Human Biology
BSc (Hons)

If you’d like a scientific career where you can focus on improving people’s health and wellbeing, our BSc (Hons) Human Biology course is the ideal starting point.

• Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, this course demonstrates quality and sets a high professional standard
• Build up-to-date bioscience skills which are important for careers in medical research, the NHS, health charities and biomedical industries
• Develop your understanding of infectious and genetic diseases, as well as the impact that lifestyle choices have on health
• Tailor your course to your own interests by choosing from a broad selection of specialist modules in bioscience, psychology and sport science
• Opportunities for placements and internships with organisations like the Leukaemia Research Foundation and Royal Derby Hospital
• Strengthen your employability through work placements, internships and projects where you can assist in the University’s human health research – all opportunities which are offered on a competitive basis
• Learn from a research-active teaching team

Biomedical Science and Human Biology - your questions answered

In the below video, Head of Discipline for Biomedical and Forensic Science, Dr Shivadas Sivasubramaniam, answers some of the most frequently asked questions about subject at the University of Derby. You can also watch exclusive subject content by signing up to Derby on Demand.

Human Biology at Derby

If you aspire to a scientific career focused on improving people's health and wellbeing, this degree is an ideal starting point. Studying Human Biology places you at the forefront of advances in areas like medicine, sports science, nutrition and mental health.

Ageing is inevitable - but healthy ageing is achievable. With people living longer and the population getting older, effective approaches to healthy ageing have never been more important, as reflected in global initiatives, like the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals where 'Good Health and Wellbeing' is highlighted as a priority. By studying with us, you will address some of the most pressing health concerns facing today's society, by investigating the cause, effect and treatment of human disease and illness.

This course delivers a solid grounding in human physiology and anatomy, biochemistry, genetics and medical microbiology, helping you understand the basis of human disease, diagnosis and treatment. You'll also explore factors which impact health such as nutrition, smoking, air pollution, and alcohol/drug misuse, plus the social and economic changes and government policies transforming global public health.

Professional and career development skills are embedded throughout our courses. You'll have the opportunity to visit different health care and laboratory environments and attend guest lectures from leading professionals.

Expert teaching

You'll benefit from working with lecturers who have a wealth of experience in their chosen profession, so you're getting industry relevant teaching to help you shine in your chosen career. Many are also involved in research, bringing the latest theories into the classroom.

The diversity of research projects under way is vast – covering issues such as:

• The role of the Human Papilloma Virus in the development of head and neck cancers
• Antibiotic resistance bacteria in healthy individuals
• Mechanisms and cardiovascular effects of anti-angiogenic drugs

You could apply to help with the team’s research projects, which will deepen your understanding and give you an ideal preparation for your future career.

"Every one of my lecturers inspired me with their passion for the subject and their desire for students to question them. They want you to do well and helped whenever I asked." Claire Storer, BSc (Hons) Human Biology graduate

Invaluable placement opportunities

You can apply to work in industry or undertake an internship between stages two and three of the course. This not only helps to prepare you for your final year of studies, but also provides an opportunity to add solid experience to your CV, boosting your future prospects. Previously, our students have secured roles at the Leukaemia Research Foundation in London, Royal Derby Hospital and local pharmacies. 

Specialist facilities

Our facilities include a molecular biology laboratory, class ll microbiology laboratory and tissue culture facilities. We provide modern instrumentation and specialist containment facilities for the growth and manipulation of bacteria and viruses, as well as the sequencing and characterisation of DNA.

We have also opened a student research laboratory which gives you a dedicated space throughout your studies.

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.

You’ll learn through lectures, seminars, tutorials, and e-learning, supported by hands-on laboratory practicals. 

Assessment

No single assessment style suits everyone, so we take a diverse approach across the different modules. You’re assessed using a range of written assignments (including data analysis, portfolios, and practical reports), computer-based assessments, poster and seminar presentations.

Tailor your degree

You can adapt your studies to suit your chosen career path while gaining a greater understanding of how the body functions. We offer a selection of optional modules in bioscience, sport science and psychology to enable you to focus on areas that interest you most. In your final year, you’ll undertake an in-depth research project into a human health theme which matches your interests and aspirations.

Broaden your perspectives

We’re committed to your professional and career development. Guest speakers will add an extra dimension to your learning experience. We also have a vibrant Human Biology Society, established and run by students, which organises monthly guest lectures, for example, the inaugural lecture covered research into the environmental health conditions in the Calais refugee camps.

2021 entry

These are the typical qualification requirements for September 2021 entry.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.0 (with at least 5.5 in each skills area)

2022 entry

These are the typical qualification requirements for September 2022 entry.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.0 (with at least 5.5 in each skills area)

2021/22 Fees (August 2021 - July 2022)

Further information about our fees and support you may be entitled to.

Additional costs and optional extras

Studying Human Biology equips you with highly relevant and up-to-date skills that are important for careers in the NHS, health charities, medical research and biomedical industries, in roles such as:

• Research Scientist​
• NHS Diagnostic Scientist​
• Medical Professional​
• Health Care Specialist​
• Pharmaceutical Researcher​
• Lecturer​
• Teacher​
• Scientific Writer​
• Pharmaceutical Sales​
• Public Health Service​
• Clinical Trials Co-ordinator 

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.

Additional information about your studies

Teaching hours

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 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
• If a DBS check is needed for the purposes of a module or programme related work placement, this is included in your fee if done via the University

Mandatory costs not included in your fees

• Two bound copies of your Independent Study - approximate cost is £12

Optional costs not included in your fees

• Recommended textbook - approximate cost is £60
• If a DBS check is needed for the purposes of a module or programme related work placement
• Travel to work experience/placements - cost is dependent on your placement venue of choice
• Membership of the Human Biology society - 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.

Other courses you might like

• Human Biology with Foundation Year BSc (Hons)
• Biomedical Science BSc (Hons)
• Biomedical Science with Foundation Year BSc (Hons)
• Biology BSc (Hons)
• Biology with Foundation Year BSc (Hons)