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Biology (Including Foundation Year)
- BSc (Hons)
- 4 Years
- Full-time
- 22/09/2025
- Undergraduate
- Pontypridd
- Awarded by:
- University of South Wales (Prifysgol De Cymru)
Course summary
If you don’t quite have the right qualifications to start our three year BSc (Hons) Biology degree or if you want to gain more confidence in higher level work, you could opt to start your studies with a foundation year. Are you fascinated by the scientific study of living organisms, from the molecular details of disease causing bacteria through to the ecology and evolution of large mammals? Our MBiol Biology degree is ideal if you have a keen interest in living organisms and want to gain an all-round knowledge of the subject of Biology. This complex and enthralling area of science defines our very existence, and graduates of biology degrees are well equipped to address some of the biggest problems facing our world such as how to combat antibiotic resistance, or how species adapt to climate change.
Based in our state-of-the-art laboratories and teaching rooms, you’ll study a wide range of stimulating topics, and develop the broad foundation of knowledge and solid practical experience that is required to start an exciting scientific career. The acquisition of theory will be complemented by the practical application of skills on field courses in the UK and abroad (additional costs apply to overseas field courses). Our Biology degree is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for the purpose of meeting in part the academic and experience requirement for the Membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol).
Modules
Foundation year
Foundation Statistics
Foundations of Mathematics
Essentials of Science
Foundation Biology
Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology
Foundation Chemistry
Physical Science
Year One consists of the following modules:
Microorganisms and the Dynamic Cell (20 credits)
Genetics and Evolution (20 credits)
Biological Research Skills (20 credits)
Evolutionary Botany and Zoology (20 credits)
Principles of Ecology (20 credits)
Biological Chemistry (20 credits)
Year Two:
Human Molecular Genetics (20 credits)
Frontiers in Biology (20 credits)
GIS for the Biological Sciences (20 credits)
Vertebrate Zoology (20 credits)
Medical Microbiology (20 credits)
Plus one of:
Ecological and Wildlife assessment (20 credits)
Ethology (20 credits)
Tropical Ecology and Conservation (20 credits)
Metabolism and Biochemistry (20 credits)
Year Three:
Biology Research project (40 credits)
Humans and other primates (20 credits)
Agriculture, Evolution and Biotechnology (20 credits)
Then either two of:
Advanced Ecology (20 credits)
Marine and Freshwater Biology (20 credits)
Global Ecological Change (20 credits)
Or:
Tropical Medicine (20 credits)
Clinical and Molecular Immunology (20 credits)
How to apply
Apply by
29 January
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
- Course code:
- 3W6M
- Institution code:
- W01
- Campus name:
- Pontypridd
- Campus Code:
- A
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Foundation
Chat to student ambassadors
Discover what it's like to study Biology (Including Foundation Year) at University of South Wales: insights on the course, making friends, personal statement tips, uni prep, and recommended books, podcasts, and videos.
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Kavya
University of South WalesBSc (Hons) Medical SciencesHey, nice to meet you! I'm Kavya, a 3rd year Medical Sciences student at the University of South Wales. Feel free to ask me anything about uni, student life, or just generally my experience, I’m more than happy to share! I enjoy learning about medicine and the mysteries of the brain. When I’m not studying, you can usually find me dancing, practicing martial arts or hanging out with friends and eating good food :D Princess
University of South WalesMSc Forensic Audit and AccountingI am someone who is deeply passionate about reading, learning new things and researching. I hold a BSc in Accounting and an MSc in Forensic Audit and Accounting in view. I am on a mission to earn my professional certifications as a forensic accountant, not limited to but including the ACFE and ACCA bodies, which is one of my key future goals. I genuinely love helping others and putting them first, and I believe in making a difference through supporting and uplifting my community. As an ambassador, I am here to bring enthusiasm, dedication and a little bit of my forensic mindset into everything we do together. I am just a click away and readily accessible to provide support at any time. Ashleigh
University of South WalesBSc (Hons) Criminology and Criminal Justice with PsychologyIm a 3rd Year Criminology and Criminal Justice with Psychology student at the University of South Wales. I enjoy reading and football among other things. I am the treasurer of the Psychology society. Chloe
University of South WalesBA (Hons) English and Creative WritingHi I'm Chloe, a 27 year old student ambassador. When I finish this degree I am hoping to do a postgraduate degree in Film Screenwriting or a PHD in English. I want to be a novel writer and/ or go into the publishing industry. However, I'm still discovering my options. I live in the University Mountain Halls and I love to read any books that interest me such as Percy Jackson, The Hunger Games and more. I love movies such as Ghostbusters, The Conjuring Movies and others that interest me. Anything I can do to help just give me a text. I'm here to help you with whatever questions or queries you have. Anodiwa
University of South WalesBSc (Hons) Psychology with Developmental DisordersHello! I’m Anodiwa, a 2nd year Psychology with Developmental Disorders student from Zimbabwe. I absolutely love my degree, it’s so interesting and rewarding and I’m so grateful that USW offers the Developmental Disorders minor, as that’s my main line of interest. I stay off campus, yet Treforest still gives off that close-knit student-town vibe. Everything is close together, the views are beautiful, and it’s great for hikes when you need a break from school!! I moved from Zim to Wales last year and acclimatised really well, everyone here is so friendly, and I’ve felt right at home since day one. If you’re curious about the course, life at USW, or just want a real take on being a student here, I’m always happy to chat! Kate
