Biological Sciences BSc (Hons)
Subject and course type
- Biology, Biochemistry and Biomedical Science
- Undergraduate
Take your first steps towards a career in the biological sciences with the Biological Science BSc (Hons) degree course from ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ. This degree is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB), so you can stay up to date with developments in life sciences. You can also choose to integrate a year’s professional placement into your degree, to give your career a head start.
You are reading:
Explore the science of living organisms in our state-of-the-art laboratories
Ground yourself in subjects, ranging from evolution, genetics and diversity to medicine, drug and human development.
At our Penrhyn Road campus, you will have access to a modern environment with the latest equipment, including:
- the £9.8 million Eadweard Muybridge building with state-of the art laboratories
- an exercise physiology and biomechanics lab
- modern applied biology and chemistry laboratories
- specialist equipment, such as electron microscopes and spectrometers
- computing laboratories and a team of IT technicians to offer assistance
The Library offers:
- subject libraries, plus a free inter-library loan scheme to other libraries in the Greater London area
- online database subscriptions
- a growing selection of resource material
ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ provided the perfect balance of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. The supportive academic environment, facilities, and research-driven curriculum prepared me well for pursuing a career in science and research.
Why choose this course
The biological sciences form the basis of many new areas of science and technology. They are the foundation of our understanding of a diverse range of subjects – from evolution, genetics and diversity to medicine, drug and human development.
On this course, you can choose to specialise in Medical Biology or Molecular Biology.
Practical work includes a laboratory and/or field-based project, a data project or a systematic review. Project work might be based in a laboratory or organisation outside the University. Through a combination of theory and practical work, you'll gain the knowledge, techniques and skills you need to boost your employability, ready for when you graduate.
We have updated our modules to enhance student-centred teaching and align course content with industry needs, helping you become a future-proof graduate.
Accreditation
This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology. ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ graduates from this programme will receive one year's free membership of the Royal Society of Biology.
The Royal Society of Biology is the leading professional body for the biological sciences in the United Kingdom. The Society represents more than 16,000 biologists from all areas of the life sciences, as well as more than 100 organisations which make up the diverse landscape of biology in the UK and overseas. The Royal Society of Biology offers members unique opportunities to engage with the life sciences and share their passion for biology.
Whichever area of biology you wish to gain a career in, Royal Society of Biology membership will help you:
- Stay up to date with what is happening across the life sciences
- Gain additional recognition for your skills and experience
- Develop your professional network
- Demonstrate your support for the future of biology
Course content
Year 1
Year 1 is common to both streams of this biological sciences degree – medical biology and molecular biology – as well as a number of other degrees. It has been designed to give you a thorough understanding of the core subjects within life sciences and provides a measure of flexibility between courses.
Core modules
30 credits
This module provides you with a dynamic exploration of how human physiology and anatomy work together to underpin health, movement, and physical performance. You will investigate how key physiological systems like the cardiovascular, muscular, and nervous systems work together, while exploring the principles of biomechanics to understand how the body moves and adapts to homeostatic challenges.
Through hands-on labs and workshops, you will develop practical skills in data collection, experimental design, and analysis, learning how to measure and evaluate human performance. By the end of this module, you will have a solid grasp of how human physiology and anatomy are studied and how they relate to broader issues like sustainability and human health.
30 credits
This module introduces basic cell biology of prokaryotes and eukaryotes, genetics, germ layers, and tissue types in the human body, as well as various microorganisms.
You will experience practical sessions in a state-of-the-art laboratory, on microscopy, histology, cytogenetics and microbiology, enabling you to develop practical skills in the correct use of microscopes, examining and studying chromosomes, prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, microbes and tissues, interpreting, and recording biological data, and build upon your knowledge gained from lectures.
This module provides a foundation for advanced modules in cell biology, anatomy, physiology, genetics, and microbiology.
30 credits
This module provides an understanding of how basic chemical elements are bonded to form complex biomolecules in living systems. In this module, we will explore the role and structure of proteins, carbohydrates and lipids and delve into defining their properties and functions. The module will also introduce the vital role of energy transformations in living organisms.
