Biology

Summary:

Explore life in all its forms, from the smallest molecules to entire ecosystems. On this Biology degree, you will uncover how living systems function, interact and evolve, building a broad understanding of the natural world.

At Southampton, your curiosity leads the way. You will study topics spanning molecules, cells, species and environments, while discovering how biology connects across different scales. As you progress, you can shape your degree around your interests and start to define your future direction.

Learn from researchers whose work is advancing the field, and gain the knowledge and experience to move into careers across biodiversity, conservation and the environment.

Key features of the course:

Learn alongside researchers whose work shapes what you study, bringing the latest discoveries into your learning.

Develop practical, real-world skills that prepare you for careers in industry, research and beyond, including non-scientific roles.

Take your learning beyond the lecture theatre through field trips across the UK and overseas, alongside opportunities to study abroad at partner universities around the world.

Benefit from our links with organisations such as Marwell Wildlife, connecting your studies to real conservation and research environments.

Join a university where 96% of Biological Sciences graduates were in employment or further study 15 months after graduating (Graduate Outcomes 2022/23, published 2025).

Student support:

From day one, you will be part of a welcoming Biological Sciences community, where researchers and students share ideas, knowledge and discoveries.

Your Personal Academic Tutor will support you throughout your degree, offering guidance on your studies and helping you prepare for your future, whether that is in industry, research or further study.

Further information:

This programme is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, meaning your degree is recognised and valued across the sector.

Throughout this course you'll explore the breadth of the discipline, starting with a broad base and then allowing you to choose from our extensive offering of optional modules, providing flexibility to tailor your degree to your interests and ambitions.

Year 1: Fundamentals of biology, from cells to ecosystems, including interactions between humans and life on earth.

Year 2: Key principles of biology across life, optional modules to allow you to begin to tailor your degree, and training in statistics and experimental design.

Year 3: Choose from a range of projects, from lab to data to field-based, or focussing on bioscience business, education or communication. Select optional modules that give an in-depth focus on concepts and topics that interest you.

You will also have opportunities to tailor your learning through fieldwork, lab practicals and if you wish, a semester abroad or a year in employment. Module structure may vary to keep your learning up to date with advances in biology.

For full list of all modules available, please visit the course page.

You'll learn, and be assessed, through a range of methods designed to equip you with the skills you need for success after graduating.

The learning activities include lectures, classes and tutorials, coursework, individual and group projects, and independent learning.

The assessment methods include coursework, laboratory reports and essays, individual and group projects, oral presentations, written and practical exams.