Put your future as a professional biologist on a firm footing. Starting your studies with a foundation year is ideal if you are thinking about a change of career or exploring your interest in science.
Choose the foundation year route to build the skills, confidence and knowledge you need for success: you can gain your full honours degree in four years
Facilities include an Aquatic Research Facility, glasshouse, insectary, and specialist laboratories - take a virtual tour
Immerse yourself in a subject which is constantly evolving to address important 21st-century challenges
Gain a thorough grounding in traditional aspects of biology while discovering the latest research-led innovations
Enhance your practical experience through exciting work placement and internship opportunities
Get to grips with latest instrumentation and technology in our first-rate laboratories. Your studies won’t be confined to the laboratory as fieldwork is an essential part of the course. Our students have travelled to locations such as Twycross Zoo, Kew Gardens, Mallorca and the Maldives - the cost of mandatory trips is included in your course fee
Draw on our extensive network of contacts and strong employer partnerships to broaden your professional outlook
Many of our teaching team are active researchers whose work is shaping debates in areas such as coral reef diseases, animal ecology, cell biology and insect reproduction, so your learning will be informed by the very latest research and developments in biology
90% of students satisfied with academic support - BSc (Hons) Biology**National Student Survey 2020
Biology at Derby
Many of the solutions to major challenges facing the world have a biological basis. This course allows you to study across the human, plant and animal elements of biology, with the opportunity to tailor to your career ambitions and interests, so that you graduate with a broad understanding of how biology can be applied to multiple settings in the real world.
Your first year introduces you to key themes including ecology, evolution, genetics, and anatomy and physiology. As you progress, you’ll develop research skills and can choose optional modules on topics like microbiology, molecular biology and bio-innovation to reflect your career aspirations. You will have opportunities to spend time working in industry to strengthen your CV. You’ll also undertake an independent study into a theme of your choice and could apply on a competitive basis for an internship to contribute to the University’s scientific research.
Biology is a practical subject, so you will learn in the laboratory, field and classroom. Your studies will be enriched with fieldwork and placement opportunities – you could be travelling to Mallorca or the Maldives on study trips, or gaining experience through placements and projects with organisations such as Sea Life, Twycross Zoo, Derby Museums or Derbyshire Wildlife Trust. You’ll also have opportunities to apply for paid internships to add real world experience to your CV.
When you graduate, you’ll have the skills, knowledge and vision to work as a versatile, resourceful and forward-thinking biologist.
Expert teaching
You’ll be taught by a highly qualified team, including many international researchers whose work is shaping debates in areas including ecology, entomology and biodiversity. They publish influential papers, speak at global conferences, and serve on the editorial boards of scientific journals. You'll benefit from this research as your lecturers bring the latest thinking to your studies, and in some cases you will have opportunities to get involved in research projects yourself.
Their wide-ranging work includes research into:
Improving the resilience of coral reefs to climate change
Plant conservation and biotechnology
Biodiversity ecosystem functioning
Cell biology
The evolution of primates
Insect reproduction and behaviour
Animal ecology
Coral Reef systems and megafauna
Soil microbiology
Research is carried out within the University's Environmental Sustainability Research Centre which aims to address local, national and global goals for sustainable development, environmental understanding and clean growth.
How an army of microbes protects the earth
Dr David Elliott is investigating how a tiny army of microbes, moss and lichen do the job of plants in places in the world where plants cannot survive.
Including a foundation year as part of your four-year study programme will give you a head start in your academic and professional life. The foundation year offers the chance to strengthen your skills, knowledge and confidence – with extensive support from our expert staff – before you advance to stage one of your honours degree. It could also be beneficial if you are planning a career change and want to get to grips with aspects of subjects which are new to you.
Our degrees with a foundation year are continuous, meaning that you won’t need to apply again once you have successfully completed the first year.
Excellent fieldwork opportunities
Fieldwork is a vital element of our biology courses and so your studies will be enriched with fieldwork opportunities - the cost of mandatory fieldwork is included in your course fee. Through our fieldwork programme, we introduce students to a variety of survey techniques for a wide range of species, such as:
studying animal interaction at Twycross Zoo
conducting ecological projects in Mallorca
those selecting our optional Tropical Marine Biology module have undertaken scientific investigations in the Maldives
investigating plant adaptations at the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew
For further practical experience, you'll have plenty of opportunity to apply for work placements and paid internships. All of this means you'll be well placed to launch your career, whether you are looking for a graduate job or are planning to go into further study or research.
