Biology

Biology
Biology at Kent is hands-on, research-informed and globally focused. You’ll study the complexity and diversity of life, from bacteria and viruses to animals, plants and entire ecosystems. The course equips you with the analytical, practical and critical thinking skills needed to understand how living systems work – and how they are affected by external forces.

You’ll work alongside leading researchers from your very first year, gaining lab and field skills using the latest techniques and equipment. You’ll also have the chance to explore the unknown – through final-year research projects and a dedicated module on global challenges in biology.

The course reflects the full breadth of biology. Whether you’re interested in cell biology, genetics, ecology or conservation, you can shape your degree to suit your strengths and interests.

Year in Professional Practice

Tailor your degree to suit you with a Year in Professional Practice where you’ll work in industry for a year, giving you the chance to put into practice the skills you’ve learnt and build important connections. Taken between your second and final years, the a Year in Professional Practice provides an excellent opportunity to gain relevant work experience in industry in the UK or abroad. During your placement you are paid by your employer and produce an independent research project.

Year Abroad

Expand your horizons and tailor your degree to suit you with a year abroad, where you'll study at one of our partner institutions for a year. Studying abroad helps you grow in confidence and enhances your employability. You'll make friends in the country you're studying in and meet other adventurous students from around the world.

Foundation Year

This is an excellent conversion course for applicants who don't meet the academic requirements for direct entry but have shown academic ability in non-science subjects.

Year Abroad (Optional)

Taking a year abroad – whether you study at one of our prestigious partner universities or do an internship – is an amazing opportunity. This can be added during your studies.

Any Questions? We have the answers:

• Is there any additional funding for the year abroad?

  You may be able to apply for funding; check with our Go abroad team.

• Do I have to pay tuition fees for the year abroad?

  Yes, you’ll pay a substantially reduced fee. Fees for the current year (subject to changes) can be found on our tuition fees website. You don’t pay anything to the host uni.

• Will I still get my maintenance loan?

• Yes.

• When does the year abroad take place?

• Between your second and final year.

• Do I have to learn a foreign language?

  You’re taught in English in many destinations, but you’ll get more out of your year if you learn the local language.

• Does the University keep in touch?

  You have full access to all Kent’s support services as well as our dedicated Go abroad team.

Year in Professional Practice (Optional)

You have the option to add a Year in Professional Practice to this course. We already know you have the confidence and commitment to thrive in the workplace and kick-start your career. This is your chance to prove it, to yourself and to employers. This can be added during your studies.

Any Questions? We have the answers:

• When should I start looking?

  In the summer of your first year; placements must be secured by 31 August in your second year.

• Where can I get help finding a placement?

  Book an appointment with a placement adviser via the careers service.

• Will I get paid?

  Most of our placements are paid.

• Do I have to pay tuition fees?

  Yes, you’ll pay a substantially reduced fee, currently £1,850, which for UK students is covered by Student Finance.

• Where can I get visa advice if I’m an international student?

  Kent Union can help with any visa queries for your Year in Professional Practice.

• Does the University keep in touch?

  You receive four-weekly check-in emails, a visit from the team every three months and you can reach out to us any time by email or phone.

• Do I work for a full year?

  The minimum requirement for an industrial placement is 44 weeks.

Foundation Year

The following modules are what students typically study, but this may change year to year in response to new developments and innovations.

Compulsory modules currently include the following:

• Foundations of Science 1

  Since the dawn of time, humans have explored the natural world that surrounds us. Questions like, “What is life?” and “How did it all begin?” are essential because they intersect with virtually every aspect of human thought and activity, from the search for knowledge and meaning to the practical implications for science, ethics, and society.

  The foundations of biological and chemical sciences are built on a set of fundamental principles and concepts that underpin the structure, behaviour, and interactions of matter and life. These foundations are vital for understanding the complexity of living organisms and the chemical processes that sustain them.

  In this module you’ll be starting from the structure of simple atoms and molecules to the incredible complexity of the human genome. You’ll investigate the building blocks of matter and examine how atoms form complex molecules, which ultimately give rise to living organisms.

• Scientific Methods and Data Handling

  You will ignite your curiosity while gathering critical practical experience, skills and confidence in conducting scientific experiments.

  You will test hypotheses with laboratory classes that investigate the science that surrounds us. You will analyse your own experimental data, develop your numeracy and data handling skills and use appropriate software to draw meaningful conclusions.

  Blending theoretical understanding with practical laboratory investigations, you’ll be equipped with the tools necessary to progress in scientific inquiry and analysis.

• Foundations of Science 2

  In this module, you’ll continue your journey into the foundations of scientific theory and method and find answers to questions like these.

  You will learn the essential proteins and enzymes that exist in everyday life, the metabolic processes that allow us to create energy, and some of the chemistry that underpins these processes such as equilibria, acids and bases. You will deepen your academic knowledge in these areas, and explore the factors that drive chemical and biological processes.

