Undergraduate Courses
Welcome to the School of Biological Sciences
Nurturing Excellence in Biological Education and Career Prospects
Welcome to The School of Biological Sciences, home to a vibrant and diverse student community of over 800 Undergraduate Students. We offer eight UG degree pathways, from Agriculture through to Zoology!
- Agricultural Technology
- Biochemistry
- Biological Sciences
- Environmental Management
- Food Science and Nutrition
- Marine Biology
- Microbiology
- Zoology
Our courses are taught by World leading academics who are part of the Institute for Global Food Security based in our School at Queen’s and our degrees are accredited by leading professional bodies such as the Royal Society of Biology, the Institute for Food Science and Technology UK and RICs.
Our new School Building in Chlorine Gardens provides a high tech learning environment and allows us to create a unique learning experience for our Students and our UG courses are recognized in UK rankings, based on both student satisfaction and our research excellence.
We offer exciting placement opportunities for our Students and are delighted to be recognized as #1 University in the UK for Biological Sciences graduate prospects (The Times Good University Guide 2022).
Our courses have a practical learning by doing approach and we also help our Students to enhance their employability skills such as creativity, problem solving, communication and teamwork.
On the social side of things, our UG Students run their own societies, such as QUB Foodies, QUB Bioscience and QUB Marine Biology and Zoology Societies. Each year they host society visits, seminars and the highlight of the social calendar, the society formals.
The agricultural industry is undergoing an unprecedented period of change. Traditional reliance on production is being challenged through changes in government policy at local, national, European and global levels, as well as changes in consumer demand.
Agricultural production now requires an understanding of these demands and other concerns regarding food quality and safety and the environmental impact of production methods in the short, medium and long term.
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About the Course
The Agricultural Technology degree programmes enable graduates to gain an understanding of:
• Crop and animal production systems for the sustainability of the agricultural industry, including the underpinning scientific, economic and business principles and the applicability of recent developments
• The impact of global, EU and regional policy on the agricultural industry
• Assessing agri-environment interactions and devise environmental management strategies
• Managing agriculture as a business
• A professional approach to the work environment, study and life-long learning
• Devising, managing and evaluating project work - Undergraduate Course Links
Please see below the Course Links:
BSc Agricultural Technology Agricultural Technology (BSC HONS) D473 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) BSc Agricultural Technology with Professional Studies Agricultural Technology with professional studies (BSC HONS) D470 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) - Testimonials
TBC
- Programme Director
Biochemistry is the molecular basis of life. It applies chemical principles to some of the most exciting problems in the life sciences industry. Biochemistry explains how drugs work, helps us understand what goes wrong in diseases, and enables ‘genetic engineering‘. Consequently the subject is essential to drug discovery, biotechnology and biomedical research.
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About the Course
Biochemists investigate the structures, functions and biological roles of molecules involved in metabolism, cell signalling and the transmission of genetic information.
The BSc in Biochemistry enables students to gain an understanding of the concepts and theories relating to Biochemistry and the application of a range of practical laboratory skills. Students will explore the relevant analytical principles and techniques, and apply these in a research setting. You will understand collation, quantitative analysis and interpretation of experimental data, and the ability to problem solve. Additional skills such as; personal and team skills, data management, presentation skills, career management planning and applying your degree in the workplace will also be covered.Biochemistry Subject Talk: https://youtu.be/d34ZQZQCUTs
- Undergraduate Course Links
Please see below the Course Links:
BSc Biochemistry Biochemistry (BSC HONS) C700 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) BSc Biochemistry with professional Studies Biochemistry with professional studies (BSC HONS) C704 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) - Undergraduate Masters Course Links
Please see below the Course Links:
MSci Biochemistry Biochemistry (MCSI HONS) C702 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) Msci Biochemistry with Professional Studies Biochemistry with professional studies (MSCI HONS) C705 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) - Testimonials
First year Biochemistry and Microbiology students talk about their fantastic course experience so far: Life Sciences at the School of Biological Sciences
- Programme Director
Email: c.cao@qub.ac.uk
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.