"I went to Mallorca and the Maldives. Both were amazing. In Mallorca we surveyed rivers, mountains, forests, bird sanctuaries and nature reserves looking at all manner of species." Sam Lebbon, BSc (Hons) Biology, graduate
A learning environment to inspire you
Our learning facilities have recently been upgraded, so you’ll have an up-to-date setting in which to develop high-level practical skills, including laboratories with modern instrumentation. There is also a student research laboratory where you’ll have a dedicated space for your final-year independent study.
Environmental Sustainability Research Centre (ESRC)
Specialising in securing clean environments, nature recovery, and resilience to natural hazards, we work collaboratively to safeguard our planet for future generations.
This module is an introduction to organisms and their environments. This module develops a basic understanding of ecology, biodiversity and environmental sustainability, through the study of interactions between organisms in natural environments and those modified by man. This module outlines the biological, chemical and physical aspects of the biosphere; the cycling of biologically important chemical elements at different scales; the flow of energy through food chains; introduces the concepts of food webs, ecosystems, communities, and biomes.
This module will be taught through a series of interlinked lectures, tutorials, practicals and field trips, and guided independent self-study. Indicative content includes ecological concepts such as: biotic and abiotic environments; ecological niche; food chains and food webs; energy and nutrient flow; nutrient cycling; ecological succession; ecosystems, communities and biomes; biodiversity and biodiversity loss; food and farming; climate change; environmental sustainability.
This module aims to develop the study skills essential for study at university and facilitate the transition into Higher Education. The module will help student understand university systems and processes, the study skills they require to succeed and the role they have in their own learning.
The module will be taught through a series of lectures, tutorials, and workshop sessions. The module will cover three broad themes linked to individual awareness / personal development, digital literacy and study skills. Topics will be delivered by a range of academic and specialist support staff. Indicative content includes: learning styles, student wellbeing, employability, scientific writing, oral communication, teamwork, note-taking, exam preparedness, information location and retrieval and plagiarism and referencing.
This module will introduce the key concepts that underpin biological sciences. It will provide students with a theoretical understanding of the fundamental bioscience areas of cellular biology, biochemistry and genetics. It will also introduce students to how biotechnology is informing our current knowledge of the regulation of cellular mechanisms. The module will also incorporate practical learning to enable students to apply their bioscience knowledge.
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Identify key cellular biological features and show an understanding of genetic and biochemical regulation
Demonstrate an ability to analyse and interpret laboratory/practical data
This is a level 2 module. The module is oriented towards providing students with sufficient English skills to enable them to engage confidently with level 4 modules.
This is an interdisciplinary module that introduces learners to the study of a broad range of environmental sciences. It is highly practical and underpinned by both field and theoretical investigations; this will normally include a residential field course. Learners will apply a range of appropriate techniques to explore features of the environment, collect appropriate data and undertake fundamental analysis of the data, building confidence in quantitative approaches and providing a baseline for future development in this area.
The indicative module content will consist of:
Introduction to landscapes and landscape features
Environmental processes Environmental change over temporal and spatial scales
Habitat types and the factors that control them. Methods of collecting environmental data including chemical (e.g. O2 concentration, pH), physical (e.g. river flow characteristics), and biological (e.g. sampling techniques for a range of species)
This module will provide students with a theoretical understanding of physiology and anatomy of the relevant body systems. Fundamental anatomical and physiological concepts will be explored for a range of body systems in relation to what these systems consist of and how they function. The concepts of health and disease will be introduced as the range of body systems are explored.
The module will incorporate both theoretical and practical learning to enable students to apply their knowledge of the human body.
This module aims to gives students an overview of some of the basic chemical principles that form the foundations of chemistry. Students will learn about the fundamental building blocks of chemistry, exploring the states of matter, its structure and organisation. Students will gain an understanding of the chemical principles of interactions and reactions at the atomic level. Students will then explore fundamental chemistry which underpins applied fields such as forensic science and biology.
