FD|Undergraduate
Biological Sciences
Entry year
Academic Year 2023/24
Academic Year 2023/24
Entry requirements
CC
CC
Duration
2 years (Full Time)
2 years (Full Time)
UCAS code
C101
C101
This programme aims to provide students with knowledge and understanding of scientific methods of enquiry and theoretical principles of biological sciences, including, where appropriate, the application of those principles in an employment context.
Students studying the FdSci in Biological Sciences will develop understanding of:
1. the relevance of biological sciences in the current economic environment
2. the hierarchical nature of biological sciences ranging from molecular level to whole organism and species interactions
3. the need for competence and dexterity in contemporary biological practical techniques and cognate disciplines
4. a professional approach to work, study and lifelong learning
This course is taught at Belfast Metropolitan College, Belfast.
Biological Sciences Degree highlights
This course is taught at Belfast Metropolitan College.
Professional Accreditations
- Graduates of the FdSci are eligible for Registered Science Technician (RSciTech) status, conferred by the Science Council and with appropriate CPD would be eligible for Registered Scientist status (RSci). The Society of Biology also confers varying levels of membership depending on qualifications and experience.
Career Development
- The FdSc is a new programme with the first graduates expected in July 2018. Our graduates in similar programmes are employed in organisations working within environmental monitoring and
management, water quality management, animal welfare, academic research, the agri-food industries, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, teaching and education, and science communication.
These employment areas have always been important, but have now become increasingly so due to worldwide problems such as climate change, food supply and security, biodiversity loss and global health issues.
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Course content
Course Structure
| Work Placement | Between Year 1 and Year 2 there is a compulsory work-based placement for a duration of ten weeks. This will provide students with opportunities to apply the knowledge and skills acquired from Year 1 content; to develop important employability skills required for the employment market; and to benefit from being exposed to biological science practices. |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | • Fundamentals of Science • Mathematical and Study Skills in Science • General Chemistry • Biochemistry • Biology |
| Year 2 | • Biological Diversity and Evolution • Bioscience Practical and Analytical Skills • Food Biochemistry • Ecology and Environmental Biology • Molecular Biology and Genetics • Microbiology In addition to subject knowledge, modules aim to develop skills in critical, independent thought and management and decision making. Year 2 modules include applied topics which will allow students the opportunity to consider progression into a range of Honours degree courses. The modules introduce a wide range of up-to-date biological techniques including genetic manipulation, electron microscopy, physiological studies of living organisms and modern approaches to ecology and evolution. |
Learning and Teaching
During the FD Biological Sciences, we provide a range of learning experiences to enable students to engage with subject experts and develop attributes and perspectives that will equip you for life and work.
Students can make use of innovative technologies and a world class library that enhances their development as independent, lifelong learners.
- Examples of the opportunities provided for learning on this course are:
E-Learning technologies, lectures, practical classes, self-directed study, and work placement.
Assessment
The way in which you are assessed will vary according to the learning outcomes of each module. Details of how each module is assessed are shown in the Student Handbook which is provided to all students during their first year induction, and is available on our School website (http://www.qub.ac.uk/schools/SchoolofBiologicalSciences/).
- Most modules are assessed through a combination of coursework and end of semester examinations.
Feedback
As students progress through the FdSc in Biological Sciences they will receive general and specific feedback about their work from a variety of sources including lecturers, module co-ordinators, placement supervisors, personal tutors, advisers of study and peers. Students are expected to engage with reflective practice and to use this approach to improve the quality of their work.
- Feedback may be provided in a variety of forms including: formal written comments, face to face comments, placement employer comments or references, online or emailed feedback, pre-submission advice, feedback and outcomes from practical classes, and others.
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Overview
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Modules
Modules
The information below is intended as an example only, featuring module details for the current year of study (2022/23). Modules are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to future changes – revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year.
