BSc (Hons)

Biological Sciences

Explore the world of biological sciences, from molecular pathways to entire ecosystems, and develop the skills to tackle global challenges such as environmental degradation, emerging disease and climate change through the lens of biological sustainability.

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Exploring how biological science can help create a future where people and nature thrive together.
Exploring how biological science can help create a future where people and nature thrive together.

UCAS Code

C102

Start Date

September 2027

Location

Pontypridd

Campus Code

A

UCAS Points

96

UCAS Code

C103

Start Date

September 2027

Location

Pontypridd

Campus Code

A

UCAS Points

96

Course overview

Study biological sciences through the lens of environmental and planetary health, exploring how living systems interact and respond to a changing world.

Develop your practical skills across genomic sequencing, bioinformatics and field-based ecological monitoring, while learning to tackle challenges such as biodiversity loss, land use change and emerging diseases.

With a focus on sustainability, innovation and ethical thinking, you’ll learn how biological knowledge is vital can contribute to the green economy. Build confidence and grow your professional skills so you will graduate career ready for your future within biological science.

There are two possible specialist study pathways with our Biological Sciences degree which can be studied in years two and three. Specialist pathway 1 is Biological Sciences (Molecular bioscience and sustainability) and studies Molecular Biosciences in your second year, and Molecular biomedicine and public health in your third. Specialist pathway 2 is Biological Sciences (Ecology and sustainability) and studies Applied Tropical Ecology or Ecological Consultancy in year two, and Marine and Freshwater Ecology in year three.  

Accredited by

Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology.


Why study this course?

Specialist facilities

Develop your skills using specialist laboratories, equipment and learning spaces.

Industry experience

Put your knowledge into practice with opportunities to gain valuable workplace experience with collaborating industry partners building valuable experience.

Get hands-on

Build your practical skills through laboratory, field and research-based learning.

Personal development

Plan and carry out your own research project, developing skills for further study or employment.

Award winning teaching staff

Learn from the Wales STEM Team of the Year (Applied Sciences Team 2026) and benefit from their expertise and passion for biological sciences.

What you'll study

Build your foundation in biological sciences, from cells, genetics and human biology to ecology, evolution and biodiversity.

Through laboratory and fieldwork, you’ll develop practical skills and learn how biological systems interact at different scales.

Discover how organisms interact with each other and their environment, from populations and communities to whole ecosystems. Gain practical experience in ecological surveying, species identification and environmental data analysis through laboratory and fieldwork.

Gain a foundation in genetics, cell biology and microbiology, covering DNA, cell structure, specialised cells and bacteria. Hands-on laboratory sessions give you experience working with DNA, microscopes, organelles and bacteria while building essential laboratory skills.

Learn how the human body is organised, from cells and tissues to organs and organ systems, and how structure relates to function. You’ll consider human development throughout life and the relationship between anatomy, physiology, health and disease through interactive learning.

Uncover the evolutionary processes that have shaped the diversity of life on Earth. Investigate biodiversity, evolutionary relationships and species interactions, drawing on evidence from ecology, genetics, palaeontology and phylogenetics to understand patterns in the natural world.

Deepen your understanding of biological sciences while building practical and professional skills.

You’ll study core topics including functional zoology and biological sustainability, with optional module allowing you to explore areas such as conservation, ecology, molecular bioscience, data, enterprise or an industry placement.  
 
In your second year you will have the opportunity to take a specialist study pathway. Specialist pathway 1 is Biological Sciences (Molecular bioscience and sustainability) and to take this pathway you will need to choose Molecular Biosciences in your second year of study. Specialist pathway 2 is Biological Sciences (Ecology and sustainability) and to take this pathway you will need to choose Applied Tropical Ecology or Ecological Consultancy in year two.  

Examine how animal form and function have evolved in response to different environments. Through dissections and comparative morphology practicals, investigate anatomical and physiological adaptations across major living and extinct groups of animals, from aquatic respiration to terrestrial movement.

