Biology and History and Philosophy of Science, BSc, University of Leeds

Course content

A Joint Honours degree allows you to study the same core topics as students on each Single Honours course, but you'll take fewer options and discovery modules so you can fit in both subjects. You'll also undertake a major research project in either subject in your final year.

Biology 

Core modules in your first year will develop your knowledge of key areas in biology, such as cell biology and genetics. You'll also have a choice of optional modules, including further practical classes. From that foundation you'll continue to choose from modules on topics such as animal behaviour, experimental design, plant science and bioinformatics over the next two years.

History and Philosophy of Science 

In your first year core modules will introduce you to themes and approaches in history and philosophy of science, such as philosophy of science and the development of scientific thought. You'll develop your knowledge in the following year by choosing optional modules in areas like epistemology and the history of ideas. You'll continue to select optional modules in your final year, from realism and representation to philosophical questions in technology.

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Entry requirements, fees and applying

  Entry requirements

  A-level: ABB including B in Biology

  GCSE: grade 6/B in Mathematics.

  • Career opportunities

    Studying for a Joint Honours degree allows you to gain an in-depth knowledge of two subjects and demonstrates that you're intellectually versatile. Your degree will equip you with a wide range of skills across different disciplines that employers actively seek.

    You'll have good research skills, and you'll be able to analyse complex information from multiple sources before drawing your own conclusions. You'll then be able to communicate and defend your views clearly, either verbally or in writing. In addition, you'll have strong research and organisational skills and be confident working independently or in a team.

    All of these qualities are very attractive to employers, and graduates have pursued careers reflecting the diversity of their degrees. They've gone on to be successful in education, the media, law, publishing, the civil service, business and finance and the charity sector to name a few. Many others have also pursued postgraduate study.

    To find out more about graduate destinations in your subjects, please see the relevant Single Honours pages.

    Careers support

    We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That's one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

    Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.

    The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

  • Study abroad and work placements

    Study abroad

    On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. The University has partnerships with more than 400 universities worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America. 

    Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

    Work placements

    Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.

    Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.