The module will be taught through a mixture of lectures, tutorials and practical sessions, employing a range of active learning approaches. Lectures will introduce students to fundamental theories, while problem-based learning in tutorials will be used to consolidate students' understanding of the key concepts. Students will also undertake chemistry-based laboratory experiments to apply the theoretical concepts in a practical context and gain basic laboratory skills. Indicative content will include states of matter, atomic structure, trends in the periodic table, rates of reactions and catalysis in applied biological and forensic chemistry.
This module offers a place-based introduction to the field of Geoscience. Students will gain a multidisciplinary understanding of geography and geology and how these subjects can be applied to understand real-world issues at the local scale. Students will use Derby, its waterways and its environs as a focus to learn about how geology and geography contribute to our appreciation, understanding and management of local environments.
The module will be taught through a series of lectures, practical classes and field experiences in the Derby area. Indicative content areas include: climate, hydrology, geomorphology, geology, hazard management, urban development, local history.
Ecology is the branch of biology that deals with the relations of organisms to one another and to their physical surroundings. This module develops a basic understanding of the fundamental ideas and concepts that have been used to understand these interactions and the consequential distribution and abundance of species. The module will explore these aspects at different levels ranging from a focus on the individual up to full communities. The practical side of the module will introduce students to field techniques useful for both practical and scientific ecological investigations. The module will therefore form a sound basis of knowledge for studying ecological topics in the second and third year as well as a basic understanding of the breadth of ecology for those who do not take the discipline further.
This module introduces students to the process of biological evolution, and the variety of living organisms. It introduces the concepts of ‘species’ and the bases on which different species are distinguished, including comparative morphology and anatomy, and molecular approaches. The bases of binomial nomenclature, taxonomy and systematics are also introduced. Whilst the main focus of the module is on the first groups of organisms to evolve, broad general themes such as macroevolution and rates of evolutionary change are also introduced. The module also enables the development of basic laboratory skills in microbiology and microscopy; and includes practical experience in the use of keys for classification.
Since the full elucidation of DNA structure in 1952 our knowledge in the field of genetics has increased exponentially. The development of molecular techniques means that genetics now has the capacity to impact on almost all areas of human life. Medical testing, conservation work and criminal investigation are three diverse examples of areas that in which genetics plays a major role. Knowledge of such a significant area is thus a pre-requisite for all biological and forensic based study.
The module aims to provide a broad introduction to, and basic understanding of, the key concepts in classical and molecular genetics. The module also addresses the role of genetics in society and some of the ethical issues that surround its use.
Fundamental anatomical and physiological concepts in biology will be explored. Emphasis will be placed on the homeostatic interaction between the structure and function of organ systems and their relationship with the internal and external environment. Comparative Physiology will also be introduced. Concepts of health and disease and medical intervention will be identified throughout the module as a range of body systems are explored. Assessment will be via a portfolio of work built up over the course of the module.
The focus of this module is on fish and groups of organisms that have adapted to life on land, including lower and higher plants, insects and spiders, amphibians, reptiles and mammals. In addition to covering the classification and biology of these groups, wider evolutionary topics will be covered. These will include co-evolution of plants and animals and the causes of extinction.
This module provides students with a range of underpinning knowledge that can support their learning and development in the programme. It takes a deep learning problem-solving approach to teach, practice and apply a range of sciences including maths, physics and chemistry to the biological sciences. Sessions will investigate a range of biological questions and explore how we can use other sciences to help us answer such questions. In doing so the module seeks to get away from the traditional approach of learning other sciences and then applying them to biology – but instead encourages learning the background science required to explore biological questions.
It is envisaged that this biologically focussed approach will inspire curiosity and the enhance thirst for learning in students. As an example, we may choose to explore how chameleons change colour. This biological question requires knowledge of osmosis, intermolecular forces, lattice/crystalline structures and nanoparticles. Sessions will be carefully structured and sequenced to allow learners to develop an increasing knowledge of other sciences and how they might be applied to biology.
The Molecular Biology module builds directly on a range of aspects of genetics covered in the first year modules; particularly ‘Genetics’ and ‘Chemistry for Life’. The module also provides direct support to a wide range of material that will be covered in both biological and forensic modules in the third year. The module covers both theoretical and practical aspects of evolutionary and forensic genetics. A range of skills will be developed which are directly relevant to the workplace.