University of South WalesBA (Hons) EducationShwmae! I'm Kate a 19 year old student ambassador and navigator currently studying at USW Newport campus :) I studied on the BA ITE course my first year, and am now studying on the BA Education course, so am happy to help with questions on either! I'm happy to answer questions on it all! Classes, Newport accommodation, and all there is to do whilst your at uni (other than study, obviously!) Millissa
University of South WalesBA (Hons) Performance and MediaHi my name is Millissa and I am a second year Performance and Media student at the University of South Wales. I currently live in student accommodation and would be happy to answer any questions about that 😊 I also am interested in all things performing arts and media based!!! Kirsty
University of South WalesBSc (Hons) Psychology with Criminology and Criminal JusticeMy name is Kirsty, and I'm a 23-year-old third year student pursuing a degree in Psychology with Criminology and Criminal Justice. I've previously worked as a qualified childcare practitioner. My interests lie in understanding human behavior, and in my free time, I enjoy reading, working out, and having fun. I'm currently learning Spanish and Welsh, and I'm also a young carer for my grandmother. If anyone else is in a similar situation, I'd be happy to share my experiences, especially if they're trying to attend university while caring for someone. As a local student, I commute to the University, and I also have dyslexia, which makes it challenging to understand coursework. However, I've developed practical techniques to overcome these hurdles and am willing to share them with anyone who might benefit. After completing my degree, I plan to pursue a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and eventually become a lecturer in South Wales. Jessica
University of South WalesLLM Legal PracticeHello! Im Jessica, I am a second year part-time masters student, studying the Legal Practice Course. I am interested in a range of legal areas, with a particular focus on international human rights law, especially concerning women's rights. I currently live in student accommodation on the USW treforest campus. I am a representative of the Bar Society and a member of USW formula student team and the Rocketry and Christian Societies. I am happy to answer any questions you may have :) Niquita
University of South WalesBachelor of Midwifery (Hons) Registered MidwifeI have a passion to support, advocate for woman and their families. I enjoy to encourage fellow students and help them should they need any assistance. Christ is extremely important to me and sharing my faith is something I am passionate about. Oluseyi
University of South WalesMSc Pharmaceutical ChemistryMy name is Ojo, Oluseyi. I am a masters degree student studying pharmaceutical chemistry at University of South Wales. I am also a STEM ambassador for the University. I am passionate about the quality assurance of products and services having worked in manufacturing for over 7 years. It would be my pleasure to chat and answer all prospective students questions relating to studies, scholarships, student life, accommodation and other necessary information.
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
UCAS Tariff - 48 points
To include one Science subject and to exclude General Studies.
A level - DD
To include one Science subject and to exclude General Studies.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) - PPP
Relevant Science subject required.
Access to HE Diploma - D: 0 credits M: 0 credits
Pass Access to HE Diploma in Science with a minimum of 48 UCAS Tariff points
Welsh Baccalaureate - Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (last awarded Summer 2024) - D
We accept the Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate in lieu of a second subject.
GCSE/National 4/National 5
The University normally requires Mathematics/Numeracy and English at Grade C/4 or above, or their equivalent, but consideration is given to individual circumstances.
T Level - Pass (D or E)
Passing the Science T Level with Pass (D or E in the Core).
Find out more about qualification requirements for this course.
Historical entry grades data BETA
This section shows the range of grades students (with UK A-Levels or Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diplomas) who received offers were previously accepted with (learn more). It is designed to support your research but does not guarantee whether you will or won't get a place. Admissions teams consider various factors, including interviews, subject requirements, and entrance tests. Check all course entry requirements for eligibility.
Not enough data available
We are unable to show previous accepted grades for this course. This could be because the course is new, it's a postgraduate course, there isn't enough historical data, or the provider has opted out of sharing their entry grades data for this course - learn more.
Student Outcomes
Operated by the Office for Students
Employment after 15 months (Most common jobs)
Go onto work and study
The number of student respondents and response rates can be important in interpreting the data – it is important to note your experience may be different from theirs. This data will be based on the subject area rather than the specific course. Read more about this data on the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| Location | Fee | Year |
|---|---|---|
| EU | £9535 | Year 1 |
| England | £9535 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £9535 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £9535 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £9535 | Year 1 |
| International | £15850 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.
Additional fee information
Students have access to a wide range of resources including textbooks, publications, and computers in the University’s library and via online resources. In most cases they are more than sufficient to complete a course of study. Where there are additional costs, either obligatory or optional, these are detailed on the University website (on individual course pages). Of course students may choose to purchase their own additional personal resources/tools over and above those listed to support their studies at their own expense. All stationery and printing costs are at a student’s own expense.
Students from Wales and the EU may be eligible for a means-tested Welsh Government Learning Grant. Please visit the University website for full details.
University of South Wales
Llantwit Road
Treforest
Pontypridd
CF37 1DL
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Course contact details
Enquiries and Admissions Team
Email:enquiries@southwales.ac.uk
Phone:03455767778
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