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Biological Sciences

Begin Your Career-Defining Education in 2026

Biological Sciences is becoming an increasingly important area of study due to worldwide problems such as climate change, food supply and food security. 

At Queen’s, you’ll do more than learn in the classroom, you’ll take your knowledge into the lab, the field, and the workplace. Our degrees embed practical skills, cutting-edge technologies, and real-world experience, so you graduate ready to make an impact. From tackling the challenges of climate change and global health to securing food supplies and protecting biodiversity, our graduates are shaping solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues.

Hands-on learning with state-of-the-art labs and fieldwork
Embedded work placements to build professional experience
Industry relevance through courses designed with society’s needs in mind

Degree Options:

  • Agricultural Sciences
  • Biochemistry
  • Biological Sciences
  • Environmental Management
  • Food Science & Nutrition
  • Marine Biology
  • Microbiology
  • Veterinary Biosciences
  • Zoology

 

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Study at the School of Biological Sciences

Ranked 1st in the UK for Agriculture, Veterinary and Food Science

(Times Higher Education REF 2021 Subject Rankings)
Video Image - Facilities video - img-id-1154851 YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rqMIv6iBLaE

Welcome to The School of Biological Sciences

Join us on one of our UK-leading undergraduate programmes located in our state-of-the-art building, providing world class facilities to help grow our life sciences sector, especially in areas such as agriculture/food science, food safety, disease/infection biology, diagnostics, waste management, ecosystems and the environment.

Group of students in Foyer
A Vibrant, World-Class Learning Environment

Queen’s School of Biological Sciences welcomes over 1,400 students into a dynamic and diverse academic community, learning alongside research-active faculty members who belong to the prestigious Institute for Global Food Security (IGFS). Nestled in the modern Chlorine Gardens building, the school offers state-of-the-art teaching and research facilities, from cutting-edge labs to welcoming social spaces, positioning you at the forefront of biological education.
Elephants in water
A Launchpad for Global Experiences

Real-world experience is key to building skills and a successful career. That’s why our undergraduate degrees offer the option of a placement year, giving students the chance to apply their learning, develop professional skills, and prepare for graduate employment. Over 250 students choose a placement each year, supported by our dedicated team and a wide network of local and international partners. Placements are assessed as part of the degree, ensuring they provide both practical experience and academic value.
Petri dish analysis
Community, Connection & Campus Life

Life at Queen’s extends well beyond the lecture theatre. The School of Biological Sciences fosters a tightly-knit community through a range of social events—from movie nights and quizzes to formal gatherings—designed to help you connect with classmates and faculty in a relaxed, engaging atmosphere. Whether you're unwinding after classes or forging lifelong friendships, the social calendar plays a vital role in making your time at Queen’s both rewarding and memorable.

Biological Sciences

The BSc Biological Sciences at Queen’s University Belfast is a dynamic, research-led degree exploring life from molecules to ecosystems. Students gain a deep understanding of biological diversity, genetics, ecology, physiology, and evolution, while developing practical lab and field skills. The course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, ensuring high academic and professional standards.

Course Details

Biochemistry

The BSc Biochemistry at Queen’s University Belfast explores the molecular foundations of life, applying chemical principles to understand biological processes, disease mechanisms, and drug action. This research-led degree equips students with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on lab experience, preparing them for careers in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and biomedical research. The course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, ensuring high academic and professional standards.

Course Details

Agricultural Sciences

The agricultural sector is undergoing major change, driven by evolving policies and growing consumer demand for quality, safety, and sustainability. Our Agricultural Science degree equips students with the scientific knowledge, practical skills, and strategic insight needed to succeed in this dynamic field. Combining core science with cutting-edge technology and best practices, the programme offers a future-focused education.

Course Details

Veterinary Biosciences

The BSc in Veterinary Biosciences is a research-led programme that lies at the cutting edge of animal health, welfare, disease, and biomedical science. Students gain a strong grounding in physiology, immunology, infectious disease, genetics, pharmacology and comparative pathology through lectures, labs, field studies and a final‐year research project. With options to focus on areas such as wildlife disease, public health, or animal welfare, and the chance to do work placements nationally or internationally, the course blends theory with hands-on experience to prepare graduates for careers in animal and veterinary sciences, research, conservation, public health, and beyond.

Course Details

Environmental Management

The BSc Environmental Management at Queen’s University Belfast explores the physical, social, economic, and cultural dimensions of managing our environment. Blending science, geography, and environmental planning, the course prepares students to address challenges in sustainability, conservation, and environmental protection. A key feature is a 16-week work placement in second year, offering real-world experience with organisations such as the National Trust and environmental consultancies. The degree is professionally accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).