- Year 1
Core Modules
Fundamentals of Science (20 credits)Fundamentals of Science
Overview
Fundamentals of Biology: The hierarchical nature of biological systems; akaryotes, prokaryotes and eukaryotes; cellular ultrastructure; structure and function of organelles; membrane structure and transport across membranes; cell and tissue specialisation; cell cycle.
Fundamentals of Chemistry: Brief history of the development of chemistry; the development of models of the atom (Thompson to Schrödinger); organisation of elements in the Periodic table; atomic number and relative atomic mass; existence of isotopes (explanation for isotopes of the same element having identical chemical reactivity); stability and the octet rule; covalent bonding; ionic bonding; the amount of substance (Avogadro’s number and the mole); determining empirical formulae.
Fundamentals of Physics: The division of physics into classical (Newtonian) physics and quantum physics; Newton’s laws of motion; kinetic and potential energy; the conservation of energy; waves (transverse and longitudinal); uniform circular motion and simple harmonic motion; Coulomb’s law.Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the module the student will have gained an understanding of the foundations of biology, chemistry and physics. The student should have learned about biological systems, quantitative relationships in chemistry and classical physics. They will have acquired/developed a range of basic laboratory skills and experience of preparing laboratory reports. The student will learn to present and evaluate quantitative data
Skills
Subject specific skills will have been acquired by the students. In addition, students will have an opportunity to develop verbal presentation and reasoning skills through face-to-face marking of practical reports and tutorials.
Coursework
10%
Examination
60%
Practical
30%
Stage/Level
1
Credits
20
Module Code
FDR1101
Teaching Period
Autumn
Duration
15 weeks
Work Based Learning 1 (20 credits)Work Based Learning 1
Overview
Personal and Professional Skills: Professional/career planning; identifying your skill set and interests; jobs vs. career; the application process; CVs (types of CV; features of a good CV); application forms; supporting statements; letters of application; interviews (planning for an interview; body language; coping with ‘nerves’; after the interview); obtaining feedback.
The Workplace: Types of industry in Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, the UK and Europe; voluntary and paid work experience; health & safety at work (e.g. COSHH); first aid at work; quality assurance and quality control
Continuing Professional Development: Professional bodies (RSC, IoB, Science Council, ASE, the Royal Colleges); importance of maintaining a CPD record; options after the FdSc; long-term career options (postgraduate training).
Negotiating a Work Placement: Taking responsibility for the work placement; identifying expectations (College and workplace); undertaking the work placement; completion of appropriate evidence.Learning Outcomes
The Work-based learning module is a key element on the Foundation Degree. On completion of this module learners will be able to identify key stages in the development of their career and have evaluated their skills.
Skills
Skills required in the development of career action plans and in the management of the students’ own responsibilities. To develop students’ understanding of the skills required in the science sector. To improve the students’ interpersonal and social skills and to contribute towards personal development. Demonstrate successful application in the workplace of the range of knowledge and skills learnt throughout the programme. Work Placement should provide some guidance for students to decide which discipline to pursue within the industry.
Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Stage/Level
1
Credits
20
Module Code
FDR1301
Teaching Period
Autumn
Duration
15 weeks
General Chemistry (20 credits)General Chemistry
Overview
Inorganic Chemistry: Experimental evidence for the wave-nature of the electron and wave-particle duality; covalent bonding (constructive vs. destructive interference and basic molecular orbital theory; orbital transitions and spectroscopy); ionic bonding (polarisation; Fajan’s rules; lattice energy); metallic bonding (delocalisation; fcp, ccp and hcp structures); electronic structure and periodicity; role of inorganic species in biological processes.
Physical Chemistry: Gas laws (Boyle’s law, Charles’s law and Avogadro’s law; ideal gases and the ideal gas law; relevance to respiratory physiology); thermochemistry (calorimetry; enthalpy change; Hess’s law; average bond energies); thermodynamics (S and G); chemical equilibrium (Kp and Kc; Le Chatellier’s principle; the van’t Hoff isochore); acid-base chemistry (definitions; pKa and buffers); chemical kinetics (simple rate laws; the Arrhenius equation; collision theory and transition-state theory).