Core material is delivered through lectures, online resources and activities, and problem-solving workshops supported by laboratory practicals and subsequent data analysis.
On completion of the module, you will have a comprehensive grounding in the molecular basis of life from the atomic scale up to cells. This module will help you develop the skills necessary for enhancing your learning through effective note-taking and critical thinking, which will continue to help you throughout your degree.
30 credits
This module provides a firm foundation in the general scientific and laboratory skills students require to successfully complete their programmes of study.
A significant component of the module consists of the development and demonstration of core technical/practical skills through familiarity with the laboratory environment through hands-on learning.
This module will also introduce you to Future Skills through engagement with the Navigate programme introducing the key graduate attributes required in developing your professional development portfolio in the biosciences. The Future Skills concepts and activities will support you in developing and evidencing your practice, scientific analytical/problem-solving, teamworking, digital competency, practical and numeracy skills.
Year 2
In Year 2, you will have core modules and specialist modules within your chosen specialism (Medical Biology or Molecular Biology). You will develop your knowledge, techniques and practical skills, as well as additional transferable and employability Future Skills.
Core modules
30 credits
This module is divided into two distinct parts. The first part explores biodiversity on our planet and investigates the genetic processes that create this variation. Through real-world examples and computer-based workshops, students will examine both historical and ongoing evolution.
The second part broadens the scope to encompass the wider aspects of the biological sciences and beyond. It focuses on developing your Future Skills by engaging you with Explore, enhancing your research, problem-solving, and critical thinking abilities, and preparing you for their final year capstone project. You will be supported by tutor meetings, which help you work on tasks to develop, articulate, and reflect on your progress and graduate attributes. The Future Skills learning outcomes are integrated into this module.
30 credits
This module provides you with knowledge of the structure and methods of analysis of proteins, with particular emphasis on enzymes. This is followed by the study of the major catabolic and anabolic pathways and investigates how organisms obtain and use energy. These processes, and their regulation in health and disease, are considered at the molecular level, which involves many proteins including enzymes.
You will investigate how organisms obtain and utilise energy from metabolic pathways. You will gain a detailed understanding of the structure of proteins, including enzymes, and have a comprehensive knowledge of practical and graphical methods involved in the investigation of enzyme activity.
You will also develop key practical skills involved in protein biochemistry and metabolism.
Medical Biology route
30 credits
This module delves into the fascinating world of microorganisms, that play a big role in health and disease. We’ll explore how our immune system responds to these microscopic agents. Through interactive lectures and workshops, we’ll examine various microbiological processes. You will learn about controlling these organisms in laboratory settings and within patients. You will also become familiar with the immune system’s different cells and organs, understanding how they work together to protect the body from infections upon first exposure and during subsequent encounters. Lastly, we’ll introduce some of the molecular processes and signalling events crucial for communication between human immune cells.
30 credits
This module discusses the fascinating world of cellular mechanisms of disease and explore how cellular pathology integrates with clinical pathology and other disciplines. Particular emphasis is given to hand-on laboratory techniques to understand cellular injury and its role in routine diagnosis. By the end of the module, you will understand the effects of cell injury, inflammation, cancer, infertility, and genetic diseases on cells. You will learn how cellular pathology and diagnostic techniques contribute to disease identification and the development of research-informed treatments, preparing you for bright and impactful careers in science.
Molecular Biology route
30 credits
You will be introduced to the molecular and cellular basis of human diseases. This module covers basic concepts of inheritance patterns, population genetics and genetic disorders including single-gene disorders, chromosomal imbalances, epigenetics, and complex disorders. You will learn about molecular genetics techniques, genetic testing and counselling, pharmacogenomics, and personalised medicine.
The module covers basic bioinformatic tools and computational techniques used in analysing large volumes of biological data that help in the identification of genetic variations and their influence on disease processes. You will also be introduced to cutting-edge advancements in the field including gene therapy and editing, single-cell sequencing, and omics technologies. You will gain insight into how these technologies are shaping the future of medical genetics research and clinical practice.
