BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences

BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences explores the fundamentals of modern environmental, plant, animal, and cell biology. You’ll experience a multidisciplinary teaching and learning approach, integrating concepts from biology, chemistry, and mathematics to help you develop a holistic understanding of living systems. You’ll learn the principles in all the main areas of biological sciences, including: EcologyZoology Plant Science Microbiology Biochemistry Molecular biology  Biology has a significant impact on our daily lives. By studying biological sciences, you will gain an understanding of the complexities of biology, be able to apply your knowledge to other related disciplines, and address challenges such as: Climate change Biodiversity loss Emerging diseases Food science developmentSustainable resource management You’ll develop your critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving skills. You’ll learn about scientific concepts, evaluate research findings, and present innovative solutions to complex biological problems using a range of media. You’ll work independently and collaboratively, and engage in group projects, scientific discussions, and research initiatives. Your studies are led by internationally excellent staff that provide globally connected learning and the opportunity to study from other Heriot-Watt campuses through Go Global.

Hands-on laboratory work and practical field research is prominent throughout the degree, and you’ll have access to our state-of-the-art labs where you can put theoretical knowledge into practice. This will help you gain valuable skills in interpreting and analysing scientific data. Fieldwork also provides an opportunity for you to engage with real-world ecosystems.  

As well as building your skills in biological sciences, you’ll develop sought after soft skills, such as problem-solving, communication, and practical presentation skills. You’ll also understand the vital role of a biologist across a range of professional fields including research and development, quality assurance, environmental monitoring, and public health. 

This industry-focused degree will ensure you have the understanding, knowledge, skills, and personal qualities required to undertake a wide range of careers within the scientific or other employment sectors.Biology at Heriot-Watt University is part of the School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society which is one of the United Kingdom’s leading institutions for multidisciplinary research and teaching in areas critical to economic development and societal equity. Our teams work closely and have links with industry, and experts are regularly invited as guest lecturers in most courses and advise on student research projects. The Institute of Life and Earth Sciences is well known for its strong research focus in various areas of biological sciences. Research activities encompass both fundamental and applied research, addressing critical issues in the field and making significant contributions to scientific knowledge. This degree is aligned with our research objectives to advance our understanding of the natural world, address global challenges, and contribute to scientific advancements that benefit society.

Highers AABB (including a science subject) A-Levels BBC - ABB (including a Maths or Science subject) Int. Baccalaureate 27 points to include a science subject at Higher Level 5 BTEC DMM (in relevant subject) HNC C in graded unit (in relevant HNC) As our programmes are taught and assessed in English, applicants must be able to prove their level of English language ability as part of the application process. This should be shown through one of the following means - You are from a majority English speaking country or have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree from a majority English speaking country as defined by UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI). You have successfully completed a degree from a UK University within the last two academic years where all study has taken place in the UK or at an overseas campus in a non-majority English speaking country as defined by the UKVI, then we will consider this on a case-by-case basis. Our decision will be made on a variety of factors including length of study, level of study, subject relevance, nature of degree and time since completion (no longer than two academic years). You have passed one of the following English Language Tests within the last 2 years at the levels indicated (we will need to verify the results of the test and as such you will need to upload your original certificate as part of the application process). IELTS Academic 6.0 with no score lower than 5.5. TOEFL iBT 79 (including reading 18, listening 17, speaking 20, and writing 21).