Biology

Why study Biology at Liverpool John Moores University?

• Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology

• Offers a range of optional modules such as Genes and Genomes, Developmental Biology, Immunology and Medical Microbiology and Neurobiology

• Opportunity for self-funded overseas field expedition – possible destination is Doñana National Park, Spain*

• Stepping stone to careers in diverse fields such as genetics, microbiology, embryology, clinical science, radiography and environmental sciences

• Option to choose between a year's work placement or a 135 hour work-based learning placement

• £6 million invested in state-of-the-art teaching facilities

• This degree is available to study following a foundation year

• International Foundation Year course available offering direct progression onto this degree programme - visit LJMU's International Study Centre to find out more

• 94% of students on this course said teaching staff were good at explaining things (National Student Survey 2025)

• 94% of students surveyed said this course challenged them to achieve their best work (National Student Survey 2025)

About your course
The professionally-accredited BSc (Hons) Biology programme at Liverpool John Moores University opens up the fascinating subject of biology, providing a core understanding of biological theory and practical skills.

At LJMU, we recognise that biology encompasses a wide range of fascinating subject areas. That's why our first-year curriculum is designed to give you a broad foundation - allowing you to explore different fields and discover where your true interests lie. In the first year, you will typically cover core modules in Genetics and Evolution, Microbiology, Physiology, Ecology, Practical Skills for Biology and Fundamentals of Scientific Research.

In your second and third years, you have the flexibility to either maintain a broad-based approach, or tailor your degree by selecting from a wide range of optional modules across diverse biological topics. These include: Genes and Genomes, Immunology and Medical Microbiology, Marine and Freshwater Biology, Neurobiology, Forensic Bioscience and Parasitology.

All students will partake in a core residential UK field trip in the first year* and will also have the opportunity to take part in an advanced field skills expedition during the final year optional module. The possible destination is the Doñana National Park, Spain, where you can learn ecological and behavioural field work skills.

You have the opportunity to undertake a short (4-6 week) work-based placement or a 12-month placement with a relevant organisation in the UK or abroad. This will not only give you a chance to put into practice what you have learnt in the first two years, it will also help you develop your personal skills and add real value to your CV. Many students who undertake placements have gone on to work for the same organisation after they graduate.