optional
Human Anatomy & Histology BIOL21291 10 Optional
Membrane Excitability: Ion Channels & Transporters in Action BIOL21321 10 Optional
Motor Systems BIOL21332 10 Optional
Sensory Systems BIOL21341 10 Optional
Molecules and Cells in Human Disease BIOL21351 10 Optional
Haematology BIOL21361 10 Optional
Organismal Genetics BIOL21371 10 Optional
Introduction to Virology BIOL21381 10 Optional
Anatomy of the Special Sense Organs BIOL21402 10 Optional
Alpine Biodiversity & Forest Ecology (RSM Field Course) BIOL21422 10 Optional
Animal Behaviour BIOL21432 10 Optional
How to Make a Brain BIOL21451 10 Optional
Introduction to Cancer BIOL21742 10 Optional
Chemistry of Biomolecules CHEM21162 10 Optional
Environmental Microbiology EART21102 10 Optional
Evolution and Palaeobiology EART22101 10 Optional
Ecology and Conservation EART25001 10 Optional
French Language 5 FREN51050 20 Optional
German Language 4 GERM51040 20 Optional
From Cholera to COVID-19: A Global History of Epidemics HSTM20031 10 Optional
The Crisis of Nature: Issues in Environmental History HSTM20092 10 Optional
Information visions: past, present and future HSTM20282 10 Optional
Italian Language 5 ITAL51050 20 Optional
Spanish Language 5 SPLA51050 20 Optional
LEAP BSL Part 1 (A1.1) ULBS50001 10 Optional
LEAP BSL Part 1 Semester 2 (A1.1) ULBS50002 10 Optional
Displaying 10 of 59 course units for year 2

Course content for year 3

Subject to satisfactory academic performance and placement availability, you will spend this year overseas on your modern language placement.

Course units for year 3

The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.

TitleCodeCredit ratingMandatory/optional
Academic Tutorials Year 3 BIOL30000 0 Mandatory
Projects BIOL30030 40 Optional
Life Sciences Enterprise Project BIOL31080 40 Optional
Science Communication Project BIOL31220 40 Optional
HSTM Project BIOL31250 40 Optional
Chemistry of Biological Processes (E) CHEM31812 10 Optional
Chinese Language 6 CHIN51060 20 Optional
Dinosaur Palaeobiology EART34001 10 Optional
Primate Evolution and Human Origins EART36202 10 Optional
French Language 6 FREN51060 20 Optional
Green Planet: Plant Ecology and Global Change GEOG31041 20 Optional
German Language 5 GERM51050 20 Optional
Italian Language 6 ITAL51060 20 Optional
Spanish Language 6 SPLA51060 20 Optional
Displaying 10 of 14 course units for year 3

Course content for year 4

Final year topics reflect the current hotspots of bioscience endeavour and the research interests of our staff, and are constantly being updated. The Biology course allows you the greatest flexibility and choice of lecture units.

You will undertake an independent in-depth  research project  that may involve supervised practical work in a laboratory, or you may choose to work on e-learning, educational, data analysis, bioinformatics or enterprise topics. 

Please note the course units listed below are just a small selection and do not represent the number and breadth of course units available on this course.

What our students say

Find out more about what it's like to study at Manchester on the  Biology, Medicine and Health Student Blog .

Facilities

Learning facilities

Our modern teaching labs are equipped for a range of biological and biomedical techniques. The following are just a few of the techniques you could undertake during your degree:

  • polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
  • DNA sequencing
  • gel electrophoresis
  • spectrophotometry
  • dissection and histology
  • electroencephalography (EEG) and electrocardiography (ECG)
  • immunofluorescence microscopy

Our computing facilities include access to over 200 PCs in dedicated clusters and e-learning tools including online lecture notes, discussion boards, lecture podcasts and quizzes.

You will also have access to the University's other facilities for undergraduate students .

Research facilities

As a final year student, you have the opportunity to undertake a project in the labs of our world-class bioscience researchers.To support our research, we have extensive research facilities equipped with high-quality technology.

Disability support

Practical support and advice for current students and applicants is available from the Disability Advisory and Support Service. Email: dass@manchester.ac.uk

Careers

Career opportunities

Graduates from modern language courses are extremely desirable to employers who require significant relevant work experience.

In the growing field of international bioscience research collaborations, graduates with a good command of a foreign language are at a distinct advantage.

Our graduates go into a range of careers. Many of our graduates secure jobs as researchers working in universities, pharmaceutical and bioscience companies and institutes.

Some of our graduates progress into laboratory-based careers in clinical or technical roles that do not involve research eg NHS Scientist Training Programme. Others use their degree as a platform for postgraduate study eg master's, PhDs and medical degrees.

The transferable skills you will develop will also leave you well-equipped for a wide range of careers outside the lab, such as medical writing, health communication or teaching.

Find out more about how we help our students prepare for the workplace and the careers our graduates go into within and outside the lab.

This degree is not accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science. We have chosen not to have our degree accredited to give you maximum flexibility in your choice of course units. If you are interested in a career as a biomedical/healthcare scientist in the NHS, you can undertake the NHS Scientist Training Programme after you have completed this Biomedical Sciences degree.

Accrediting organisations

This course has  Advanced Accreditation  from the Royal Society of Biology.

Advanced Accreditation recognises academic excellence in the biosciences, highlighting degrees that contain a significant research element and educate the future leaders of research and development.

The criteria require evidence that graduates meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including gaining substantial research experience.

In recognition of this, a graduate of an advanced accredited course can apply for membership of the Royal Society of Biology at  Member (MRSB)  level after just two years of practice, rather than the usual three.

These graduates can attain the qualifications of Chartered Biologist or Chartered Scientist one year sooner than graduates from other courses.