This module builds on year 1 studies of biomolecules and cells and aims to provide the student with a clear view of cell structure and function, together with the underlying biochemistry and biochemical pathways supporting these activities. The involvement of membranes and the cytoskeleton will be illustrated in activities such as energy production, mitosis and cytokinesis, together with cutting edge subjects such as stem cells, cell aging, cell signalling and cancer.
The module will prepare students for their Independent Studies research project undertaken at level 6 and deliver important information regarding research design and ethics. Students will receive guidance on how to plan and propose a piece of independent research and complete the University Research Ethics proposal form, as well as relevant Health and Safety documents. The module will also address the student’s current professional development with a focus on increasing awareness of graduate skill and career pathways.
This module will support the students in developing a solid foundational understanding of experimental design processes and considerations, as well as key probability and statistical analysis concepts. Students will be taught basic probability theory, leading to an understanding of probability distributions and density functions. We will then build on this by introducing the students to a range of basic statistical tests including t-tests and analysis of variance (ANOVA). Once students have gained confidence in the applications of these tests, linear regression methods will be introduced in order to prepare students for more advanced tests (which they are likely to need to use in their independent studies in the third year and potential careers).
The vast majority of researchers in the biological and zoological areas now use the statistical programming language R to conduct their analyses. Students will be introduced to R and shown how to implement the statistical analyses as well as basic simulations within R.
In addition, students will conduct design, run, and analyse an experiment run over several weeks, resulting in a simulation of a submission of a scientific paper. This will support the students in integrating their increasing knowledge of the application of experimental design and data analysis, as well as providing them with strong training in presenting their work in the form of a journal article.
This module aims to give the student a broad understanding of the study of animal behaviour. It introduces the field of animal behaviour both from the perspective of physiological mechanisms and evolutionary function. The module builds upon Level 4 modules and provides a background in behaviour for those wishing to take Level 6 Behavioural Ecology.
This is a block credit module for students studying Biological Sciences, who undertake one semester of overseas study as part of their BS “Study Abroad” programme. On receipt of a formal transcript from the partner overseas HEI, those students who have successfully achieved the equivalent of 60 credits of learning in the subject will have this module credited to their Academic Transcripts (profile). This is a pass/fail module - only the credits, not the grades, are transferred to UoD.
This is a block credit module for students studying Biological Sciences, who undertake one semester of overseas study as part of their BS “Study Abroad” programme. On receipt of a formal transcript from the partner overseas HEI, those students who have successfully achieved the equivalent of 60 credits of learning in the subject will have this module credited to their Academic Transcripts (profile). This is a pass/fail module - only the credits, not the grades, are transferred to UoD.
This is a block credit module for students studying Biological Sciences, who undertake one semester of overseas study as part of their BS “Study Abroad” programme. On receipt of a formal transcript from the partner overseas HEI, those students who have successfully achieved the equivalent of 60 credits of learning in the subject will have this module credited to their Academic Transcripts (profile). This is a pass/fail module - only the credits, not the grades, are transferred to UoD.
The student will have the opportunity to discover how organisms are adapted to real environments and integrated into functioning ecosystems. The module offers training in practical field techniques on a residential fieldtrip. The module consists of both lectures and real field experience. Students will collect data using a variety of techniques and learn to analyse the data using a range of relevant statistical methods. A variety of locations may be offered in the UK or abroad.
The module develops the concept of disease within the context of the normal physiological mechanisms that underlie some key body systems. It will enhance the background knowledge of anatomy and physiology gained from a previous Stage 1 module (Human Biology). Guest lecturers from the medical and scientific research worlds are invited to discuss the pathology and medical relevance of an aspect of each of the key physiological systems studied. Assessment will be via a series of in-class tests taken at regular intervals throughout the module, and questions relating to epidemiology study design and data analysis.
Micro-organisms have adapted to every available habitat on earth. They have a profound impact on our lives and our environment. This module looks at both the harmful and beneficial effects of microbes and seeks to develop an understanding of their diversity and importance. The module contains a large component of practical laboratory work.