Organic Chemistry: Approaches to understanding bonding in organic chemistry (tetravalency of carbon; evidence for delocalisation); functional groups (hydrocarbons; carbonyls and derivatives; amines, amides and imines; aromatics); mechanisms in bioorganic chemistry (pyridoxal phosphate and Schiff base formation; peptide bonds and nucleophilic addition; biosynthesis of -terpineol by electrophilic addition; alcohol dehydrogenase and oxidation).Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the module the student will be able to relate their knowledge of atomic structure to chemical bonding and periodicity. They will be able to perform basic calculations in physical chemistry and be able to apply the principles of organic chemistry to unfamiliar reactions.
Skills
Subject specific skills will have been acquired by the students. In addition, students will have acquired skills in experimental reporting in the correct style (to industry/academic standard).
Coursework
10%
Examination
60%
Practical
30%
Stage/Level
1
Credits
20
Module Code
FDR1201
Teaching Period
Spring
Duration
15 weeks
Introductory Mathematics and Study Skills (20 credits)Introductory Mathematics and Study Skills
Overview
Mathematical Skills: Numerical procedures (standard form; laws of indices; rules of arithmetic); logarithms; graphical techniques (axes; choosing scales; log-scales); basic algebra (transposing equations; algebraic fractions; binomial expansion; quadratic equations; simultaneous equations).
Statistical Skills: Classification of error; handling error; accuracy, precision and repeatability; descriptive statistics (mean, mode, median; standard deviation, variance and coefficient of variation); the normal distribution (mean; standard error of the mean; confidence limits); statistical tests (parametric vs. non-parametric; t-tests, chi-squared, Mann-Whitney U-test, F-test, Z-test; one-tailed vs. two-tailed; significant levels; power of the test); laboratory statistics (Grubb’s test; delta charts; overall error).
Study Skills: The academic environment (effective note taking; preparing for seminars/tutorials; dealing with peers and members of academic staff; prioritising workload); written communication (scientific reports vs. essays; dissertations; Harvard referencing); oral communication (planning a presentation; use of PowerPoint and other presentation software; handling questions); poster presentations; screen casting (podcasts; vodcasts; YouTube); team working (ability to communicate effectively at all levels, initiative, self-discipline, reliability, creativity, problem solving)Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the module the student will have developed the ability to apply and use numerical skills and techniques to interpret data, including the use of ICT in the laboratory. They will have observed the use of data analysis in industrial settings and reflect on their ability to perform similar tasks. They will have gained direct experience of a wide variety of academic skills and be able to critically evaluate their own progress.
Skills
Subject specific skills will have been acquired by the students. In addition, students will have acquired skills in experimental reporting in the correct style (to industry/academic standard).
Coursework
70%
Examination
30%
Practical
0%
Stage/Level
1
Credits
20
Module Code
FDR1102
Teaching Period
Autumn
Duration
15 weeks
Biochemistry % Cell Biology (20 credits)Biochemistry % Cell Biology
Overview
Macromolecules: Nucleotides and nucleic acids: purines and pyrimidines; ribose and deoxyribose; the Watson-Crick model and role of hydrogen bonding. Amino acids and proteins: functional group properties (acid/base; isoelectric point); isomerism in amino acids; formation of amide (peptide) bonds; role of hydrogen bonding, disulphide bridges and intermolecular forces in primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary structure; monosaccharides, disaccharides and polysaccharides: classification of sugars; structural formulae; functional group properties; isomerism in simple sugars; representative polysaccharides. Fatty acids and lipids: saturated and unsaturated fatty acids; essential and non-essential fatty acids; isomerism in fatty acids; formation of esters (regarded as triacylglycerols); the iodine and saponification value of fats; formation of phospholipids; role of phospholipids in membrane structure.
Metabolism: Overview of metabolism; the idea of biochemical energetics; obtaining nutrients (absorption and transport systems); metabolism of sugars (glycolysis, TCA cycle and electron transport chain; gluconeogenesis; glycogenogensis and glycogenolysis; glyoxylate pathway in plants); metabolism of even and odd-chain fatty acids; the steroid pathway; formation of ketone bodies; control mechanisms (PFK 1) and the integration of metabolism.
