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
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
Dr Connor Bamford studied a BSc in the School of Biological Sciences and now is a Research Fellow in Virology and Antiviral Immunity at the Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine. He is currently working on research which investigates already licenced therapies to be used in the clinic to block COVID-19 and any damaging inflammation.
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.
"Interesting, informative, and fun" - Maitri Tailor, biological sciences student, shares her placement experience.
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.
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.
Leave your details using the registration form above to receive more information.
Get in contact directly by emailing: askmhls@qub.ac.uk
To begin your application, visit the UCAS website
