Biology
BSc Honours
- UCAS code: C100
- Full time
- 3 years
- Next start date: September 2021
Our newly developed, flexible, Biology BSc Honours degree gives you the freedom to study a broad spectrum of the natural world around us.
Fees (per year)
- Home: £9250
- International: £23400
Entry requirements
- A Level: AAB-BBB
- IB: 32-34 points
UCAS Institution name and code:
- NEWC / N21
Course overview
With a host of interesting environments on your doorstep, and access to world-leading research, this Biology degree will equip you with a wide-ranging knowledge of the subject.
You'll develop a comprehensive understanding of all forms of life, from cells and molecules to organisms and ecosystems.
You'll have the opportunity to put your skills into action through:
- lab-based classes
- day excursions
- residential field courses
BSc or MBiol?
Some of our degrees are offered at two levels:
- three-year Bachelor of Science (BSc)
- four-year Master of Biology (MBiol)
Our MBiol degrees involve an additional year of advanced study at master’s level, during which you will gain significant research experience to increase your employability.
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COVID-19
Please rest assured we make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities described. However, it may be necessary to make changes due to significant disruption, for example in response to COVID-19.
See our terms and conditions for more information
View our Frequently Asked Questions
Quality and ranking
Biology at Newcastle ranks in the top 150 in the world in the Life Sciences category, Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2020.
Teaching excellence
TEF GoldA ringing endorsement of Newcastle University’s long tradition of excellence in teaching.

Modules and learning
Modules
The information below is intended to provide an example of what you will study.
Most degrees are divided into stages. Each stage lasts for one academic year, and you'll complete modules totalling 120 credits by the end of each stage.
Our teaching is informed by research. Course content may change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback.
Optional module availability
Student demand for optional modules may affect availability.
Full details of the modules on offer will be published through the Programme Regulations and Specifications ahead of each academic year. This usually happens in May.
To find out more please see our terms and conditions.
The first year of this degree is shared with other Biology-related degrees in the School. You can transfer to one of our other Biology and Zoology degrees before the second year should your interests change (subject to achieving the appropriate grades).
You'll develop a strong foundation in the subject and get stuck into practical work straight away. Modules include: Diversity of Life, Genetics and Evolution, Cells and Biomolecules, Ecology and Conservation and Study Skills.
Modules
Compulsory Modules | Credits |
---|---|
Genetics and Evolution | 20 |
Diversity of Life: Form and Function | 20 |
Ecology and Conservation | 20 |
Cells and Biomolecules | 20 |
Academic and Professional Skills for the Biosciences | 20 |
In Stage 2, you'll continue to build upon your skills, delving deeper into the field. Modules include Field Identification Skills, Animal Function, Plant Biology, Microbiology, Biodiversity, Ecology and Conservation and Biotechnology. You'll also have the option to embark on a residential field course or an intensive practical lab course.
Modules
Compulsory Modules | Credits |
---|---|
Microbiology | 10 |
Experimental Design and Statistics | 10 |
Animal Function (Physiology and Development) | 20 |
Plant Biology | 20 |
You'll work independently on an extensive project with a choice between a Biological Literature Review, a Biological Research Project and a Biological Information Project.
You will have a choice of specialist topics such as: molecular biology, genomics and biotechnology; biological computer modelling; biodiversity and conservation.
Many of these are linked to our research expertise.
Modules
Compulsory Modules | Credits |
---|---|
Physiological Zoology | 20 |
Global challenges in plant science research | 20 |
Teaching and assessment
Teaching methods
You'll be taught via a combination of methods, including lectures and interactive online classes.
Our field and lab-based modules provide you with an exceptional basis to build practical experiences. These enhance the scientific skills expected of a biology graduate.
Assessment methods
You'll be assessed through a combination of:
-
Assessments
-
Assignments – written or fieldwork
-
Coursework
-
Dissertation or research project
-
Essays
-
Examinations – practical or online
-
Group work
-
Practical sessions
-
Presentations
-
Projects
-
Reports
Skills and experience
Research skills
Your learning will be strongly informed by the School's research. You'll be taught by experts at the forefront of their respective fields in:
- microbial biotechnology
- plant biology
- animal physiology and behaviour
- biodiversity and conservation
- biological computer modelling
Hands-on experience
This is a highly practical course. You'll spend time in the lab or off campus on field trips.
Field trip destinations include:
- the Northumbrian countryside
- our marine field station
- our University farm
Lab-based modules introduce you to key research techniques. Modules include:
- bioprospecting
- cellular biochemistry
- molecular evolution and systematics
Several modules are focused on fieldwork, such as Field Identification Skills and Mammal Surveying Skills.
Business skills
You'll have the opportunity to complete a work placement between stages 2 and 3, as well as taking part in University-wide expeditions on an extra-curricular basis.
You will also have the chance to take part in the International Genetically Engineered Machine Competition, or iGEM for short. iGEM is a multidisciplinary, student-led research competition that aims to use Synthetic Biology to help solve global issues. iGEM teams work inside and outside the lab. They create sophisticated projects that strive to solve real-world problems with a global impact.
iGEM is a challenging experience. It provides a unique hands-on experience of the synthetic biology process. We have had many successful years with our students attending this worldwide jamobree.
Opportunities
Study abroad
Experience life in another country by choosing to study abroad as part of your degree. You’ll be encouraged to embrace fun and challenging experiences, make connections with new communities and graduate as a globally aware professional, ready for your future.