Understand how biological processes support planetary health and explore the pressures threatening natural systems. Apply biological and ecological knowledge to real-world sustainability issues, investigating approaches such as bioremediation, ecological restoration and sustainable environmental management.

Take your learning into tropical marine and forest environments through a residential field course. Gain hands-on experience in ecological surveying, species identification, habitat assessment and data analysis while exploring coral reefs, seagrass meadows, mangroves and tropical forests.

If you would like to take Pathway two, Biological Sciences (Ecology and sustainability), then please choose this module or Ecological Consultancy for your second year, and Marine and Freshwater Ecology in your third year. 

Step into the world of ecological consultancy and learn how environmental assessments inform planning and sustainable development. Gain practical experience in ecological surveying, GIS, environmental data analysis and professional reporting, applying legislation and industry guidance to realistic consultancy scenarios.

If you would like to take Pathway two, Biological Sciences (Ecology and sustainability), then please choose this module or Applied Tropical Conservation for your second year, and Marine and Freshwater Ecology in your third year. 

Delve into biological processes at the genetic and molecular level, exploring how they influence human, animal and environmental health. Gain practical experience in molecular biology techniques and computational analysis of biological sequence data, applying your knowledge to real-world case studies.

If you would like to take Pathway one, Biological Sciences (Molecular bioscience and sustainability), then please choose this module for your second year, and Molecular biomedicine and public health in your third year. 

Explore the principles and applications of AI, developing practical skills through hands-on work and interdisciplinary problem-solving. Learn to apply AI responsibly to real-world scientific, environmental and technological challenges.

Build the commercial and enterprise skills needed to apply your STEM knowledge in the workplace. Learn about business planning, budgeting and financial information while working collaboratively to develop and pitch an idea, strengthening your professional communication, commercial awareness and confidence. 

Turn real-world data into meaningful insights, developing the skills to collect, analyse and interpret information using statistical and computational tools. Learn to visualise data and communicate your findings clearly, applying analytical techniques to scientific, technological and sustainability-focused problems.

Understand how effective health and safety management protects people and supports responsible workplaces across STEM. Explore legislation, risk management, accident investigation and safety culture, applying your knowledge to real-world scenarios while developing practical and professional skills.

Gain practical project management skills, from defining and planning projects to managing risk, quality, resources and stakeholders. Develop your ability to communicate, collaborate and lead effectively, applying structured approaches to projects in STEM and other professional environments.

Put your knowledge into practice with a year-long industry placement, gaining valuable experience in a professional working environment. Develop your communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills while applying your academic learning to real workplace situations, supported by academic supervision throughout your placement.

Take your knowledge further by exploring biotechnology for sustainable solution and completing an independent research project.

You’ll apply your skills to real-world biological issues, with optional modules in human health or marine and freshwater ecology allowing you to specialise in areas that interest you.

If you have decided to take specialist pathway one (Biological Sciences (Molecular bioscience and sustainability)) you will need to choose Molecular Biomedicine and Public Health as your optional module this year. If you are studying pathway two (Biological Sciences (Ecology and sustainability)) you will need to choose Marine and Freshwater Ecology. 

Examine the biological, social and environmental factors shaping human health and health inequalities. Investigate contemporary issues such as infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance and non-communicable diseases, while exploring how advances in diagnostics, therapeutics and public health can improve health outcomes.

If you would like to take Pathway one, Biological Sciences (Molecular bioscience and sustainability), then please choose this module for your third year, and Molecular Biosciences in your second year. 

Discover how biotechnology can help create a more sustainable future, from carbon sequestration and green fuels to water security and soil restoration, and food systems. Apply molecular biology, ecology and resource management to explore innovative solutions to global environmental challenges and support a regenerative approach. 

Dive into the ecology of marine and freshwater environments, examining aquatic biodiversity, ecological processes and the adaptations that allow organisms to survive in challenging conditions. Investigate the impacts of human activity and explore approaches to aquatic ecosystem management through practical activities and computer simulations.