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About the Course
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 Subject Talk: https://youtu.be/ehHHIw4h3tY - Undergraduate Course Links
Please see below the Course Links:
Biological Sciences Foundation Degree Biological Sciences (FD) C101 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) BSc Biological Sciences Biological Sciences (BSC HONS) C100 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) BSc Biological Sciences with Professional Studies Biological Sciences with Professional Studies (BSC HONS) C104 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) - Undergraduate Masters Course Links
Please see below the Course Links:
MSci Biological Sciences Biological Sciences (MSCI HONS) C102 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) MSci Biological Sciences with Professional Studies Biological Sciences with Professional Studies (MSCI HONS) C105 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) - Testimonials
Ellen (Ellie) Dolan
BSc Biological Sciences 2020-2023
I have recently graduated from BSc Biological Sciences and can highly recommend this pathway to any prospective students. Heading into this course I had no idea what field of biology I would finish in, all I knew was that I very much enjoyed the subject at A level. I think one of the main benefits of this course is that you have such a wide variety of modules to experience and choose from. Moving through the school, you learn a lot about your own interests, and you get to tailor your modules and final year honours’ project to your own interests. The support system within these modules is vital to you as the student, and a core component of the integrity and backbone of QUB Biological Sciences. You will be surrounded by world-class researchers ranging from microbiology to marine biology, who all share a deep passion for their field and a great appreciation for the importance of biological research in the future of economics, politics, and society.
Some of my greatest memories over the last three years were formed during field courses and laboratory classes, during which I met some of my best friends, and gained lifetime skills that will support me in my future career. These interactive lessons give students the best opportunity to speak to other members of their course and interact with their professors. My time at university would not have been the same without these field courses, especially in the Applied Ecology module, which facilitated a space for us to break the ice with our peers at the beginning of second year, having never met in person in our first year due to COVID-19. I also give this field course credit for sparking my interest in pursuing a career in research.
To those of you who are thinking of choosing Biological Sciences pathways at Queen’s and those who are already in their courses, it is demanding, and hard work must be undertaken, however the qualifications, work and life experiences are invaluable. As a school and as students, we can support each other so that each person can fulfil their potential and reach their own goals. Without the people I have met and the fantastic career and personal support networks at Queen’s and within the School of Biological Sciences in particular, I would not have had the confidence in myself to continue into a PhD after my undergraduate degree, nor the fond memories and good friends that I have made along the way.
- Programme Director
The growing changes affecting the natural environment, and the increasing role of environmental policies affecting businesses and organisations are creating new and challenging career opportunities for those familiar with issues of sustainable development, planning and environmental protection and management.
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About the Course
The BSc in Environmental Management explores the physical, social, economic and cultural aspects of environmental management. It combines aspects of science, geography and environmental planning with an environmental work placement to understand the environmental systems in which we live and work.
Students will be enabled to understand; issues of sustainable development, conservation and environmental protection and management, the integrated and holistic nature of environmental management and how to devise, manage and critically evaluate project work. - Undergraduate Course Links
Please see below the Course Links:
BSc Environmental Management Environmental Management (BSC HONS) F850 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) BSc Environmental Management with Professional Studies Environmental Management with Professional Studies (BSC HONS) F854 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) - Undergraduate Masters Course Links
Please see below the Course Links:
MSci Environmental Management TBC - Testimonials
TBC
- Programme Director
Food Science concerns the ‘fitness for purpose’ of our food in terms of appearance (e.g. colour and surface qualities, texture, flavour and odour) and how these can be improved, alongside the physical, microbiological and chemical aspects of our food, which may be harmful to human health and how these can be minimized.
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About the Course
This degree programme is about gaining the knowledge and understanding of key areas in relation to food production and consumption.
Food Science concerns the ‘fitness for purpose’ of our food in terms of appearance (e.g. colour and surface qualities, texture, flavour and odour) and how these can be improved, alongside the physical, microbiological and chemical aspects of our food, which may be harmful to human health and how these can be minimized.
Nutrition concerns the nutrient supply from foods necessary to support the human body in health and during ill health throughout all life stages.
This degree emphasizes the inter-relationship between these areas and their equal importance in food production. - Undergraduate Course Links
Please see below the Course Links:
BSc Food Science and Nutrition Food Science and Nutrition (BSC HONS) DB6K | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) BSc Food Science and Nutrition with Professional Studies Food Science and Nutrition with Professional Studies (BSC HONS) BDK6 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) - Undergraduate Masters Course Links
Please see below the Course Links:
MSci Food Science and Nutrition Food Science and Nutrition (MSCI HONS) DB64 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) MSci Food Science and Nutrition with Professional Studies Food Science and Nutrition with Professional Studies (MSCI HONS) BD46 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) - Testimonials
TBC
- Programme Director
‘The oceans are a key element for the existence of life on Earth. 97% of all the water on Earth, and 99% of the habitable space on this planet, is in the ocean’ (source: NASA).
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About the Course
Marine biology is the interdisciplinary study of life in the ocean. At the present time, the position of marine biology graduates has never been as critical to the functioning of our society, economy and environment. Complex issues such as overfishing, pollution and climate change are colliding to bring about extraordinary and sometimes catastrophic changes in marine systems. As a marine biologist you will apply cutting edge technologies to help tackle these issues on a scale from molecules to ecosystems.
