Course Info
With science and its challenges making today’s global headlines, studying this research-led modular degree will help you develop the skills you’ll need to pursue a career in the science sector and beyond. The course offers flexibility so that you can follow specialised routes within Biological Sciences by offering module combinations to address your specific areas of interest.
The curriculum links academic theory with practical experience, with themed routes covering Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedical Science, Cell Biology, Plant Science, Genetics, and Ecology and Environmental Science.
The first year covers fundamental aspects of biology including evolution, biochemistry, molecular and cell biology, genetics, physiology, an overview of the diversity of organisms and the basics of scientific research.
Year 2 concentrates on providing the skills required for research-led learning.
The final year of the degree places the strongest emphasis on research, with taught content directly linked to research being carried out in the Department. Three core modules, a workshop/field course, a literature review and a research module, are combined with three modules linked to your interests and career aspirations.
As well as the three-year course, you can consider a work placement or a year abroad
Entry requirements
A level offer – AAA including Biology or Chemistry or Human Biology plus another science subject.
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma/OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma – DDD and A level requirements as above.
IB Diploma score – 37 with 666 in higher level subjects including Biology or Chemistry plus another higher level science subject.
In addition to satisfying the University’s general entry requirements, please note:
We welcome applications from those with other qualifications equivalent to our standard entry requirements and from mature students with non-standard qualifications or who may have had a break in their study. Please contact our Admissions Selectors.
Psychology, Maths and Geography are all considered sciences for the purposes of admissions. Although PE is accepted as a third A level, it is not a science for the purpose of admissions.
There is no advantage in applying for both MBiol and BSc degrees.
If you do not satisfy our general entry requirements, the Foundation Programme offers multidisciplinary degrees to prepare you for a range of specified degree courses.
If you are an international student who does not meet the requirements for direct entry to this degree, you may be eligible to take an International Foundation Year pathway programme at the Durham University International Study Centre.
We are pleased to consider applications for deferred entry.
Science A levels
Applicants taking Science A levels that include a practical component will be required to take and pass this as a condition of entry. This applies only to applicants sitting A levels with an English examination board.