Enzymes: Idea of biological catalysis (activation energy); structure-function relationships (active site; substrate recognition; strain and specify; allosteric effects); models of enzyme action; modes of inhibition; enzyme kinetics (Michaelis-Menten, Lineweaver-Burk); key characteristics of enzymes (Km, Vmax; kcat); sensitivity to pH and temperature.
Cognate Practical Skills: Separation methods: TLC of amino acids; gel electrophoresis of proteins; SEC of polysaccharides; centrifugation (cell lysates); quantification methods: spectrophotometry of DNA (UV) and sugars (visible); enzyme kinetics; investigation of alcohol dehydrogenaseLearning Outcomes
Upon completion of the module the student will be able to describe the major classes of biological molecule and their metabolism. They will have gained practical experience of analysing enzyme kinetic data and of using traditional wet techniques and instrumental analysis
Skills
Subject specific skills will have been acquired by the students. In addition, students will have acquired skills in experimental reporting in the correct style (to industry/academic standard).
Coursework
10%
Examination
60%
Practical
30%
Stage/Level
1
Credits
20
Module Code
FDR1202
Teaching Period
Spring
Duration
15 weeks
General Biology 1 (20 credits)General Biology 1
Overview
Organ systems in plants and animals: General structure and function of major animal body systems Morphology of stems, roots, leaves, flowers and fruits; Anatomy and function of stems, roots and leaves Secondary thickening in woody plants.
Principles of exchange and transport in plants and animals: As animals become larger and more active, transport systems become essential to supply nutrients to and remove waste from individual cells. Structure and function of cardiovascular and respiratory systems in a range of animals. The gas exchange surface in the lungs is used to exemplify the properties and functions of exchange surfaces in living things. The co-ordinated activity of the heart and circulatory system. As plants become larger and more complex, transport systems become essential to supply nutrients to and remove waste from individual cells. The supply of nutrients from the soil relies upon the flow of water through a vascular system, as does the movement of the products of photosynthesis
Physiology – control and coordination; homeostasis: Organisms use chemical and electrical systems to monitor and respond to any deviation from a steady state. Principles of homeostasis in terms of receptors, effectors and negative feedback; negative feedback, positive feedback. Neuronal and hormonal systems as examples of cell signalling; Plant responses to environmental changes co-ordinated by hormones, some of which are commercially importantLearning Outcomes
Upon completion of the module the student will be able to describe the organ systems found in plants and animals and be able to relate structure to function. They will also be able to analyse data relating to physiological processes.
Skills
Subject specific skills will have been acquired by the students. In addition, students will have acquired skills in experimental reporting in the correct style (to industry/academic standard).
Coursework
10%
Examination
60%
Practical
30%
Stage/Level
1
Credits
20
Module Code
FDR1203
Teaching Period
Spring
Duration
15 weeks
- Year 2
Core Modules
Microbiology (20 credits)Microbiology
Overview
The structure and function of microorganisms, to include protists, bacteria, fungi and viruses. Microbial cell morphology, structure and function of cellular components. Viral structure to include bacteriophages. Growth, reproduction and enumeration. Aspects of microbial genetics and the effects of physical and chemical environments on microbial growth.
Role of microroganisms in natural habitats and their importance in nutrient cycling. Application of microbial biotechnology, e.g. biopharma, bioremediation, biofuels, industrial microbiology, phage technology.
Pathogenicity and key medically important microorganisms in humans and animals. Taxonomic classification of bacteria; gram positive and gram negative, cocci, bacilli; other bacteria e.g. spirochactales, chlamydiacae, mycoplasmataceae. Classification of
Isolation, identification and control of microorganisms
Isolation and cultivation of microorganisms aseptically. Enumeration of microbial cell populations calculation of growth rates, microscopic and biochemical analyses. Practical techniques to include, dilution plating; direct count, gram staining, maintenance of cultures. Introduction to batch and continuous cultures. Production of data to illustrate lag, log, stationary and death phases. Factors affecting population growth and yield of product.Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the module the student will be able to describe the relationship between the structure of microorganisms and their role in the environment, including their biotechnological potential. They will also be able to relate theory to medical microbiology.