With regards to marine resources management the UK’s territorial waters stretch over 6.8 million km² (over fourteen times the terrestrial landmass) and within this vast area lies the blue economy: marine renewable energy, oil, gas, fish, minerals and rare earth metals. To manage these resources in a sustainable manner requires assessment and guidance from highly-skilled marine biologists.
Within this context the Marine Biology degree at QUB is based on a research-led teaching format and will prepare students for a future in a diverse range of careers including marine conservation, environmental consultancy, documentary film making, wildlife tourism, fisheries management and academic study. - Undergraduate Course Links
Please see below the Course Links:
BSc Marine Biology Marine Biology (BSC HONS) C160 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) BSc Marine Biology with Professional Studies Marine Biology with professional studies (BSC HONS) C164 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) - Undergraduate Masters Course Links
Please see below the Course Links:
MSci Marine Biology Marine Biology (MSCI HONS) C162 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) MSci Marine Biology with Professional Studies Marine Biology with professional studies (MSCI HONS) C165 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) - Testimonials
TBC
- Programme Director
Microbiology is the study of bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa and viruses, and is of immense importance in relation to the environment, agriculture and food, biomedical sciences and biotechnology. Graduates in microbiology are therefore highly sought after in these fields. Microbiology is very central to many aspects of the biological sciences, from pure research to diverse industrial, medical and environmental applications.
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About the Course
Microorganisms play major roles in the diseases of man, animals and plants. Microbiologists have been central to their diagnosis and in combating such diseases through the discovery of effective therapies.
Microorganisms also play a central role in the biosphere, through global environmental processes and recycling of elements and waste products.
In biotechnology and synthetic biology, microbes are also crucial in the manufacture of beverages, pharmaceuticals, biofuels and many other useful products. - Undergraduate Course Links
Please see below the Course Links:
BSc Microbiology Microbiology (BSC HONS) C500 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) BSc Microbiology with Professional Studies Microbiology with professional studies (BSC HONS) C504 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) - Undergraduate Masters Course Links
Please see below the Course Links:
MSci Microbiology Microbiology (MSCI HONS) C502 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) MSci Microbiology with Professional Studies Microbiology with Professional Studies (MSCI HONS) C505 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) - Testimonials
Hannah Johnston
I am currently studying Microbiology with Professional Studies | MSci here at Queen’s University Belfast and I absolutely love it.
My lecturer’s and supervisor’s were inspiring and passionate about their research. I felt that they were really supportive throughout my studies and genuinely cared about their students. I enjoyed all the modules I took throughout this course. There were lots of useful resources provided for all modules and clear guidance provided for all assessments. There was also a great range of honour’s project’s to choose from and the opportunity to reach out to potential supervisors to discuss projects.
The careers department within the school of Biological Sciences is amazing. I was given a lot of advice that helped me secure a fantastic placement within the Genomic Science department at GlaxoSmithKline. I feel confident that the experience I gained throughout this course will enable me to secure a good job. I would definitely recommend this course to anyone who loves biology.
- Programme Director
TBC
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About the Course
The MSci Zoology enables students to develop knowledge and understanding of:
Concepts and theories from the molecular and cellular levels through to the whole-organism.
The principles and study of animals from the molecular to the community level.
The importance of zoonotic and emerging infectious diseases e.g. Covid-19.
Molecular techniques applied to de-extinction and conservation e.g. cloning.
The use of forensics and toxicology in the investigation of wildlife crime.
Practical laboratory skills to investigate and manipulate biological material including relevant physical, chemical and biological measurements and their application in a research project.
Collation, quantitative analysis and interpretation of experimental data, including problem-solving.
Communication and application of knowledge on the biological sciences.
The use of computers for data management and presentation.
Intellectual, personal and team skills for employment and further study.
How to carry out Masters level research.
Students on MSci Programmes can undertake an optional 16 week work placement between stage 2 and 3 which forms an excellent skill base which can be further enhanced during the research project undertaken at stage 3. This experience equips the student with a transferable skill set for entry into either employment or future postgraduate study, including research. - Undergraduate Course Links
Please see below the Course Links:
BSc Zoology Zoology (BSC HONS) C300 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) BSc Zoology with Professional Studies Zoology with professional studies (BSC HONS) C301 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) - Undergraduate Masters Course Links
Please see below the Course Links:
MSci Zoology Zoology (MSCI HONS) C302 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) MSci Zoology with Professional Studies Zoology with professional studies (MSCI HONS) C305 | Courses | Queen's University Belfast (qub.ac.uk) - Testimonials
TBC
- Programme Director