The diversity of terrestrial and aquatic life can be divided into several large, distinct regions, biomes that are characterised by their plant and animal life. This module will consider this diversity, explore the underlying reasons for it and how plants and animals are adapted life in different biomes. The interactions of organisms within biomes will be considered.
The module aims to develop an understanding of the impact of abiotic/biotic factors on the characteristics of life in different biomes. This is contextualised in terms of the impact of human activities and resilience of natural systems to unsustainable practices.
This module is designed to cover a range of topics in the field of human reproduction, including developmental genetics, infertility, sexually transmitted diseases and sex determination. It will be delivered via face-to-face lectures and tutorials from academic staff and medical specialists, as well as having associated directed study. It will be assessed via a two-element piece of coursework and a written exam.
This module provides a framework for the development of “lifelong learning” skills appropriate to all areas of professional practice; including objective setting, planning, negotiating, implementing, demonstrating and reflecting. The emphasis in this module is on the analysis and evaluation of the work completed within the organisation. This module also gives students an opportunity to relate their academic knowledge to the work environment.
Students need to be aware of the commercial realities and external factors that influence the success of an organisation. This module provides opportunities for students to acquire an understanding of contemporary issues that may impact on industrial and professional practices relevant to a career within their chosen discipline.
During this period of work experience, students can gain a deeper appreciation of the responsibilities arising from both corporate and individual responses to such issues, thus enabling them to relate to the wider world when exploring a personal direction for potential career development.
This module represents an opportunity for the student to exercise initiative, creative thinking, and organisational skills in the pursuit of an independent piece of work of his/her choosing (subject to approval on academic, safety and ethical grounds where appropriate), and is a continuation of personal skill development initiated in Stages 4 and 5. Central to the research study will be a degree of problem solving and formulation and testing of hypotheses.
A knowledge of cell signalling is essential to understanding the molecular mechanisms of disease and the rationale behind drug design. This module focuses on the regulatory mechanisms behind the cellular response to a variety of external signals, considering our current understanding of signalling pathway regulation in health and dysregulation in non-communicable disease states.
This module aims to give the student an understanding of the field of behavioural ecology: the study of the survival value of behaviour. The module builds upon previous modules such as Biological Basis of Behaviour. It focuses on two of the main topics in this field: sexual selection and the evolution of altruistic behaviour. By introducing students to current areas of research and controversy in behavioural ecology, it is hoped that they will develop an appreciation of the nature of research in this area.
Ever increasing pressures are being placed on the natural environment whilst at the same time there is a necessity to maintain global biodiversity. It will only be possible to achieve both in a crowded world by carefully managing selected areas for their wildlife. Such management, if carried out scientifically, has the potential not only to maintain or enhance biodiversity but to restore it.
This module looks at the ecological principles behind the management of habitats for their biodiversity. It takes a scientific evidence-based approach to habitat management, translating ecological theory into hands-on practical management.
Each of us carries the record of our personal evolutionary history locked up in our genome. Our genome can also influence our future health and longevity. The focus of this module is an investigation into the main components of the Human genome. We also look at the history of the Human Genome Project and the future prospects now that we have the genome sequence in both biological and forensic contexts. Human genome sequence organization is also contrasted with a number of model organisms from bacteria through to other primates. We also look at the DNA sequence databases and how DNA sequence data is deposited, retrieved and manipulated.
This module provides an opportunity for students to gain knowledge of two specialised areas of human biology; oncology and immunology. Subjects covered will include the genetics of cancer biology, carcinogenesis and epidemiology, virology and mechanisms of antibiotic resistance. The teaching team will include experts from medicine and research, and careers in these fields will be emphasised. Assessment will be via two pieces of coursework (an essay and oral presentation) and an exam.
Effective communication of scientific information to a wide audience is vital social, economic and political tool for society. This module will investigate modes and implementation of effective science communication through a series of workshops. Student will cover the spectrum of delivery methods in modern society including areas such as newspapers, museums, TV programmes and the World Wide Web. Students will also discover the challenges that ineffective communication can present through a series of interesting case studies.
Work experience and volunteering are two important routes to develop a fundamental understanding of issues related to employment within a chosen organisation. This module also has far reaching benefits in terms of providing valuable hands on experience and a platform for developing ideas outside of the taught curriculum.