30 credits
This module builds on topics covered in your first year and explores advanced concepts in cell and molecular biology. The module provides a molecular insight into the structure and function of cells and takes an integrated approach to understand how cells respond to changes in their environment – from receptor interactions and intracellular signalling pathways through to the regulation of gene expression and changes in cellular processes.
You will discover various mechanisms of intracellular signalling in different organisms. You will gain a detailed knowledge of the processes involved in the regulation of gene expression. You will also learn about practical methods relevant to cell and molecular biology, for example fluorescence microscopy, RT-PCR.
Year 3
In Year 3, you will examine more advanced and applied aspects within your subject area. You will also undertake an independent project - this provides an opportunity to research a topic of your choice within your specialism as either a laboratory-based project or a library-based dissertation.
Core modules
30 credits
You will gain insights into the scientific basis of recent technological advances in biomolecular science through selected examples of contemporary scientific research and their impact on society. This module will build on your previous knowledge and skills to demonstrate the successful translation of research to public benefit.
Employability and enterprise are embedded to develop your scientific and professional skills, particularly those of developing inclusive behaviours, communication, reflection, teamworking and problem-solving. The Future Skills Apply learning outcomes are delivered in this module.
30 credits
Your independent project forms a very important part of your degree programme. There are several types of projects that may be offered to you: a laboratory or field-based project, data projects involving acquisition of data and information from surveys, computer simulations or bioinformatics, or a systematic review of research literature that includes the collection, analysis, and original presentation of reported research data.
Your project will include a review and critical evaluation of qualitative and quantitative information and data to address a hypothesis or research question, and the production of a written report.
Medical Biology route
30 credits
In this module, we explore how laboratory investigations contribute to diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases such as renal disease, diabetes, anaemia, and haematological malignancies. Additionally, we delve into the role of transfusion laboratories in treating specific disorders.
You will learn about the processes involved in the investigation of blood groups and the techniques used in blood transfusion. You will discover the diagnostically useful changes which occur in normal body chemistry in selected examples of disease/trauma.
Throughout the course, real-life case studies illustrate best practices in clinical chemistry and haematology. Expert practitioners also deliver keynote lectures, enriching your learning experience. Plus, we emphasise equipping you with the knowledge and practical skills sought after by employers.
30 credits
This module provides you with an opportunity to learn about drug therapies used in the treatment of both infectious diseases and cancer. Treatments for infectious diseases will cover drugs that have actions on bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, while the cancer therapies will include a range of different neoplastic diseases, including drug treatments for both solid and blood cancers.
Your lectures will focus on the mode of action, side effects and mechanisms of resistance of antimicrobials and anti-cancer drugs, as well as the development of new drugs.
Molecular Biology route
30 credits
Enormous amounts of data are generated in Life Sciences research every day with a wide range of applications such as providing insight into genetic diseases, modelling how a drug interacts with its target protein, exploring the diversity of microbes in our digestive systems, establishing changes of gene expression in cancer/disease, and tracking the spread of cancerous cells. Bioinformatics forms an interface between biological sciences and information technology. In this module, you will develop the skills necessary to write your own computer programs (using R and/or Python) and use online tools to analyse and interpret real-world biological datasets. Alongside this, you will explore genomic variability, molecular evolution and phylogenetics in the context of bioinformatics. The module introduces an area of increasing importance in many areas of bioscience research, including molecular diagnostics and drug development.
Core factual material is provided predominantly via computing workshops, supported by demonstrations of online bioinformatic resources, guided reading, and lectures. Additional resources will be placed on Canvas. You will undertake an individual bioinformatics mini-project investigating an authentic research question that integrates the learning across the module.
30 credits
You will learn about the molecular and cellular basis of neurological and psychiatric disorders and differences. You will explore existing and new pharmacological and other therapies to treat these conditions. This research-driven module will introduce you to a range of topical areas in neuropharmacology, psychopharmacology, neurophysiology and neuroscience, including neurodiversity and neuroplasticity.
You will experience relevant research techniques, will learn to critically evaluate and discuss different ways of studying the brain, and will explore sustainability and inclusivity aspects of neuropharmacology.