• Scientific Methods and Academic Skills Development

  In this module, you’ll outline the essential steps associated with undertaking scientific research, and consider issues related to the experimental process and statistics.

  You’ll undertake experiments that develop proficiency in collecting, analysing, and interpreting large data sets. You’ll also be able to communicate as a scientist and improve your skills in academic writing and referencing, information retrieval and analysis, and effective presentation.

• Fundamental Human Biology and Genetics

  Studying human biology and genetics provides insights into the workings of the human body, from fundamental cellular processes to complex physiological systems. Grounded in fundamental biological principles, you’ll explore the intricate functions of human tissues and organs, gaining insight into their roles in sustaining life.

  You’ll examine the essential principles of genetic inheritance and the factors driving genetic variation, laying the groundwork for understanding the diversity of human traits. By understanding the processes that keep our organs working well, you’ll begin to understand how diseases emerge. By the end of the module, you’ll have developed a thorough and holistic understanding of the human body, health and disease onset, all of which help to shape out understanding of ourselves and our place in the world.

Optional modules may include the following

• Fundamentals of Sport and Exercise Science

• Chemical Reactivity and Analysis

Please see the course page on our website for module details.

Year 1

The following modules are what students typically study, but this may change year to year in response to new developments and innovations.

Compulsory modules currently include the following

• Bioscience Skills: Introduction to Experimental Techniques and Data Analysis

  Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, you’ll learn to analyse and present biological data using established scientific methods. You’ll gain experience using a wide range of experimental tools, processes and equipment found in modern laboratories.

  You’ll discover how to operate safely, professionally and with good laboratory practice. Using digital tools to visualise, analyse and interpret scientific data, and apply mathematical and statistical skills to solve biological problems.

• Molecules of Life

  After exploring the intricate structure/function relationship in our building blocks, you’ll then focus on enzymes, remarkable catalysts that accelerate biochemical reactions. By analysing the kinetics of these enzymes, you will explore how these proteins work and how their activity is controlled, including the mechanisms of enzyme inhibition.

• Bioscience Skills: Advancing Experimental Techniques and Data Analysis

  You'll apply your practical skills and knowledge to formulate hypotheses, test them effectively, and learn how to analyse and present data for a standard practical laboratory report. You'll evolve towards becoming a confident, independent scientist, culminating in a mini-project where you'll integrating your skills in an extended investigation.

  This will support your success in the later stages of your degree, undertaking and reporting on experimental work in line with professional standards in the life sciences sector.

• From Cells to Evolution

  You’ll explore cell structure and organisation, the intricacies of cell membranes, molecular trafficking, and the orchestration of organelles vital for energy production and metabolism. In addition, you’ll navigate cells' internal skeleton, chromosome dynamics, and the fascinating processes of cell division and meiosis. You’ll also study DNA replication, repair, and recombination, uncovering the secrets of chromatin structure and mutation.

  Further topics include the intricate pathways of transcription, mRNA processing, and protein production. You’ll also have a chance to immerse yourself in the world of genetics and explore the mechanisms underpinning evolution to gain insight into the transformative power of molecular analysis in diagnosing human diseases.

• Diversity of Life

  In this module you will explore this life in its many forms, from unicellular microbes and fungi to multicellular plants and animals. You will learn how to use morphological and molecular traits to classify any species within the tree of life. Together we will explore some of the grand evolutionary history and processes that underlie this phylogeny. By the end of this module, you will understand how animals are thought to have first evolved, how to practically classify bacteria, how plants first colonised land, and you will have begun to address many unresolved fundamental biological questions.

• Principles of Ecology and Biogeography

  What are the relationships between plants, animals and their environment (ecology), and the geographical patterns of biological diversity around the world (biogeography)? In this module we will draw on ideas from physical geography, evolutionary biology and reproductive biology to help you understand how individuals, populations and communities are distributed, and how these organisms interact with their physical environment. You will explore key concepts in population ecology, community ecology and island biogeography through practical classes and field work. The module will provide the foundational knowledge to help you understand how biogeographical and ecological principles inform global conservation strategies.

Year 2

The following modules are what students typically study, but this may change year to year in response to new developments and innovations.

Compulsory modules currently include the following

• Molecular Genetics

  This module deals with the flow of genetic information from DNA to RNA to protein in organisms, ranging from viruses to humans.

  You’ll learn how genetic information is stored in DNA and RNA, how that information is decoded by the cell, and how the flow of information is controlled in response to changes in the environment or developmental stage. You’ll compare and contrast mechanisms of gene regulation in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, and explore the latest developments in molecular genetic techniques to analyse and manipulate gene function. You’ll also explore how these mechanisms can be applied to research on human disease and the biomanufacturing of useful biological products with real-world applications.