If you would like to take Pathway two, Biological Sciences (Ecology and sustainability), then please choose this module for your third year, and Applied Tropical Conservation or Ecological Consultancy for your second year, and Marine and Freshwater Ecology in your third year. 

Take ownership of your own research project, investigating an open or unsolved problem related to your degree subject. Apply the knowledge and research methods you’ve developed throughout your studies to plan and carry out an original investigation, analyse findings and communicate your work effectively.  

We regularly review our courses to keep pace with changing skills and employer needs. If a review leads to significant changes, we’ll contact you to explain what’s changing for the coming year.

Teaching and assessment

Learn from Wales STEM Team of the Year (Applied Sciences 2026) through a mix of practical, immersive and research-informed experiences designed to prepare you for your future career in biosciences. You’ll explore biological systems at different scales, from molecular and genomic processes to ecosystems, while developing the professional and transferable skills needed to tackle environmental, ecological and health challenges all delivered by our diverse team of research-active academics and specialist technicians who bring real-word insights to the classroom.

You’ll learn through laboratory investigations, fieldwork, case studies and collaborative projects, applying what you learn to real-world biological challenges facing biological sustainability. Specialist facilities and diverse field sites give you opportunities to develop practical skills, while guest speakers, industry engagement, placements and volunteering can help connect your learning to professional practice.

You’ll be assessed through written and hands on practical assessments, collaborative group work including discussions, presentations and projects, data analysis, and case studies. Assessments are designed to develop your ability to investigate biological problems, evaluate and communicate evidence, think critically and apply your knowledge to real-world situations. As you progress through the course, you’ll take greater responsibility for independent investigation, analysis and finding solutions to complex biological challenges.

Second year students will have the option for a year-long industry placement where you will apply your academic knowledge and skills in a professional work setting. Get a real understanding of real word scenarios, provide meaning and context to theory and gain valuable experience to get yourself career and industry ready.

Our suite of state-of-the-art microbiology laboratories are equipped with industry-standard instrumentation, including high-resolution microscopy, thermal cyclers for PCR. Beyond the laboratory, you will utilise modern lecture theatres and collaborative tutorial seminars designed for peer-to-peer discussion and group projects. We also utilise a variety of field sites both on campus, locally, nationally and internationally, which allow you to gain practical experience across a variety of different ecosystems. 

Course Leader

Natalie Lubbock

Natalie is the Course Leader for Biological Sciences and Programme Leader for Applied Sciences, as well as a lecturer in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation. With over 10 years of teaching experience and 12 years as a field researcher, she brings real-world expertise to her teaching.

Specialising in marine and freshwater ecology, Natalie is passionate about sustainability and the links between environmental and human health. Her research has taken her to tropical ecosystems across Southeast Asia and Central America, focusing on coral reef ecology and conservation, including running marine science research bases in Honduras.

Through her research and industry connections, including SEWRT and OPWAL, Natalie helps connect learning with real-world conservation and research opportunities. 

Career prospects

A degree in Biological Sciences can open doors to careers across environmental, ecological, healthcare, research and biotechnology sectors. You’ll graduate with practical, analytical and professional skills ready to take on some of society's most pressing challenges.

Your future career

Prepare for a career in biology through practical, industry-focused learning and links with organisations including Southeast Wales Rivers Trust and RePlanet. Develop professional skills through authentic assessments, industry networking and the option of a year-long work placement. Potential career paths include:  

Research
Conservation
Sustainable technology
Government
Consultancy
Healthcare

Salary expectations

A Biology degree can open opportunities across biology as well as the wider scientific sector. Science careers offer strong earning potential:

Median wage
UK: £44.4k per annum
Wales: £42.3k per annum

 

Total jobs in 2025
UK: 2.45m
Wales: 109,520


Source: Lightcast Labour Market Data 2026

Industry partners

We have partnerships with Southeast Wales Rivers Trust and RePlanet giving you lots of opportunities to relate your studies to real world challenges and get an insight for what your future career could look like.