This module provides an opportunity for the student to undertake a placement within a company, voluntary body or public establishment and is designed for Level 6. The student has freedom to select an appropriate host organisation. By placing the module at level 6, the student should be able to undertake a project based on their knowledge and understanding at this higher level.
The project should be selected so as to generate benefit to the host organisation. An integral part of the student experience is the compilation of a report based on deep reflection of personal experiences acquired during the placement. The report should also reflect wider issues such as the objectives, structure and procedures of the host body and the role of volunteers within the organisation. This analysis must be of a depth commensurate with Level 6 study. The placement work must relate to the student’s degree programme but must have clear differentiation from their Independent Study project in respect of either location or topic.
The conservation of biological diversity is a complex multidisciplinary science. Despite a rapid growth in public interest, funding and local regional and international efforts the loss of species and habitats continues at a rate consistent with historical mass extinctions. Currently, in 2016, the IUCN estimates that up to 37% of mammals, 14% of birds and 56% of amphibian species are threatened with extinction. This module examines the factors that are causing this decline and the strategies that can be implemented to preserve as much of the remaining biological diversity of the Earth as possible. These issues are complex and multifaceted and, whilst the module will concentrate on the biological principles of conservation biology, it will also approach the topic from the multidisciplinary perspective that is required to find a lasting solution to these issues.
This module focuses on insects of forensic importance (Diptera and Coleoptera) in both terrestrial and aquatic environments. It covers insect physiology, lifecycles, behaviour and classification and looks at how insects can provide evidence in medico-legal and environmental investigation. The module provides hands-on experience in insect collection, identification, rearing, accumulated degree day calculations and molecular analysis as well as exploring current research areas. Students will be able to attend additional research seminars on agricultural entomology.
This module introduces the learner to the role of an ecological consultant, a relevant and established career path for graduates with ecological specialisms and growth sector for jobs. Building on skills learned at level 4 and 5 the module will examine key elements and skills required to start a career in the discipline. Students will be introduced to a series of survey techniques including phase 1 habitat surveys and survey techniques for a range of species and taxonomic groups. This content will be complemented by site assessment and report writing skills designed to ensure that learners can meet the exacting requirements of a professional report.
The delivery will consist of a range of lectures that cover the required module content and tutorials designed to support skill development in a range of survey techniques and report writing skills. The face to face content will be supported by relevant up to date generic and bespoke online materials. In addition, learners will be exposed to ecological professionals as either visiting speakers, through visits to appropriate premises or both which, along with personal reflection, will build employability awareness. A substantial element of staff led and independent fieldwork will be required to satisfactorily complete the module.
The Tropical Marine Biology module builds directly on a range of aspects of general biology and zoology covered in first and second year modules, particularly, Evolution of Life, Invertebrates, and Rainforests, Deserts and Oceans. The module also provides a unique opportunity for students to experience the theory in real world scenarios with a tropical field trip. The module covers both theoretical and practical aspects of tropical marine biology specifically focusing on reef ecosystems. A range of skills will be developed which are directly related to marine biology and field research. Students will gain experience in conducting their own projects, presenting their findings in a conference style setting and write up their work in the form of a scientific paper.
The Applied Biosciences module builds directly on a range of aspects of general bioscience covered in first and second year modules, The design of this module allows you to choose 2 out of a number of sub-topics which may be related to specific skills of staff members and current issues in the biological sciences, allowing you to specialise in particular areas of bioscience , The module covers both theoretical and practical aspects of these topics giving you a well-rounded knowledge base on a variety of different areas.
The structure of DNA was elucidated in 1953. Major innovations in genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, pharmaceutical drug development, microbiology, vaccines, monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies, genetically modified organisms, stem cell research and tissue technologies, etc. have been the direct result, or have cascaded from, this single momentous event. Many ‘benchtop research discoveries’ have been developed, scaled-up, commercialised, and brought to the competitive open market; the application of which, in turn, have led to new research discoveries and further repeats of this cycle. This iterative process is true for the development of new ‘biomolecules’, laboratory techniques and procedures, and the development of specific technologies which, in recent decades, has seen the increasing integration of computational technology and nanotechnology.