• Bioscience Skills: Developing as an Independent Scientist

  Whether it is biology, biochemistry or biomedical sciences, scientists need to understand their subject matter. But additional skills are also needed to successfully work as a scientist.

  You’ll interpret scientific data generated with experimental methods that are commonly used in the biological sciences. You’ll develop your understanding of how to generate new scientific knowledge based on such data and apply these skills to create scientific studies that use combinations of methods to answer scientific questions.

  Finally, you’ll apply the skills you gain in this module to design a standard operating procedure as is commonly required by clinical and industrial employers of graduates.

• Plant Biology

  Plants allow life on Earth as we know it, providing food and oxygen for the entire biosphere. They also provide essential materials for us such as shelter, fibre, fuel and medicinal compounds. With the pressing environmental challenges we currently face — such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and issues around food security and sustainability — understanding plant biology has never been more critical.

  You’ll learn about plant physiology, genetics, epigenetics, and metabolomics, gaining insights into the mechanisms driving plant growth and development, and their adaptation to the environments around them. You’ll incorporate the latest discoveries and technologies into your work, and develop the knowledge, skills and critical thinking you’ll need for a future career in a growing area of the life sciences sector.

  By the end of the module, you will have deepened your understanding of plant biology and will be better equipped to apply it to the pressing global challenges we face.

• Animal Form and Function

  Animals represent a significant portion of Earth's biodiversity. By studying different species and their interactions with each other, we can gain insights into the complexities of ecosystems and the interdependence of living organisms.

  In this module, you’ll comprehensively explore animal life across evolutionary history, focusing on key elements of functional anatomy and physiology. Through comparative physiology and the study of form and function, you’ll examine the diverse physiological systems found in various animal species, gaining insights into their adaptations and variations to changing environments over time.

  By exploring these relationships, you’ll understand how animals have evolved in different environments, what challenges current global issues pose to different species, and what they — and we — can do to ensure species continue to thrive.

Optional modules may include the following

• Cellular Organisation and Processes

• The Microbial World

• Applied Ecology and Conservation

• Neuroscience

Please see the course page on our website for module details.

Year 3

The following modules are what students typically study, but this may change year to year in response to new developments and innovations.

Compulsory modules currently include the following

• Research Project

  In this module, you will work directly towards these ambitions by gaining experience in your chosen subject area.

  Working closely with your academic supervisor, you’ll select either a lab-based or data-driven project in which you will answer scientific questions that interest you. These could potentially contribute to new discoveries and expand the frontiers of our current knowledge and understanding.

  In a business project, you’ll develop your ideas into a business plan. In a communications project, you’ll create educational tools for either the general public, specific professional audiences, or school children. Whatever future career you have in mind, this module will provide you with essential skills to help you achieve your goals.

• Future Outlooks in Biology

  This module asks where the current ‘unknowns’ lie in the field of biological science and how we can answer them. The module is split into two parts:

  Unsolved Mysteries, where you will develop understanding across a range of topical areas in animal, plant and microbial biology. You’ll study recently published work addressing the themes of conflict and cooperation at all levels from genes to ecosystems.

  Global Challenges, where you will explore the UN Sustainable Development Goals and ask how biological research can contribute to addressing these.

• Research Project

  This is your chance to conduct an independent and comprehensive research project under the guidance of a research supervisor, focusing on a topic within ecology, conservation, environmental science, or geography, aligned with your degree program and interests.

  The opportunity to engage in personal research is an essential element of academic training in all disciplines, whether this be through desk-based study, practical fieldwork or laboratory work. The primary aim of the research project is to cultivate your proficiency in the organisation, analysis, and presentation of research. It will typically involve some bespoke, project-specific training in practical skills, and will require you to generate research questions, hypotheses and/or theoretical frameworks for their project.

  You will be expected to showcase your findings through a research seminar and a dissertation written in the form of a scientific paper - this acts as proof of your knowledge and skills, to help you stand out to employers.

• Biology of Ageing

  Biology of Ageing delves into the intricate molecular mechanisms underlying the ageing process. You will explore the genetic factors, cellular changes, and physiology that influence lifespan and age-related health, as well as how these are influenced by lifestyle such as diet.

  Through this, you will be equipped with a wealth of knowledge that you can use to understand the plethora of scientific and general news articles on the topic of ageing and use these to inform your own opinions. Overall, you’ll understand the benefits and challenges underlying recent advances in age-related healthcare and the ethical, economic and societal benefits of these. This understanding will help you in making new discoveries in the field.

Optional modules may include the following

• Climate Change and Conservation

• Saving Endangered Species

• Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genetics

• Frontiers in Virology and Immunology

• Cancer Biology and Therapy

• Applied Bioinformatics and Genomics

• Science Communication & Public Engagement

• Sustainable Agriculture

Please see the course page on our website for module details.

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• Royal Society of Biology