Course contact details
Directorate of Global Engagement, Marketing and Recruitment
Email:study@abdn.ac.uk
Phone:+44 (0) 1224 272090
University of Aberdeen
Directorate of Global Engagement, Marketing and Recruitment
King's College
Aberdeen
AB24 3FX
Molecular and Cellular Biology
- Bachelor of Science (with Honours)
- 4 Years
- Full-Time
- 13 September 2027
- Undergraduate
- Main Site
Course summary
Molecular and Cellular Biology is one of the great successes of 20th century science. It has revolutionised our understanding of biology over the last half-century, culminating in the determination of the complete human genome sequence. Recent innovations in molecular biology include the technology behind genome engineering, which will have broad and lasting impacts on biology and medicine.
Molecular and Cellular Biology is the investigation at the molecular level of all aspects of cells and tissues from simple systems in bacteria to more complex systems in plants and mammals. It has been responsible for spectacular successes in the treatment of disease caused either by bacteria and viruses on the one hand, or inborn genetic errors on the other. Molecular and Cellular Biology is central to current investigations to understand the genetic basis of human disease and pathology, as well as to the development of improved crops.
This degree programme will provide you with a broad base of knowledge regarding molecular biology at the molecular, cellular and organismal levels. Additionally, you will gain an in depth understanding of selected aspects of Molecular Biology which will reflect the research expertise and strengths within the School, and you will be instructed in the many applications of this subject.
Modules
Course Modules
View all modules on the programme page to find out more about what you will be studying and when. University of Aberdeen modules are designed to give you breadth and depth to your degree. The range of modules you study will allow you to become proficient in all subjects which are directly relevant to your degree giving you greater career options.
Assessment method
Students are assessed by any combination of three assessment methods: coursework such as essays and reports completed throughout the course; practical assessments of the skills and competencies they learn on the course; and written examinations at the end of each course. The exact mix of these methods differs between subject areas, years of study and individual courses. Honours projects are typically assessed on the basis of a written dissertation.
How to apply
Apply by
13 January 2027
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:
- C720
- Institution code:
- A20
- Campus name:
- Main Site
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
- Year 2
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Entry requirements
Typical qualification requirements
A levelBBC
A minimum of 3 A Levels at BBC - at least 2 from Science or Maths subjects.
To be considered for entry into Second Year, a minimum of 3 A Levels at ABB, with AB from 2 science or maths subjects (including the subject(s) nominated for Honours - an A in the subject for Single Honours or AB in the subjects for Joint Honours).
Also required: GCSE at C or above in English or English Language, Mathematics and in either Chemistry, or Physics or Dual Award Science.
UCAS TariffNot accepted
Scottish HNCPass
For entry into Year 2:
Satisfactory completion of HNC Applied Sciences (120 SCQF credit points). B in Graded Unit.
Scottish HigherBBBB
A minimum of 4 H at BBBB (C at AH may substitute for B at H) obtained at a single sitting or a minimum of 5H at AAABB obtained over 2 sittings. Must achieve at least BB from two science or mathematics subjects.
Standard Grades 1, 2 or 3 or Int 2, or National 5 at grades A, B or C in English, Mathematics and in either Chemistry or Physics.
Scottish Advanced HigherABB
For Second Year entry a minimum of 3 AH at ABB, a minimum of two must be Science or Maths subjects (including the subject(s) nominated for Honours).
Standard Grades 1, 2 or 3 or Int 2, or National 5 at grades A, B or C in English, Mathematics and in either Chemistry or Physics.
International Baccalaureate Diploma ProgrammeOffer: 32
A minimum of 32 points, with a minimum of 5 points at HL required from 2 Science or Maths subjects.
For Second Year entry: a minimum of 34 points with a minimum of 6 at HL in the subject(s) nominated for Honours.
A minimum of Standard Level English and Maths also required.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)DMM
A minimum of DMM with the main subjects being Science or Maths.
Also required: GCSE at C or above in English or English Language.
Leaving Certificate - Higher Level (Ireland) (first awarded in 2017)H3H3H3H3H3
Five subjects at Higher at H3, to include 2 Science or Mathematics subjects. O in English or in English Language also required for entry.
Entry requirements for students joining after Year 1: For entry into Year 2:
Satisfactory completion of HNC Applied Sciences (120 SCQF credit points). B in Graded Unit. https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/find-a-degree.php
English language requirements
| Test | Grade | Additional details |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS (Academic) | 6 | Overall - 6.0 with: Listening - 5.5 or above; Reading - 5.5 or above; Speaking - 5.5 or above; Writing - 6.0 or above. IELTS Indicator or IELTS General Training are not accepted. |
| TOEFL (iBT) | 78 | TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Home Edition (online) - DI code is 0818: Overall 78 with: Listening - 17 or above; Reading - 18 or above; Speaking - 20 or above; Writing - 21 or above. |
| PTE Academic | 59 | Overall - 59 with: Listening - 59 or above; Reading - 59 or above; Speaking - 59 or above; Writing - 59 or above. Online Test is not accepted. |
| Trinity ISE | Pass | Pass overall at ISE II with a distinction in writing and merit in the other three skills. |
| Institution's Own Test | Academic English Pre-sessional Programmes - Pass (valid for one year) OR Academic English Preparation Programme - Pass at Level Four (valid for one year) | |
| Cambridge English Advanced | C | Overall - 169 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 162; Speaking - 162; Writing -169. |
| Cambridge English Proficiency | C | Overall - 169 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 162; Speaking - 162; Writing -169. |
To study for an undergraduate degree at the University of Aberdeen it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write academic English fluently. These skills will allow you to understand lectures, produce high standards of written work, and perform well in examinations. We can assess your English language proficiency through a variety of means: through your nationality, through the qualifications you gained in high school, or through a recognised English language test. Please note certification must be within the two years prior to commencement of your degree programme, unless otherwise stated.https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/international/undergraduate-degrees-english-requirements-268.php
Contextual admissions
Universities and colleges consider more than grades when assessing applications and may make offers based on a range of criteria. Learn more about contextual offers.
We are keen to encourage students from the widest possible range of backgrounds to participate in University studies, and we appreciate that not all students have the same opportunity to meet our advertised entry requirements.
For this reason we take contextualised information into account when making decisions on the applications we have received. Decisions are made in line with the University's Contexualised Admissions Policy.
Historical entry grades data
This section shows the range of grades that students who received offers were previously accepted on to this course 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 available
Historical entry grades data is not currently available for University of Aberdeen - we are working with them to try and make it available soon - learn more.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
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
Fee information is not yet published for entry in Academic Year 2027/2028. For guidance, the fees on the website are for 2026/27.
Sponsorship information
Aberdeen Global Scholarship - International - UG & PGDE
The University of Aberdeen is keen to welcome talented students from all over the world. To help students fulfil their academic ambitions and ease the costs associated with studying abroad, the University is pleased to offer the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. The scholarship is available to all self-funded full-time on-campus undergraduate students classified as international fee status. The amount for students commencing in AY 27/28 has not been confirmed. The scholarship amount will be deducted from your tuition fees, as a fee waiver.
Eligible students must be registering for a full-time on-campus program (Aberdeen) and cannot be fully sponsored or in receipt of fully funded external scholarships or other University of Aberdeen scholarships, except for awards granted by the University of Aberdeen Development Trust. Please note that the scholarship does not apply to the DPLP, Dentistry or Medicine.
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