Professional placement
All students are encouraged to identify opportunities for work experience during the course, which may be through an optional professional placement year taken between Years 2 and 3.
Science Foundation Year
If you would like to study one of our science degrees at ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ but are not yet ready to join the first year of a BSc (Hons) course, you can include an extra foundation year within your chosen degree. Please see the science foundation year course page for details of modules.
Future Skills and career opportunities
This degree can lead to careers in the pharmaceutical, medical, food, biotech and veterinary industries, as well as teaching and research.
Examples of graduate jobs include:
- Bio technician
- Scientific officer
- Account manager
- Quality control technician
- Research assistant
Recent graduate employers include the Institute of Cancer Research, Cancer Research UK, Kingston Hospital NHS Trust, Wellcome Trust, Natural History Museum and Kew Gardens.
Boost your employability
Embedded within this course and throughout the whole Kingston experience is our Future Skills programme. The Future Skills programme was developed to respond to the ever-evolving demands from modern day employment.
It will help you obtain the skills most valued by employers, such as problem-solving, digital competency and adaptability, and learn how to apply these skills in different scenarios. You’ll also learn how to articulate to employers how being able to do so gives you the edge.
At ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ, we're not just keeping up with change, we're creating it
For more information on how Kingston prepares you for the future job market, visit our Future Skills page.
Teaching and assessment
Scheduled learning and teaching on this course includes timetabled activities including lectures, seminars, small group tutorials and practical sessions.
It may also include placements, project work, workshops, conferences and field trips.
Outside the scheduled learning and teaching hours, you will learn independently through self-study which will involve reading articles and books, working on projects, undertaking research, preparing for and completing your work for assessments. Some independent study work may need to be completed on-campus, as you may need to access campus-based facilities such as studios and labs.
When you arrive at university, we'll introduce you to your personal tutor.
What is a personal tutor?
A personal tutor is a dedicated member of academic staff who will support you throughout your time at Kingston.
How will they help me?
Your personal tutor will be on hand to discuss issues and developments you experience during your course. They’ll offer academic guidance on studying, student life and career progression. Your personal tutor will also help you to navigate course challenges, set goals, and make the best use of university resources. They’ll support you academically and provide guidance on how to achieve your best.
When can I speak to my personal tutor?
Your tutor will be available for regular meetings throughout your degree. You can get in touch with them at any time to ask questions and arrange a check-in.
Support services at ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ
ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ offers a wide range of support services for students with different personal circumstances. Our support team can help with disability and mental health support. They also host services for care leavers, young adult carers and more. Academic support is a core focus, but all Kingston students have access to additional resources for overall well-being.
Check our Student Support page to find out more about the full range of support on offer at ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ.
When you arrive, we'll introduce you to your personal tutor. This is the member of academic staff who will provide academic guidance, be a support throughout your time at Kingston and show you how to make the best use of all the help and resources that we offer at ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ.
A course is made up of modules, and each module is worth a number of credits. You must pass a given number of credits in order to achieve the award you registered on, for example 360 credits for a typical undergraduate course or 180 credits for a typical postgraduate course. The number of credits you need for your award is detailed in the programme specification which you can access from the link at the bottom of this page.
One credit equates to 10 hours of study. Therefore 120 credits across a year (typical for an undergraduate course) would equate to 1,200 notional hours. These hours are split into scheduled and guided. On this course, the percentage of that time that will be scheduled learning and teaching activities is shown below for each year of study. The remainder is made up of guided independent study.
- Year 1: 24% scheduled learning and teaching
- Year 2: 26% scheduled learning and teaching
- Year 3: 20% scheduled learning and teaching
The exact balance between scheduled learning and teaching and guided independent study will be informed by the modules you take.
Your course will primarily be delivered in person. It may include delivery of some activities online, either in real time or recorded.
Types of assessment
Medical biology route:
Year 1: coursework 80%; exams 20%
Year 2: coursework 75%; exams 25%
Year 3: coursework 74%; exams 26%
Molecular biology route:
Year 1: coursework 80%; exams 20%
Year 2: coursework 77.5%; exams 22.5%
Year 3: coursework 72%; exams 28%
We aim to provide feedback on assessments within 20 working days.