Skills
Subject specific skills will have been acquired by the students. In addition, students will have developed laboratory skills related to microbiology and laboratory exercise planning and organisation.
Coursework
0%
Examination
60%
Practical
40%
Stage/Level
2
Credits
20
Module Code
FDR2203
Teaching Period
Spring
Duration
15 weeks
Work Based Learning (20 credits)Work Based Learning
Overview
1 Work effectively: Accepted rules of conduct; legislative and regulatory requirements relevant; promote & maintain health and safety; methods of communicating effectively in situations 2 Services &/or products which organisation provides 3 Potential &/or actual improvements - identify in business/organisational operations - justify potential &/or actual improvements - importance of continuous improvement at all levels 4 Own performance - importance of initiative, self-direction - meeting changing needs & situations - reflection on attitudes & relationships - recognition of knowledge, skills & contribution - target setting for future development - reasons why performance should be reviewed.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of the module, students will be able to: 1. Plan and demonstrate the ability to work effectively 2. Explain the purpose of the business /organisation 3. Evaluate and describe potential and/or actual improvements in the business/organisational operations 4. Develop and evaluate own performance.
Skills
Subject specific S1. Apply knowledge gained to understand legislative requirements relevant to working practices and Health & Safety S2. Understand services and products provided by business as well as staffing structures and roles Cognitive C1. Understand services and products provided by the business as well as business and staffing structures and roles C2. Application of knowledge to assess opportunities for business improvement Transferable T1. Communication with others in the working environment; orally and in writing T2. Application of good working practice T3. Time and self-management skills T4. ICT skills and record keeping.
Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Stage/Level
2
Credits
20
Module Code
FDR2014
Teaching Period
Autumn
Duration
15 weeks
Genetics & Molecular Biology (20 credits)Genetics & Molecular Biology
Overview
To Be Confirmed
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the module the student will be able to report on the biochemical basis of genetics and analyse key genetic data. They will be able to carry out practical work in molecular biology.
Skills
Subject specific skills will have been acquired by the students. In addition, students will have acquired skills in microbiology and genetic techniques and computational analysis of genome data.
Coursework
10%
Examination
60%
Practical
30%
Stage/Level
2
Credits
20
Module Code
FDR2202
Teaching Period
Autumn
Duration
15 weeks
Ecology (20 credits)Ecology
Overview
Interactions between the environment and living organisms. The role of biotic and abiotic factors in determining distribution and abundance of organisms. Organisation into populations, communities, habitats, ecosystems, and biomes.
The composition of ecosystems; lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere and biosphere. Nutrient cycling and transfer. Producers, consumers, decomposers, trophic levels and competition processes. Food webs, inter and intraspecific interactions and energy transfer. Main features of terrestrial e.g. woodland, heathland and aquatic habitats, e.g. marine, freshwater. Biodiversity on local, regional and global scales, its measurement, monitoring and protection.
Sources and effects of agricultural and industrial pollutants in land, water and air. Transfer of pollutants. Environmental monitoring and amelioration of polluted ecosystems. Importance of indicator species in identification of ecosystem health.
Techniques in ecology; hypotheses and objectives; planning experiments; sampling and replication eg quadrants, transects, abundance scales, mark-release recapture techniques; use and interpretation of statistics. Data analysis: types of data collected eg nominal, ordinal, interval; non-parametric statistical tests eg Spearman rank correlation coefficient, Chi-square, Wilcoxon, Mann-Whitney.Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the module the student will be able to evaluate the relationship between the environment and living organisms. They will also be apply statistical skills developed in earlier modules to ecological data.
