Biological Sciences
Critical-thinking ● Problem-solving ● Science-loving
We are serious about science, and we are proud to have contributed to important advances in the history of human and animal medicine, animal welfare, disease control and the study of evolution.
As a small specialist university, we can offer you the chance to enjoy unrivalled practical laboratory time to learn and develop your hands-on scientific skills. Our world-renowned experts and exciting research opportunities will give you the learning experience you need to take your knowledge to the highest level and to help shape the future of science. You will have the chance to undertake a research project in both your second and third year, with plenty of one-to-one support from your research project supervisors. To complete your research experience, choose an MSci course, which offers you the unique opportunity of spending your entire final year on your own research project.
Courses
UCAS code: C100
The BSc Biological Sciences course offers a unique programme of research, unrivalled teaching and some of the best practical facilities in the UK. The programme draws on our long history of cutting-edge research that has contributed to advances in human and veterinary medicine, and explores the fundamentals of biological and biomedical science that are needed to understand and develop new therapies for both human and animal diseases.
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UCAS code: D300
The BSc Bioveterinary Sciences course is a unique blend of the biological sciences relating to animals, the way they work, their health, their diseases and their relationships with humans.
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UCAS code: D390
Animal welfare is at the heart of our mission, and it is a growing, dynamic field of study. The BSc Biological Sciences (Animal Behaviour, Welfare and Ethics) builds on our international reputation in this field. If you are passionate about animal welfare and wonder why different animals behave the way they do, then this course might be for you.
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UCAS code: C301
The BSc in Biological Sciences (Wildlife Health Science) is an undergraduate degree, the aim of which is to give you a thorough foundation in biosciences, with further specialisation into aspects of biology required by wild animal professionals.
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UCAS code: C102
The MSci in Biological Sciences is an undergraduate integrated master’s degree, the aim of which is to prepare you for a PhD or a career in an academic or industrial research environment, where you will endeavour to make advances in human and veterinary medicine.
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UCAS code: D302
The MSci in Bioveterinary Sciences is an undergraduate integrated master’s degree, the aim of which is to prepare you for a PhD or a career in an academic or industrial research environment, for example within the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industries, and for other biological, biomedicine and veterinary-related careers.
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UCAS code: C103
The MSci in Applied Biological Research is an undergraduate, integrated master’s degree with an industry placement in the fourth year, the aim of which is to prepare you for a PhD or a career in an industrial or academic research environment, with a focus on human and veterinary medicine, prevention and treatment.
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UCAS code: D303
With a focus on research methodology and critical analysis, the MSci Applied Bioveterinary Research course aims to prepare you for a PhD or a career in research, where you will strive to explore the development of new therapies for both human and veterinary diseases.
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UCAS code: C302
The MSci in Biological Sciences (Wildlife Health Science) is an undergraduate integrated Master’s degree, the aim of which is to give you a thorough foundation in biosciences, with further specialisation into aspects of biology required by wild animal professionals.
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UCAS code: RVET R84
An intercalated year allows Medicine and Veterinary Medicine students to gain an additional degree, focusing in a specific area relevant to their veterinary studies. Most students intercalate after their second or third year.
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UCAS code: DB16
An intercalated year allows veterinary students to gain an additional degree, focusing in a specific area relevant to their veterinary studies. Most students intercalate after their second or third year, and study a BSc course either at the RVC or at another university.
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Accreditation
Our Biological Science programmes are accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, with our MSci and placement year options gaining Advanced Accreditation. This recognition of excellence is highly regarded by employers and demonstrates our ability to develop your skills and expertise throughout your course. Not only does this mean you will gain an in-depth understanding of the subject, but that you will also have the opportunity to contribute to advancements in science through research projects.
Modules
COMPULSORY MODULES*:
- Biology of cells
- Inheritance, genetics and evolution
- Developmental biology
- The moving animal
- Integrated physiology I
- Integrated physiology II
- Problem definition and investigation
- Research project
*Please note that these are indicative modules
and may be subject to change. All modules
are 15 credits unless noted otherwise.
During your second and third year, you will have compulsory modules specific to your chosen Biological Sciences course pathway, as well as optional modules you can choose from.
The fourth year for our MSci courses is dedicated to large research projects at the RVC or during an industrial placement. This year will build on your knowledge gained from your first three years and develop your scientific and transferable skills further, making you ‘work ready’ and able to realise your full potential as soon as you embark on your chosen career path. You will be engaged in extended research projects and receive training in advanced research methodology and critical analysis, to prepare you for careers in academic, clinical, or industrial settings.
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