With a steady rise over recent decades, the global annual financial turnover for “Bio-Innovation” is now in the trillions of US Dollars – a trend that is not expected to decline in the near future. Using a selection of distinct examples – molecular, cellular, microbiological, and technological – this module aims to provide an overview of the wide Bio-Innovation spectrum. The module will also consider aspects of entrepreneurship, intellectual property rights, and funding – all essential for developing a product and bringing it to the commercial market.
This module aims to provide a route for individual learners to undertake an activity or range of activities that allow them to achieve specific learning goals. The module allows students to take responsibility for their own learning needs, effectively building on their existing skills and experiences as a basis for engagement in more in-depth learning relevant to their degree, personal development and future career plans. Student learners will be paired with an advisor (and sometimes a mentor) and will negotiate a learning contract that identifies what they want to achieve and how they will be assessed (subject to the requirements and standards of the University and the QAA).
As such the module provides a route for students to study aspects of their chosen programme that are not covered elsewhere and a means for high-level engagement and development of knowledge and skills that provide for personal attainment and satisfaction as well as increased progression to graduate-level destinations. The module also allows for the development of innovative assessment and pioneering ways of learning that are student-led and play to their strengths. In addition, the module provides an excellent platform for the development and demonstration of transferable skills, especially regarding the management of one’s own personal development.
Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.
Campus Tours
Campus Tours are a great way to explore our campuses, facilities and halls of residence. We’ll be running the tours in two-hour timeslots, giving you the best possible experience while adhering to social distancing guidelines.
Delve deeper into the course with our Virtual Open Day, packed with subject and course information to help you make your choice, including tours of facilities, 360° views of award-winning accommodation plus advice and insight from students and academics.
You’ll learn through lectures, seminars, tutorials, e-learning, hands-on laboratory practical work and fieldwork in the UK and overseas. Our varied teaching methods help you show your individual strengths and enhance your understanding.
Work placements
Placements allow you to develop the skills you learn at University and apply them to real world situations. This is something which potential employers are always looking for. We encourage you to gain experience with potential employers by offering internships and placement opportunities.
Assessment
You’ll be assessed using a range of written assignments including portfolios, practical and fieldtrip write-ups and data analysis, essays, computer-based assessments, poster presentations and seminar presentations, as well as traditional written examinations.
Personal academic tutoring
Your personal academic tutor will work with you to help you get the most out of your time at university. Having someone to talk to about your academic progress, your university experience and your professional aspirations is hugely valuable. We want you to feel challenged in your studies, stretched but confident to achieve your academic and professional goals.
Dr. David Elliott is a microbial ecologist specialising in the roles of microbes in low productivity soils including drylands and the cryosphere. He leads the BSc (hons) Biology programme and teaches a variety of topics in Human and Environmental Sciences.
GCSE Maths and English are preferred, however if you don't have these qualifications you will be able to undertake Maths and English at L2 as part of your course of study.
IELTS
6.0 (with 5.5 in each skills area)
Interview / Audition
N/A
Portfolio
N/A
Alternative entry qualifications:
BTEC - MPP
Pass Access to HE Diploma 60 credits: 45 at Level 3 and 15 at Level 2.
We usually consider an A-level in General Studies as a supplementary qualification. A good application/performance will be taken into account if you do not meet the criteria/offer conditions.
Our entry requirements for this course should be read together with the University's general entry requirements, which details subjects we accept, alternative qualifications and what we're looking for at Derby.
September 2021 typical entry requirements
Requirement
What we're looking for
UCAS points
72
Specific requirements at A-level
No specific subject requirements
Specific requirements at GCSE
GCSE Maths and English are preferred, however if you don't have these qualifications you will be able to undertake Maths and English at Level 2 as part of your course of study.
IELTS
6.0 (with 5.5 in each skills area)
Interview / Audition
N/A
Portfolio
N/A
Alternative entry qualifications:
BTEC - MPP
Pass Access to HE Diploma with 60 credits: 45 at Level 3 and 15 at Level 2
We usually consider an A-level in General Studies as a supplementary qualification. A good application/performance will be taken into account if you do not meet the criteria/offer conditions.