Skills
Demonstrate competence in a broad range of appropriate practical techniques and skills relevant to the Biosciences
Demonstrate the ability to place their practical work in context and to suggest lines of further investigation
Demonstrate well developed strategies for updating , maintaining and enhancing their knowledge of the biosciences
Demonstrate the ability to communicate scientific ideas in a range of formats, including formal scientific reportingCoursework
10%
Examination
60%
Practical
30%
Stage/Level
2
Credits
20
Module Code
FDR2201
Teaching Period
Spring
Duration
15 weeks
Biological Diversity and Evolution (20 credits)Biological Diversity and Evolution
Overview
Theory of the origin and evolution of life through natural selection including speciation. Natural selection as the underlying mechanism of evolution will be explained and linked to genetic inheritance. Microevolution, macroevolution and speciation will be covered using contemporary and fossil record examples, and will reinforce the diversity elements of the module. Modern advances in evolution and natural selection will also be examined.
Diagnostic features of the major taxa of the animal kingdom through consideration of radial symmetry, bilateral symmetry, body layers, coelomic cavity, body systems, physiological systems and biochemical features e.g. Porifera, Cnidaria, Platyhelminthes, Nematoda, Mollusca, Annelida, Arthropoda, Echinodermata, Chordata.
Diagnostic features of the major taxa of the plant kingdom: the divisions of the plant kingdom and representatives of significant classes and orders thereof. Including coverage of e.g. Rhodophyta Phaeophyta Chlorophyta, Bryophyta, Pteridophytes Gymnosperma, Angiosperma.
Observation and representation of specimens: biological drawings, annotation of taxonomic features and nomenclature, use of keys and learning materials to identify and classify specimens.Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the module the student will be able to evaluate competing theories of evolution and describe the form, function and biology of a diversity of living organisms. They will be able to apply taxonomic principles to a wide variety of organisms.
Skills
Subject specific skills will have been acquired by the students. In addition, students will have acquired skills in microscopy and dissection.
Coursework
5%
Examination
70%
Practical
25%
Stage/Level
2
Credits
20
Module Code
FDR2101
Teaching Period
Autumn
Duration
15 weeks
Optional Modules
Environmental Science and Conservation (20 credits)Environmental Science and Conservation
Overview
None
Coursework
30%
Examination
60%
Practical
10%
Stage/Level
2
Credits
20
Module Code
FDR2205
Teaching Period
Spring
Duration
15 weeks
Chemistry of Organic Molecules (20 credits)Chemistry of Organic Molecules
Overview
None
Coursework
30%
Examination
60%
Practical
10%
Stage/Level
2
Credits
20
Module Code
FDR2204
Teaching Period
Spring
Duration
15 weeks
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Entry Requirements
Entrance requirements
| A level requirements CC including Biology or Double Award Applied Science + GCSE Chemistry grade C/4 or GCSE Double Award Science grades CC/4,4 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4. Note: It would be an advantage to have studied Chemistry beyond GCSE level. |
| Irish leaving certificate requirements H3H4H4H4H4/H3H3H4H4 including grade H3 in Biology and H4 in Chemistry + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade O4 in Mathematics. If not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level Chemistry grade O4 would be considered. |
| Access Course Successful completion of Access Course with an average of 65%. A relevant Access Course will normally include a minimum of 60 credits at Level 3 (preferably 80 credits) in appropriate Biology and Chemistry modules (eg: two Biology modules + one Chemistry; one Biology Module, one Microbiology module and one Chemistry module) + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4 or equivalent in Access Course. |
| International Baccalaureate Diploma 26-27 points overall including 5,4,4 at Higher Level including Biology + GCSE Chemistry grade C/4 or GCSE Double Award Science grades CC/4,4 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4 If not offered at Higher Level/GCSE then Standard Level grade 4 in Chemistry, English and Mathematics would be accepted. |
| BTEC Level 3 Extended/National Extended Diploma QCF Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science (180 credits) with overall grade MMP (a minimum grade may be stipulated in relevant units) + GCSE Biology and Chemistry grade C/4 or GCSE Double Award Science grades CC/4,4 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4. RQF Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma in Applied Science (1080 Guided Learning Hours (GLH)), with overall grade MMP (a minimum grade may be stipulated in relevant units) + GCSE Biology and Chemistry grade C/4 or GCSE Double Award Science grades CC/4,4 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4. |
Selection Criteria
In addition, to the entrance requirements above, it is essential that you read our guidance below on 'How we choose our students' prior to submitting your UCAS application.