Course Details

Food Science and Nutrition

The BSc Food Science and Nutrition at Queen’s University Belfast combines scientific understanding of food production with the study of nutrition across all life stages. The course explores food quality, safety, and innovation, alongside the impact of diet on health and disease. Students benefit from hands-on lab work, industry placements, and real-world projects. The programme is professionally accredited by the Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST), ensuring high standards and strong industry relevance.

Course Details

Marine Biology

The BSc Marine Biology at Queen’s University Belfast offers a research-led education in the study of life in the oceans, from molecular biology to entire ecosystems. Students explore critical global challenges such as climate change, overfishing, and pollution, while gaining hands-on experience through fieldwork at the Queen’s Marine Laboratory on Strangford Lough. The course is professionally accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, and students can also gain additional qualifications like Powerboat Level II and Survival at Sea, enhancing their employability in marine conservation, environmental consultancy, and beyond.

Course Details

Microbiology

The BSc Microbiology at Queen’s University Belfast explores the biology of microorganisms—bacteria, viruses, fungi, algae, and protozoa—and their vital roles in health, the environment, agriculture, and biotechnology. Students gain hands-on lab experience and develop skills in molecular biology, genetics, and microbial physiology. The course is underpinned by active research and strong industry links, with placement opportunities in organisations such as the NHS, Randox, and Almac. It is professionally accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, recognising its academic quality and relevance to employer needs.

Course Details

Zoology

The BSc Zoology at Queen’s University Belfast explores the biology, behaviour, and conservation of animals—from invertebrates to large marine mammals. Students gain a broad understanding of life processes and ecosystems, supported by hands-on fieldwork and lab experience. The course addresses global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and zoonotic diseases. With opportunities for international placements and research projects, students develop practical and transferable skills for careers in conservation, research, and environmental management. The programme is professionally accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, ensuring academic excellence and industry relevance.

Course Details

Hear from our students and alumni

Zoology Alumni Zachary Rose
Zachary Rose: Senior Ecologist and Head of Ecology, MCL Consulting

Zachary Rose, BSc Zoology and MSc Ecological Management and Conservation Biology graduate, discusses his career path to Senior Ecologist.

Work placement Matthew Munn
My Experience with the Marine Conservation Society of Seychelles

Marine Biology student, Matthew Munn, shares his experience of working with the Marine Conservation Society of Seychelles for 6 months as part of his year long placement.

Maitri Taylor Bio Sci Placement
Exploring Regulatory Affairs - My placement with G&L Healthcare Advisors

"Interesting, informative, and fun" - Maitri Tailor, biological sciences student, shares her placement experience.

 

Why Choose Queen's

Ranked in the Top 200 in the World

QS and THE World University Rankings 2026
Students walking with a Queen's branded bag
Amazing student experience

There are over 200 student-led clubs and societies on campus; while a £20 million sports investment has helped establish our reputation as one of the premier sporting universities in the UK and Ireland.
Computer Science Stairwell
World class campus

From the state of the art McClay Library, to the cutting edge Computer Science Building, and purpose built School of Law, including a Moot Court Room, a £700m investment in our teaching facilities have transformed our historic campus into an innovative learning environment. 
Belfast: Student City

There’s always something happening in Belfast, whether you’re visiting one of many festivals and cultural events, having the craic on a buzzing night out or exploring the hills and countryside that surround the city.
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QUEEN'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS

Queen’s offers over £1.5m scholarships to International Students towards tuition fees. These range between £2,000 and £3,000 off first year tuition fees, depending on programme of study. Applicants are automatically assessed following receipt of an offer. Undergraduate scholarships include discounts for families attending Queen's, Early bird rewards, loyalty scholarships and more. We also have a range of awards and scholarships for students from specific countries.

International Scholarships

QUEEN'S GB SCHOLARSHIPS

Our exclusive GB Scholarship is available for students commencing their undergraduate degree at Queen’s in September 2026. This award is available to students from England, Scotland, Wales, Isle of Man, and the Channel Islands. Applying to university can be a stressful time so we have recently updated our requirements for the GB Scholarship 2026 entry to remove grade requirements to give some certainty to eligible students applying to Queen’s.

GB Scholarship

NEXT STEPS

START YOUR JOURNEY TO QUEEN'S TODAY

1. Register your Interest

Leave your details using the registration form above to receive more information.

2. Get in Touch

Get in contact directly by emailing: askmhls@qub.ac.uk

3. Start your Application

To begin your application, visit the UCAS website

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