Undergraduate degrees in biological sciences
Source: https://www.york.ac.uk/biology/study/undergraduate/ Parent: https://www.york.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/subject-explorer/
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Our flexible, broad-based degrees span the breadth of contemporary biology, biochemistry and biomedical sciences. We also offer specialist courses which are ideal if you have already developed a particular biological interest.
Why study biological sciences at York?
The Department of Biology is surrounded by open green spaces where you're sure to feel connected to the biological world. You'll have a warm and friendly welcome from our community of staff and students. We'll be alongside you to provide support and academic advice throughout your journey. We're well connected to a host of experts throughout the University for any additional support you may need.
All of our undergraduate courses are accredited or hold interim accreditation by the Royal Society of Biology. This recognises our academic excellence and commitment to developing graduate employability skills.
We offer three-year BSc courses and four-year integrated Masters courses which feature advanced modules and specialist research training that specifically focuses on the skills needed for a career as a research scientist.
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Our courses
We offer three-year BSc courses and four-year integrated Masters courses which offer advanced modules and specialist research training that specifically focuses on the skills needed for a career as a research scientist.
Biology courses
- Biology (BSc)
- Biology (MBiol)
- Biotechnology (BSc)
- Biotechnology (MBiol)
- Genetics (BSc)
- Genetics (MBiol)
- Molecular Cell Biology (BSc)
- Molecular Cell Biology (MBiol)
- Ecology and Conservation Biology (BSc)
- Ecology and Conservation Biology (MSci)
- Immunology and Infectious Disease (BSc)
- Immunology and Infectious Disease (MSci)
- Neuroscience (BSc)
- Neuroscience (MSci)
Biochemistry courses
Biomedical science courses
Or search all undergraduate courses.
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Course options
All of our courses are available with an optional year in industry.
There are also opportunities for you to spend time abroad during your course.
If you're studying at a university outside the UK, you may be able to spend up to a year in York as a visiting student.
Scholarships and funding
Find out about scholarships and studentships that are available to students in the Department of Biology.
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Department of Biology virtual tour - discover our fantastic facilities.
Discover our labs, computer rooms and flexible study spaces.
Enhance your degree by taking a year in industry
All of our undergraduate courses, including integrated Masters, are available with an extra year in industry.
Thinking about a career in science?
Find paid studentship positions across disciplines in a range of technical and research projects through our GenerationResearch programme.
Have fun and learn more about the department with our online puzzle game.
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Careers
- Our courses equip you with knowledge and practical skills within the biological sciences. We'll also help you to develop a number of other widely-applicable scientific abilities and skills sought after by prospective employers.
- Employment opportunities range from biological and biomedical research and development, to careers in science communication, the health service, forensic science, environmental health and wildlife conservation.
- Enhance your degree by completing a year in industry, gaining valuable work experience and helping to improve your employability. Or spend a year abroad and boost your confidence, independence and language skills.
Learn more about careers and employability
Find your career advantage: Turn ambition into achievement with our expert guidance and connections. From your first day here to life after graduation, we’ll help you succeed.
7th in the UK for biological sciences
Complete University Guide (2026)
Student and graduate stories
Hear what our students have to say about studying with us.
In one of my 1st Year assessments, we were tasked with solving a current global issue of our choice. This meant we were able to choose a topic that interested us. We were then able to present our findings through a presentation and a report. This was a fun project as it allowed us to be creative but also challenged our problem-solving abilities.
Melissa, BSc Genetics. Read Melissa's blog post.
My internship has given me an incredible level of insight into a career in intellectual property – much more than I would have gained from just reading about it on the internet! It was nice to experience the pace of the working day and I was able to build meaningful connections with the team. The team has been amazing in supporting me, giving feedback, and validating my work. I would encourage any student to apply for an internship – it has massively boosted my confidence in my own abilities!
Kimberly, MBiol Biotechnology. Read Kimberly's blog post.
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Free online courses
Get a taste of studying biology at university level with our 'bugs, brains and beasts' online course.
You'll study topics including:
- microorganisms and the biochemistry of life
- neuroscience, learning and memory
- interaction of animals with the environment, ecology and conservation.
Explore what higher education is all about. Get tips for making the most of your university life.
Next steps
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Related links
- Meet us
- Applications
- Scholarships and funding
- Student life
- Year in industry
- Study abroad
- Field courses
- FAQs