Our entry requirements for this course should be read together with the University's general entry requirements, which details subjects we accept, alternative qualifications and what we're looking for at Derby.
Full-time students applying to start in September should apply for this course through UCAS or you can apply directly to the University for an undergraduate course if you’re not applying to any other UK university in the same year.
Full-time students applying to start in September should apply for this course through UCAS or you can apply directly to the University for an undergraduate course if you’re not applying to any other UK university in the same year.
If you don’t have a place at uni, have had a change of heart about your course, or maybe your gap year plans are on hold – don’t worry. Call our Clearing hotline on 01332 592020 and explore your options.
We’re proud of the achievements of our Biology graduates. Many have gone on to work as research scientists, laboratory and pharmacy technicians, healthcare assistants, medical laboratory assistants, wildlife conservation officers and scientific sales professionals. They regularly return to the University to deliver masterclasses and give inspiring talks to current students about life after graduation.
Our graduates have gone on to successful roles in areas such as:
Molecular consultant
Crop development scientist
Patent advisor
Biologics production technician
Quality laboratory manager
Aquaculture entrepreneur
Synthetic biology biotechnologist
Clinical trials co-ordinator
Research scientist
Pharmacy technician
Through our Professional Development Package, you'll gain valuable skills, including:
Scientific writing and use of scientific software
Written and verbal communication
Research and statistical analysis
Data handling and analysis
Personal motivation, organisation and self-reflection
Digital competency
Laboratory and fieldwork analysis
Critical awareness
Project management
As well as equipping you for a broad range of scientific careers, our course paves the way to professional, specialist and postgraduate qualifications. Some of our graduates have undertaken further study to pursue a future in veterinary or medical science. Others have progressed to teaching and lecturing roles after completing postgraduate courses. If you are interested in exploring practical solutions to environmental problems, you could also consider our masters degree; MSc Conservation Biology.
Careers and Employment Service
To boost your employment skills, you can access the University's Careers and Employment Service. The team can connect you with employers to help find opportunities for work placements, part-time jobs, and volunteering. Our careers consultants are also on hand to guide you through the career options for your degree, CV writing, or starting your own business - and we commit to helping you for three years after you graduate to find a job.
Contact us
If you need any more information from us, eg on courses, accommodation, applying, car parking, fees or funding, please contact us and we will do everything we can to help you.
Like most universities, we operate extended teaching hours at the University of Derby, so contact time with your lecturers and tutors could be anytime between 9am and 9pm. Your timetable will usually be available on the website 24 hours after enrolment on to your course.
Additional costs and optional extras
We’re committed to providing you with an outstanding learning experience. Our expert teaching, excellent facilities and great employability prepare you for your future career. As part of our commitment to you we aim to keep any additional study costs to a minimum. However, there are occasions where students may incur some additional costs.
The information below is correct for entry in the academic year September 2020 - August 2021 only. Entry for future academic years may be subject to change.
Included in your fees
You will receive a dissection kit, goggles and a laboratory coat
All equipment and consumables needed for your experimental/ fieldwork are provided by the University. This is subject to consumables being costed for the Independent Study and approved by your programme leader
Free membership of the Royal Society of Biology for a year after graduation
Mandatory fieldtrips in optional modules: Previous destinations have included Kew Gardens, Sea Life Centre and Hardwick Hall Woodlands
Mandatory costs not included in your fees
If not already owned, appropriate footwear for fieldwork such as Wellington/Walking boots - approximate cost is between £5-£50
If not already owned, appropriate outdoor clothing such as a waterproof jacket and trousers - approximate cost is between £50-£100
Two bound copies of your Independent Study - approximate cost is £12
Optional costs not included in your fees
Additional international fieldtrip costs for optional modules as follows: Field Biology L5 (Majorca) - approximate cost is £480, Tropical Marine Biology L6 (Maldives) - approximate cost is £1,900
Travel to work experience/placements - cost is dependent on your placement venue of choice
Our links with the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) give you the opportunity to gain Student Membership with CIEEM - approximate cost is £10
Please note: Our courses are refreshed and updated on a regular basis. If you are thinking about transferring onto this course (into the second year for example), you should contact the programme leader for the relevant course information as modules may vary from those shown on this page.
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