Newcastle University

Biology (Cellular and Molecular Biology) BSc Honours
UCAS Code: C1C7 (3 or 4 Years)

• Course Overview
• Modules
• Entry Requirements
• Careers
• Finance

 This degree covers plants, animals and micro-organisms, with a strong focus on biomolecules, organelles and cells, and how they all contribute to the function of organisms as a whole through specialist topics such as:

• molecular biology and genomics
• biotechnology
• biochemistry
• metabolism
• immunology
• reproduction and development
• bioremediation
• cell biology

Training in practical techniques for use in both the laboratory and the field is a key part of the degree.

We also place particular emphasis on graduate skills - such as verbal and written communication, teamwork, time management, and critical thinking - which are valued by a wide range of employers.

Teaching and assessment

Research-informed teaching plays an important role at Newcastle. It shapes the content of our undergraduate degrees and makes sure that you have the chance to cover the most up-to-date discoveries in your subject.

Our teaching is strongly informed by the School of Biology's research. You also have the chance to conduct your own research in Stage 3 through one of our project modules.

On average, you will spend around a third of your time in contact with teaching staff for lectures, laboratory and field practical classes, computer sessions, and in-tutorial activities tied closely to key skills development. You may well find yourself spending as much time in the laboratory as the lecture theatre, or be off campus for half-day field trips. Further information can be found on our undergraduate web pages about the approach to teaching and learning at Newcastle University.

Assessment is by examination and in-course assessment such as essays, presentations and laboratory reports. Teaching and assessment methods may vary from module to module, more information can be found in our individual module listings.

Flexible degree structure

The first year is shared allowing for easy transfer before the second year should your interests change. You can transfer to:

• Biology (C100)
• Ecology and Environmental Biology (C180)
• Zoology (C300)

This shared first year provides you with a thorough knowledge of the fundamentals of biology, through topics such as the diversity of form and function in animals, plants and micro-organisms.

You also study modules in ecology, evolution, biochemistry, cell biology and genetics, and select a topic in agriculture, marine biology or psychology.

Fieldwork

All of our Biology and Zoology degrees are designed to ensure that you gain practical experience. You have the opportunity to take part in a number of field courses including:

• a species identification field course in second year, providing skills that are sought after in the environmental sector
• a week-long residential field course in third year on ecology and animal behaviour
• day excursions that take advantage of our unique geographic location close to a variety of natural habitats, from Northumberland National Park to the stunning local coastline

Work placement

You may spend a year between Stages 2 and 3 on work placement in a commercial company (eg Avecia, GlaxoSmithKline) or a government laboratory (eg NHS). This extends your degree to four years. This can substantially improve your employability through real workplace experience.

You work with staff in the School of Biology to arrange your own placement, enhancing your networking and negotiating skills.

Study abroad

UK and EU students have the opportunity to broaden their academic experience by taking part in a study abroad exchange.

Facilities

You will benefit from access to purpose-built teaching laboratories as well as unique facilities on campus and in the surrounding area to support your practical teaching. These include:

• the University’s Botanical Gardens, which house an extensive collection of desert and rainforest plants, glasshouses simulating winter and summer temperatures and plants of commercial and medicinal interest
• an ecological field station which has a glasshouse complex, a fumigation system for studying the effects of air pollution on plants and a dedicated teaching laboratory
• two University farms in Northumberland, which are used as demonstration facilities for students
• the University-led Great North Museum, adjacent to campus, which houses many interesting and important biological collections

Take a virtual tour of our facilities on the School of Biology's website.

School of Biology

As a student in the School of Biology, you will be based in the Ridley Building. Here, you will join a vibrant community of staff and students.  

Our student-led society, BioSoc, will also make sure there are plenty of opportunities for you to get to know people on your course through a huge variety of academic and social events.