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Biological Sciences with Foundation Year

2 Study options · UndergraduateMain Site

Course options

2025-20262026-2027
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Course summary

Looking for an alternative route into biology degrees? This foundation year, taught by University academics, builds your knowledge, confidence and study skills – preparing you to succeed and progress onto any biology degree.

Specialised facilities
Benefit from cutting-edge facilities, including glasshouses, electron microscopy, marine labs and interactive microscope tech, gaining hands-on experience in the latest biological tools.

Funded field trips
Enjoy free local or subsidised international field trips, and fully funded international fieldwork in the second year - building skills, confidence and community without financial barriers.

Career-ready focus
Graduate career-ready with expert tutor support, hands-on training, and industry-relevant skills that bridge theory and practice. You'll be highly employable across a range of careers.

This course is for you if...

  • you are excited about biology – from ecology and biodiversity to cell biology and physiology

  • you're energised by fieldwork, eager to take learning beyond the lecture theatre and into real-world environments

  • you’re adaptable and curious, eager to learn from pioneering researchers shaping global biological understanding

  • you’re career-focused, aiming to graduate with the skills and experience to step confidently into the world of work or further study

Ways to study this course

Campuses

  • Main Site

Study options

  • BSc (Hons) • Full-time including foundation year • 4 Years
  • BSc (Hons) • Sandwich including foundation year • 5 Years

Start dates

  • 21/09/2026

Application codes

Course code:
C102
Institution code:
P60

University of Plymouth has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework. These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.

See why these ratings were awarded
What does this TEF outcome mean?

How to apply

Application codes

Course code:
C102
Institution code:
P60

This course may be available at alternative locations, please check if other course options are available.

Course options

Open days

Chat to student ambassadors

Discover what it's like to study Biological Sciences with Foundation Year at University of Plymouth: insights on the course, making friends, personal statement tips, uni prep, and recommended books, podcasts, and videos.

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  • Kaan

    University of Plymouth
    PhD Education
    I have completed undergrad in the field of education of students with visual impairments in Turkey. After that, I have worked in a special education centre as a special education teacher for almost one year. When I was working, I won a scholarship. Thanks to the scholarship, an exiting adventure has started in my life. Thereafter, I have completed master degree at The University of Nottingham, which provided unforgettable experiences to me. Nowadays, I am in Plymouth and interested in doctoral studies about students with dyslexia. After I complete my studies, I will be academician at Marmara university in Turkey.

  • Elena

    University of Plymouth
    BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering
    Hi! I'm Elena, I am a mature student (aged 32) studying Mechanical Engineering. I have a strong passion for art and design, so I love the fact that Mechanical Engineering can be really creative. My dream is to go into Engineering Design someday. I have a disability and I am a wheelchair user.

  • Joey

    University of Plymouth
    MDiet (Hons) Dietetics
    Hiiiii! I’m Joey, an international student from Hong Kong! It was my first time coming to the UK when I started university, and honestly, it’s been the best decision I’ve ever made. I’ve always been super interested in diet and food (because I’m such a foodie!), and I’m really excited to become a dietitian after graduation!

  • Costanza

    University of Plymouth
    BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy (Full-time)
    Hi everyone! 👋 My name is Costanza, I’m 29 years old, and I’m half Italian and half Iranian. I’m currently studying Occupational Therapy (BSc) full-time at the University of Plymouth. I absolutely love travelling, discovering new cultures, reading, hiking, watching films, cooking, and spending time with my friends and family. I’m really pleased to be back in education here in England — it’s been such a rewarding experience! As a mature student, I truly believe it’s never too late to return to study and pursue a meaningful career. I see myself working as an Occupational Therapist, hopefully within mental health, although I’m open to wherever the future takes me. I’m here to support you with any questions you might have — whether about the OT course specifically or about life at the University of Plymouth in general. Having studied in a second language myself, I completely understand the challenges that can come with that. Please don’t let any worries hold you back — there’s a wealth of support available here at UoP, and it truly is an amazing place to learn and grow! 🌟

  • Lucy

    University of Plymouth
    BSc (Hons) Ocean Science and Marine Conservation
    Hi, I'm Lucy, and I studied Animal Management in Yorkshire before heading to do Ocean Science and Marine Conservation here. It was an unusual way to get into uni but it's all been absolutely worth it! I'd love to be involved in marine megafauna research once I finish here, but right now I'm just enjoying all the opportunities Plymouth has to offer!

  • ami

    University of Plymouth
    MOccTh (Hons) Occupational Therapy
    Hello, My names Ami and i am a second year student of occupational therapy ! Any questions regarding university life and the course feel free to text me. :)

  • Uthsara

    University of Plymouth
    BSc (Hons) Navigation and Maritime Science
    I hope to work in the maritime industry as a seafarer. To work on bulk cargo ships and containerships. Previously I completed my education to A-Level in Sri Lanka.

  • Gifty

    University of Plymouth
    BMBS Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery with Foundation (Year 0)
    I enjoy studying medicine. It challenges me for the better. I want to make a positive impact in the lives of people no matter where I am as well as support people going through mental health issues.

  • Mya

    University of Plymouth
    MEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering
    Hey, I’m Mya 🌻 I love connecting with new students and helping them feel more confident about university. Feel free to message me with any questions about studying, campus life, or making the most of your time here!

  • Jenita

    University of Plymouth
    MSc Advanced Professional Practice (Nursing and Midwifery Professions)
    I’m a current student on the MSc Advanced Professional Practice (Nursing and Midwifery Professions) programme, living in Cornwall and studying through a blended learning approach with the University of Plymouth. Previously studied BSc Biomedical Science on the Plymouth campus and FdSc Nursing Associate and BSc Nursing (Adult Health) on the Truro campus (both with the University of Plymouth). Currently practicing as a Registered Nurse in Cardiac and Respiratory health alongside my studies. Within the next 12 months, I'm hoping to obtain my Master's qualification and hope to one day teach as a lecturer at the University of Plymouth. I started off my University of Plymouth journey through Clearing, so I am happy to answer any questions relating to the Clearing process, as well as applying for new courses through UCAS. With over 10 years of experience of higher education under my belt, I’m happy to answer any questions you might have about university life.

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.

Data from:
This course and 1 other biosciences (foundation only) course
Date range:
2022-2024

Grades held by accepted students

For University of Plymouth, the top and bottom 5% of student grades have been removed from these calculations. This change helps to remove any extraordinary circumstances that could impact the data. Learn more here .
CDD Most common
  1. BCC
  2. Highest grades
  3. DEE
  4. Lowest grades

Offer rate for UK school & college leavers

98% Students aged 17/18 who applied to this course were offered a place.

How do you compare?

See how students with your grades have been accepted onto this course in the past.

Fees and funding

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