Entry Requirements

Contextual offers

We may make you a lower offer based on a range of factors, including your background (where you live and the school or college that you attended, for example), your experiences and individual circumstances (as a care leaver, for example). This is referred to as a contextual offer, and we receive data from UCAS to support us in making these decisions.

USW prides itself on its student experience and we support our students to achieve their goals and become a successful graduate. This approach helps us to support students who have the potential to succeed and who may have faced barriers that make it more difficult to access university.

How to applyContextual admissions policyAsk us a question

96 UCAS points or above

Typical qualification requirements

A Level:
CCC to include Biology but to exclude General Studies.

Science Requirement:
Applicants taking Science A levels in England will need to pass the practical element alongside achieving the requested grade(s).

Welsh BACC:
Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales Grade C and CC at A Level to include Biology but to exclude General Studies.

BTEC:
BTEC Extended Diploma Merit Merit Merit in a relevant subject which must include Biology modules.

Access to HE:
Pass an Access to HE Diploma in Science and obtain a minimum of 96 UCAS tariff points.

T Level:
P.

Additional requirements include:
The University normally requires a minimum 5 GCSEs including Mathematics and English at Grade C/Grade 4 or above, or their equivalent but consideration is given to individual circumstances

International applications welcomed:

We welcome international applications with equivalent qualifications of our entry requirements. For more details related to your country of residence, please view our dedicated country pages.

International studentsPre-Sessional English

English language requirements

International applicants will need to have achieved an overall of IELTS 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component/TOEFL 4 overall and a minimum of 4 in each component or equivalent.

Equivalents can be located on our English Language pages.

If you have previously studied through the medium of English, IELTS might not be required, please visit our country specific page for further details. If your country is not featured, please contact us.

If you do not meet the English entry criteria, please visit our Pre-Sessional course pages.

Fees and Funding

Studying at university is one of the most significant investments you'll ever make. Whilst you’re studying, you’ll have two main financial obligations – tuition fees and living costs. There’s lots of financial help available from the University of South Wales and external funding sources, that may provide loans (which have to be paid back) and grants, scholarships and bursaries (that don't).

*Full-time fees are per year. Part-time fees are per 20 credits. Once enrolled, the fee is anticipated to remain at the same rate throughout the duration of your study on this course except as described below.

Please be aware that we may increase the maximum fee for home students on full-time undergraduate courses only where the Welsh Government increases the permitted level of inflation of fees. Fees for all students (including part-time, postgraduate and international students) may be amended in accordance with our applicable Fees and Debt Management Policy.  We will ensure that students are given clear, intelligible, unambiguous and timely information about our courses and costs in good time, ahead of the next academic year.

As a student of USW, you’ll have access to lots of free resources to support your study and learning, such as textbooks, publications, online journals, laptops, and plenty of remote-access resources. Whilst in most cases these resources are more than sufficient in supporting you with completing your course, additional costs, both obligatory and optional, may be required or requested for the likes of travel, memberships, experience days, stationery, printing, or equipment.

Airfare for field course
Airfare for residential field course associated with the optional module “Applied Tropical Conservation”. This cost is an estimate, as it varies by destination and booking date
Cost: £1300

Residential field course
International, residential field course associated with the optional module “Applied Tropical Conservation”.
Cost: £1500

Padi dive training
Diver training course associated with the optional module “Applied Tropical Conservation”.
Cost: £350 

Placement*
Students who successfully secure a placement in industry to complete their project would be expected to pay their own travel costs to and from the venue during the period of placement. The cost of this will of course vary and some students have also paid for accommodation close to their place of work for the duration of their placement.
Cost: Variable

Other
Please note that students who successfully secure a placement in industry or abroad to complete their projects would be expected to pay their own travelling costs to and from the venue during the period of placement. The cost of this will of course vary and some students have also paid for accommodation close to their place of work for the duration of their placement.
Cost: Variable

Studying at university is one of the most significant investments you'll ever make. Whilst you’re studying, you’ll have two main financial obligations – tuition fees and living costs. There’s lots of financial help available from the University of South Wales and external funding sources, that may provide loans (which have to be paid back) and grants, scholarships and bursaries (that don't).

