Biology (Cellular and Molecular Biology), Newcastle University

Course Overview

This degree focuses on biomolecules, organelles and cells, and how they all contribute to the function of organisms as a whole.

At a Glance

UCAS Code
C1C7

UCAS Institution Name and Code
NEWC, N21

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Degree Awarded
BSc Honours

Course Duration
3 Years

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Entry Requirements
A Level: AAB-ABB
IB: 35 points

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This degree covers plants, animals and micro-organisms. After studying our core biology curriculum in your first year, you go on to study specialist topics including:

• cell biology
• plant and animal physiology
• immunology

Teaching in later Stages is strongly informed by our research expertise and includes topics such as:

• biotechnology
• genomics
• animal ecophysiology
• plant biology

You'll develop scientific skills required by professional biologists through lab-based sessions and a specialist week-long laboratory workshop on molecular techniques.

Highlights of this degree

Quality and ranking

Quality and ranking

Biological Sciences at Newcastle  ranks in the top 150 universities in the world in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2016.

Shared first year

Shared first year

The first year is shared with other degrees in the School, providing all students with a thorough foundation in the essentials of the subject.

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

You also study modules in:

• ecology
• evolution
• biochemistry
• cell biology
• genetics
• a topic from a choice in agriculture, marine biology or psychology

You can transfer to one of our other degrees before the second year should your interests change (subject to achieving the appropriate grades).

Laboratory experience

Laboratory experience

All of our Biology and Zoology degrees are designed to ensure that you gain practical experience. Practical laboratory experience is emphasised in several modules, including a week-long laboratory workshop providing training in the application of molecular techniques that are sought after in the industrial and research sectors.

There are also day excursions that take advantage of our unique geographic location close to a variety of natural habitats, from Northumberland National Park to the stunning local coastline.

We also offer a vocational placement module, which enables you to enhance your CV by gaining academic credit for work in biology off campus.

Facilities and support

This degree is run by the friendly School of Biology, located in the Ridley Building on Newcastle's city-centre campus.

Facilities

Facilities include:

• a field station which has a glasshouse complex and dedicated teaching facilities
• two University farms in Northumberland, which are used as demonstration facilities for students
• purpose-built teaching laboratories
• an on-campus museum