Applications are dealt with centrally by the Admissions and Access Service rather than by School of Biological Sciences. Once your on-line form has been processed by UCAS and forwarded to Queen's, an acknowledgement is normally sent within two weeks of its receipt at the University.
Selection is on the basis of the information provided on your UCAS form. Decisions are made on an ongoing basis and will be notified to you via UCAS.
A minimum of five GCSE passes at grade C/4 or better (to include English Language and Mathematics) would be required, though this profile may change from year to year depending on the demand for places. The Selector also checks that any specific entry requirements in terms of GCSE and/or A-level subjects can be fulfilled.
Offers are normally made on the basis of two A-levels. The offer for repeat applicants is the same standard as for first time applicants. Grades may be held from the previous year.
Applicants offering other qualifications will also be considered. The same GCSE profile is usually expected of those applicants offering other qualifications.
The information provided in the personal statement section and the academic reference together with predicted grades are noted but, in the case of the Foundation Degree in Biological Sciences, these are not the final deciding factors in whether or not a conditional offer can be made. However, they may be reconsidered in a tie break situation in August.
A-level General Studies and A-level Critical Thinking would not normally be considered. However, the grade achieved could be taken into account if necessary in August/September.
Applicants are not normally asked to attend for interview.
If you are made an offer then you may be invited to a Faculty/School Visit Day, which is usually held in the second semester. This will allow you the opportunity to visit the University and to find out more about the degree programme of your choice and the facilities on offer. It also gives you a flavour of the academic and social life at Queen's.
If you cannot find the information you need here, please contact the University Admissions and Access Service (admissions@qub.ac.uk), giving full details of your qualifications and educational background.
International Students
Our country/region pages include information on entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, student profiles, upcoming events and contacts for your country/region. Use the dropdown list below for specific information for your country/region.
English Language Requirements
An IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each test component or an equivalent acceptable qualification, details of which are available at: http://go.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs
If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.
- Academic English: an intensive English language and study skills course for successful university study at degree level
- Pre-sessional English: a short intensive academic English course for students starting a degree programme at Queen's University Belfast and who need to improve their English.
International Students - Foundation and International Year One Programmes
INTO Queen's offers a range of academic and English language programmes to help prepare international students for undergraduate study at Queen's University. You will learn from experienced teachers in a dedicated international study centre on campus, and will have full access to the University's world-class facilities.
These programmes are designed for international students who do not meet the required academic and English language requirements for direct entry.
INTO - English Language Course(QSIS ELEMENT IS EMPTY)
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Careers
Career Prospects
Introduction
Our graduates are employed in organisations working within environmental monitoring and management, water quality management, animal welfare, academic research, the agri-food industries, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, teaching and education, and science communication.
These employment areas have always been important, but have now become increasingly so due to worldwide problems such as climate change, food supply and security, biodiversity loss and global health issues.
Successful students will be eligible to apply for Year 2 (Stage 2) of the BSc (Hons) in Biological Sciences provided they meet certain academic criteria. Students who have successfully completed the Foundation Degree may also have the opportunity to study different (full) degrees.
Additional Awards Gained(QSIS ELEMENT IS EMPTY)
Prizes and Awards(QSIS ELEMENT IS EMPTY)
Degree plus award for extra-curricular skills
In addition to your degree programme, at Queen's you can have the opportunity to gain wider life, academic and employability skills. For example, placements, voluntary work, clubs, societies, sports and lots more. So not only do you graduate with a degree recognised from a world leading university, you'll have practical national and international experience plus a wider exposure to life overall. We call this Degree Plus. It's what makes studying at Queen's University Belfast special.