You can choose to spend up to a year studying at a partner institution overseas.
If you choose to study abroad, it will extend your degree by a year.
Find out more about study abroad
Work placement
Get career ready with a work placement and leave as a confident professional in your field. You can apply to spend 9 to 12 months working in any organisation in the world, and receive University support from our dedicated team to secure your dream placement. Work placements take place between stages 2 and 3.
You'll gain first-hand experience of working in the sector, putting your learning into practice and developing your professional expertise.
If you choose to take a work placement, it will extend your degree by a year. Placements are subject to availability.
Facilities and environment
Facilities
As a Biology and Zoology student, you'll be based in the School of Natural and Environmental Sciences at our city-centre campus.
During your studies, you'll have access to two commercial farms near Newcastle. These are used as demonstration facilities as well as a field station with glasshouse and dedicated teaching facilities.
You'll have the opportunity to access purpose-built laboratories. You can also visit the Great North Museum, where there's a range of important biological collections. We also have our controlled-environment aquaria situated in the Ridley 2 Building.
Support
As a new student, you'll receive a tablet, so you can download online learning resources, helping to make our campus more sustainable.
You'll have the support of an academic member of staff as a personal tutor throughout your degree to help with academic and personal issues.
Your future
Recent graduates have taken roles such as:
- researcher
- environmental monitoring officer
- science explainer at Newcastle's Centre for Life
- science writer, within organisations such as RSPB, WWT, and Natural England
Many students also go on to further education, pursuing master's degrees, PHDs, postgraduate teaching qualifications, and medicine and law courses.
Having developed a broad range of transferable skills, you'll also have career prospects in industries as diverse as banking and retail management, media production, and adventure tourism.
Industry links
The faculty has built strong links with leading organisations, including:
- National Trust
- Natural History Society of Northumbria
- WWT
- National Parks Authority
- GENEIUS
These links will provide opportunities to secure work placements, internships, and volunteer roles, as well as building up an invaluable network of contacts in the sector.
Enterprising students
Careers support
Our Enterprise Challenge gives students the opportunity to work with industry on a project that tackles real-world issues. Watch the above video to find out more.
Our award-winning Careers Service is one of the largest and best in the country, and we have strong links with employers. We provide an extensive range of opportunities to all students through our ncl+ initiative.
Visit our Careers Service website
Recognition of professional qualifications outside of the UK
From 1 January 2021 there is an update to the way professional qualifications are recognised by countries outside of the UK.
Entry requirements
All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2021 entry.
A Level
AAB-BBB
International Baccalaureate
32-34 points
Other UK qualifications (and PARTNERS)
Qualifications from outside the UK
English Language requirements
PARTNERS
Through our PARTNERS programme, you could receive an offer up to three grades lower than the typical requirements, and get support throughout the application process. To apply through PARTNERS, you must be based in the UK and meet our eligibility criteria.
Entrance courses (INTO)
International Pathway Courses are specialist programmes designed for international students who want to study in the UK. We provide a range of study options for international students in partnership with INTO.
Find out more about International Pathway Courses
Admissions policy
This policy applies to all undergraduate and postgraduate admissions at Newcastle University, including Newcastle University London. It is intended to provide information about our admissions policies and procedures to applicants and potential applicants, to their advisors and family members, and to staff of the University.
Tuition fees and scholarships
Tuition fees for 2021 entry (per year)
Home Fee Students
£9250
International Fee Students
£23400
The maximum fee that we are permitted to charge for home fee-paying students is set by the UK government.
As a general principle, you should expect the tuition fee to increase in each subsequent academic year of your course, subject to government regulations on fee increases and in line with inflation.
You will be charged tuition fees for each year of your degree programme (unless you are on a shorter exchange programme).
The tuition fee amount you will pay may increase slightly year on year as a result of inflation.
For courses commencing from September 2021 and beyond, EU, other EEA and Swiss nationals will no longer be eligible for home fees or Student Finance England support.
If you are from the EU you will pay international tuition fees.
Year abroad and additional costs
For programmes where you can spend a year on a work placement or studying abroad, you will receive a significant fee reduction for that year.
Some of our degrees involve additional costs which are not covered by your tuition fees.
Find out more about:
Scholarships
Find out more about:
Open days and events
The situation with Covid-19 means that we're unable to hold Open Days on campus. However, you don’t have to visit in person to experience Newcastle.
From the comfort of your sofa you'll be able to:
• explore our beautiful campus
• find out about our vibrant city
• discover what students think about studying at Newcastle
You'll also have the opportunity to speak to academic staff and find out more about the subjects you're interested in.
We regularly travel overseas to meet with students interested in studying at Newcastle University. Visit our events calendar to find out when we're visiting your region.
How to apply
Apply through UCAS
To apply for undergraduate study at Newcastle University, you must use the online application system managed by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). All UK schools and colleges, and a small number of EU and international establishments, are registered with UCAS. You will need:
- the UCAS name and institution codes for Newcastle University (NEWC/N21)
- the UCAS code for the course you want to apply for
- the UCAS 'buzzword' for your school or college
If you are applying independently, or are applying from a school or college which is not registered to manage applications, you will still use the Apply system. You will not need a buzzword.
Apply through UCASApply through an agent
International students often apply to us through an agent. Have a look at our recommended agents and get in touch with them.
Get in touch
By Phone
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Online
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