Human Biology

Human biology is crucial to developments in areas such as medicine, sports science, nutrition and mental health – this course equips you with the knowledge and skills to pursue a career at the forefront of those developments.

KEY FEATURES OF THE COURSE:

• RANKINGS: Our BSc (Hons) Human Biology course was ranked 2nd for assessment and feedback and 3rd for learning resources in the National Student Survey 2025.

• ACCREDITATION: This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, reflecting its high quality.

• IN-DEPTH KNOWLEDGE: Our course has been designed to provide you with a clear understanding of the human body, drawing upon fundamental principles of bioscience such as anatomy, genetics and physiology. Your studies will address some of the most pressing health concerns facing society today, such as dementia, cancer and obesity. We examine how these affect the body and how diseases can impact an individual’s mental as well as physical wellbeing.

• TAILORED TO YOU: There are plenty of opportunities to tailor your studies to match your personal interests and career aspirations through our wide selection of optional modules.

• RAISE YOUR PROFILE IN INDUSTRY: Between your second and third years, you can apply to work in industry or undertake an internship. Previously, our students have secured roles at the Leukaemia Research Foundation in London, Royal Derby Hospital and local pharmacies. Experiences such as these will enhance your CV.

• RESEARCH EXPERIENCE: Our human biology teaching team are active human health researchers - you could apply to help with their research to deepen your understanding of the subject and your career direction. A Bioscience Superlab and Research Lab are opening in 2025, which will give students the chance to study in an innovative, inspiring and interdisciplinary facility.

• REAL WORLD EXPERIENCES: We’re committed to your professional and career development. Your studies will be enriched by opportunities to visit working laboratories and health care settings which will give you important insights into careers in the health science sector.

WHAT YOU'LL COVER:

• You will study modules ranging from chemistry and molecular biology to anatomy, physiology and genetics. In your final year, you’ll undertake an in-depth research project into a human health theme which matches your interests and career aspirations.

HOW YOU'RE ASSESSED:

• No single assessment style suits everyone, so we take a diverse approach across the different modules. You’re assessed using a range of written assignments (including data analysis, portfolios, and practical reports), computer-based assessments, poster and seminar presentations.

YOUR CAREER:

• Our degree equips you with highly relevant and up-to-date skills that are important for careers in the NHS, health charities, medical research and biomedical industries. It also builds your transferable skills which will be invaluable if you decide to pursue other scientific or analytical roles in areas such as scientific sales, medicine, dentistry and scientific writing.

STUDY OPTIONS:

• This course is also available with a Foundation Year option.

• This course is available with an Industrial Placement Year.