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Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
| Northern Ireland (NI) 1 | £TBC |
| Republic of Ireland (ROI) 2 | £TBC |
| England, Scotland or Wales (GB) 1 | £6,167 |
| EU Other 3 | £12,533 |
| International | £12,533 |
1 EU citizens in the EU Settlement Scheme, with settled status, will be charged the NI or GB tuition fee based on where they are ordinarily resident. Students who are ROI nationals resident in GB will be charged the GB fee.
2 EU students who are ROI nationals resident in ROI are eligible for NI tuition fees.
3 EU Other students (excludes Republic of Ireland nationals living in GB, NI or ROI) are charged tuition fees in line with international fees.
All tuition fees quoted relate to a single year of study and will be subject to an annual inflationary increase, unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Tuition fee rates are calculated based on a student’s tuition fee status and generally increase annually by inflation. How tuition fees are determined is set out in the Student Finance Framework.
Additional course costs
All Students
Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies.
Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from any Queen's library.
If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the University Library, prices per text can range from £30 to £100. A programme may have up to 6 modules per year, each with a recommended text.
Students should also budget between £30 to £75 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges.
Students undertaking a period of work placement or study abroad, as either a compulsory or optional part of their programme, should be aware that they will have to fund additional travel and living costs.
If a final year includes a major project or dissertation, there may be costs associated with transport, accommodation and/or materials. The amount will depend on the project chosen. There may also be additional costs for printing and binding.
Students may wish to consider purchasing an electronic device; costs will vary depending on the specification of the model chosen.
There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.
Biological Sciences costs
There are no specific additional course costs associated with this programme.
How do I fund my study?
There are different tuition fee and student financial support arrangements for students from Northern Ireland, those from England, Scotland and Wales (Great Britain), and those from the rest of the European Union.
Information on funding options and financial assistance for undergraduate students is available at www.qub.ac.uk/Study/Undergraduate/Fees-and-scholarships/.
Scholarships
Each year, we offer a range of scholarships and prizes for new students. Information on scholarships available.
International Scholarships
Information on scholarships for international students, is available at www.qub.ac.uk/Study/international-students/international-scholarships/.
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How and when to Apply
How to Apply
Application for admission to full-time undergraduate and sandwich courses at the University should normally be made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Full information can be obtained from the UCAS website at: www.ucas.com/students.
When to Apply
UCAS will start processing applications for entry in autumn 2023 from 1 September 2022.
Advisory closing date: 25 January 2023 (18:00). This is the 'equal consideration' deadline for this course.
Applications from UK and EU (Republic of Ireland) students after this date are, in practice, considered by Queen’s for entry to this course throughout the remainder of the application cycle (30 June 2023) subject to the availability of places.
Applications from International and EU (Other) students are normally considered by Queen’s for entry to this course until 30 June 2023. If you apply for 2023 entry after this deadline, you will automatically be entered into Clearing.
Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as is consistent with having made a careful and considered choice of institutions and courses.
The Institution code name for Queen's is QBELF and the institution code is Q75.
Further information on applying to study at Queen's is available at: www.qub.ac.uk/Study/Undergraduate/How-to-apply/
Terms and Conditions
The terms and conditions that apply when you accept an offer of a place at the University on a taught programme of study. Queen's University Belfast Terms and Conditions.
Additional Information for International (non-EU) Students
- Applying through UCAS
Most students make their applications through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) for full-time undergraduate degree programmes at Queen's. The UCAS application deadline for international students is 30 June 2023. - Applying direct
The Direct Entry Application form is to be used by international applicants who wish to apply directly, and only, to Queen's or who have been asked to provide information in advance of submitting a formal UCAS application. Find out more. - Applying through agents and partners
The University’s in-country representatives can assist you to submit a UCAS application or a direct application. Please consult the Agent List to find an agent in your country who will help you with your application to Queen’s University.
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