Your individualised timetable is normally available to students within 48 hours of enrolment. Whilst we make every effort to ensure timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled learning and teaching can take place on any day of the week between 9am and 6pm. For undergraduate students, Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities, but there may be occasions when this is not possible. Timetables for part-time students will depend on the modules selected.
To give you an indication of class sizes, this course normally enrols 30 students and lecture sizes are normally 30Â-325Â. However this can vary by module and academic year.
The lab work built my confidence and allowed me to become familiar with a variety of techniques. Although you don't really notice it, you also pick up a lot of practical skills, such as time management, organisation, punctuality and presentation skills.
Fees and funding
| Fee category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Home (UK students) | |
| £9,535* | |
| Foundation Year: | £9,535 |
| International | |
| Year 1 (2025/26): | £18,500 |
| Year 2 (2026/27): | £19,200 |
| Year 3 (2027/28): | £19,900 |
| Year 4 (2028/29): | £20,700 |
The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'International' student. In 2025/26 the fees for this course are above.
For courses with Professional Placement, the fee for the placement year can be viewed in our Fees and Funding section. The placement fee published is for the relevant academic year stated in the table. This fee is subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body.
* For full-time programmes of a duration of more than one academic year, the published fee is an annual fee, payable each year, for the duration of the programme. Your annual tuition fees cover your first attempt at all of the modules necessary to complete that academic year. A re-study of any modules will incur additional charges calculated by the number of credits. Home tuition fees may be subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body. Full-time taught International fees are subject to an annual increase and are published in advance for the full duration of the programme.
Eligible UK students can apply to the Government for a tuition loan, which is paid direct to the University. This has a low interest-rate which is charged from the time the first part of the loan is paid to the University until you have repaid it.
Scholarships and bursaries
For students interested in studying this course at Kingston, there are several opportunities to seek funding support.
Additional course costs
Some courses may require additional costs beyond tuition fees. When planning your studies, you’ll want to consider tuition fees, living costs, and any extra costs that might relate to your area of study.
Your tuition fees include costs for teaching, assessment and university facilities. So your access to libraries, shared IT resources and various student support services are all covered. Accommodation and general living expenses are not covered by these fees.
Where applicable, additional expenses for your course may include:
Our libraries have an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as open-access computers and laptops available to rent. However, you may want to buy your own computer or personal copies of key textbooks. Textbooks may range from £50 to £250 per year. And a personal computer can range from £100 to £3,000 depending on your course requirements.
While most coursework is submitted online, some modules may require printed copies. You may want to allocate up to £100 per year for hard copies of your coursework. It’s worth noting that 3D printing is never compulsory. So if you choose to use our 3D printers, you’ll need to pay for the material. This ranges from 3p per gram to 40p per gram.
ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ will pay for all compulsory field trips. Fees for optional trips can range from £30 to £350 per trip.
Your tuition fees don’t cover travel costs. To save on travel costs, you can use our free intersite bus service. This route links the campuses and halls of residence with local train stations - Surbiton, Kingston and Norbiton.
Specific courses may require uniforms, specialty clothing, or specific equipment like lab coats and safety shoes. ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ will supply you with a lab coat and safety goggles at the start of the year.
Some courses may require professional memberships.
Course changes and regulations
The information on this page reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. To improve your student experience and the quality of your degree, we may review and change the material information of this course. Find out more about course changes
for the course are published ahead of each academic year.
Regulations governing this course can be found on our website.
What our graduates and students say
One standout experience I’ve had was my final year project on the effect of natural compounds on cervical cancer cells which applied my scientific knowledge to a real-world problem.
The staff definitely want to push you to do your best. The support system is 10/10. Any challenge that I’ve ever faced, I knew for sure that there was someone I could go to, to help me overcome my challenge.
The Biological Sciences degree enabled me to progress onto a masters in immunology of infectious diseases and this helped me step into my first 'real' job. I am currently a researcher at Imperial College London for the Department of Immunology.
Key information
The scrolling banner below displays some key factual data about this course (including different course combinations or delivery modes of this course where relevant).