*Full-time fees are per year. Part-time fees are per 20 credits. Once enrolled, the fee is anticipated to remain at the same rate throughout the duration of your study on this course except as described below.

Please be aware that we may increase the maximum fee for home students on full-time undergraduate courses only where the Welsh Government increases the permitted level of inflation of fees. Fees for all students (including part-time, postgraduate and international students) may be amended in accordance with our applicable Fees and Debt Management Policy.  We will ensure that students are given clear, intelligible, unambiguous and timely information about our courses and costs in good time, ahead of the next academic year.

As a student of USW, you’ll have access to lots of free resources to support your study and learning, such as textbooks, publications, online journals, laptops, and plenty of remote-access resources. Whilst in most cases these resources are more than sufficient in supporting you with completing your course, additional costs, both obligatory and optional, may be required or requested for the likes of travel, memberships, experience days, stationery, printing, or equipment.

Airfare for field course
Airfare for residential field course associated with the optional module “Applied Tropical Conservation”. This cost is an estimate, as it varies by destination and booking date
Cost: £1300

Residential field course
International, residential field course associated with the optional module “Applied Tropical Conservation”.
Cost: £1500

Padi dive training
Diver training course associated with the optional module “Applied Tropical Conservation”.
Cost: £350 

Placement*
Students who successfully secure a placement in industry to complete their project would be expected to pay their own travel costs to and from the venue during the period of placement. The cost of this will of course vary and some students have also paid for accommodation close to their place of work for the duration of their placement.
Cost: Variable

Other
Please note that students who successfully secure a placement in industry or abroad to complete their projects would be expected to pay their own travelling costs to and from the venue during the period of placement. The cost of this will of course vary and some students have also paid for accommodation close to their place of work for the duration of their placement.
Cost: Variable

What sets us apart?

#1

Top university in Wales and 24th out of 123 universities in the UK.

Guardian University Guide 2027

Three USW students walking outside of Cardiff Campus - Atrium

10 subjects ranked in the Guardian University Guide 2027 Top 10, including two at #1.

Three students studying in a pod in the library at Cardiff campus

Top in Wales for new business startups for the 6th consecutive year, and 7th in the UK. (HEBCIS) 

Explore our facilities

Get hands-on in our specialist facilities.

Scientific facilities

Grow the skills you’ll need to succeed using the same tools and equipment used by working scientists. Learn by getting hands on in our impressive laboratories, from looking at cells under a microscope and analysing chemical reactions to examining realistic evidence to solve mock crimes.

Learn more

How to apply

All applications for full-time undergraduate courses or foundation degrees should be made via UCAS. Take the next step: Apply through UCAS

You can apply to us directly for all part-time undergraduate courses, if you’re seeking advanced entry or you’re an international student. To apply directly, please choose the application form below for your preferred start date and mode of study (full-time or part-time).

  • Biological Sciences

    • Full-time, 3 years

    • September

    • Pontypridd

    Apply direct
  • Biological Sciences

    • Sandwich, 4 years

    • September

    • Pontypridd

    Apply direct

If you already have a relevant qualification or experience related to the course you're applying for, you may be eligible to start at a later stage of the course. For example, students from partner colleges can ‘top up’ their qualifications to a degree by joining us in Year Two or Year Three of a course. This process is known as ‘advanced entry’, you can apply directly to the University for 'advanced entry' using the application forms provided above.

Applicants accepted through advanced entry may study a different combination of modules to those advertised, as they will be joining a course already in progress. You will be contacted and advised about these modules once your application has been processed and an offer made.

International applicants can apply to us directly. If the University has an in-country team in your region, your application will be assigned to them for assistance.

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