Faculty of Biological Sciences

Biology

Ecology

Genetics

Zoology

UndergraduateDegrees

Contents

4 Faculty of Biological Sciences

6 Why study organismal biology?

7 Why study at Leeds?

8 Field courses

9 BSc Biology

10 BSc Ecology and Environmental Biology

11 BSc Genetics & BSc Human Genetics

12 BSc Zoology

13 Overview of the programmes

14 Interdisciplinary degrees

15 Teaching & assessment

16 Industrial & international placements

17 Careers

18 Life in Leeds

19 Admissions

2,000 biologicalsciences students

from over 30 countries

biological sciences£60m

researchportfolio

Industrial placement

opportunities

At a glance

3

One of the largest and most successful study abroad programmes in the UK

Field courses offered inlocations as diverse as NorthYorkshire and Africa

Consistentlyone of the

UK’s mostpopularuniversities

Employers are impressedby our students: our

‘employer review’ score wasa magnificent

98 out of 100

One of the largestmedical and bioscience

centres in the UK

Investing £359min an outstanding learning environment

Wide range

of subjects

The Faculty of Biological Sciences is one of the largest

communities of biological scientists in the UK with

research and teaching that competes with the best

institutions worldwide. As a member of the prestigious

“Russell Group” of research-intensive universities, we

spend over £60m on scientific research projects ranging

from molecular structure, cell and tissue biology and

physiology through whole organism, plant, animal and

medical science to the environment, ecology and sports

science. If you choose to become a student at Leeds you

can be assured that you are working alongside world-class

experts who bring the latest, cutting-edge research to their

teaching and therefore, your learning. We teach around

1,800 Biological Sciences undergraduate students and

350 postgraduate students who come from over 30

countries. Visit www.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/admissions

Excellence in research-led teachingWe want our graduates to go out into the world and make

an impact and our research-led teaching gives students

the confidence and skills to achieve their potential. Our

courses are underpinned by current research and students

are taught by pioneering researchers who push the

boundaries of this knowledge on a daily basis. Our

position amongst the UK elite for bioscience research was

confirmed in the latest Research Assessment Exercise

(RAE) - an independent government audit of research

quality. We were ranked 4th for biological sciences by the

leading scientific journal ‘Nature’ based on the numbers

of staff producing research that was “world leading or

internationally excellent”. Visit

www.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/research/bulletin for research

achievements.

Our teaching recently received a resounding endorsement

with exceptional scores in the National Student Survey

2008. Such results show that our students enjoy their

experience and value the education we offer. You will be

taught in modern well-equipped facilities, in a wide

variety of formats, with exceptional learning resources. In

addition to traditional face-to-face teaching, we make

extensive use of the virtual learning environment, where

students can access learning resources (e.g. lecture,

practical and tutorial materials), reading lists, past

examination papers, coursework deadlines, timetables,

skills guides, module handbooks and assessment

guidelines. We also regularly integrate innovative online

tools including self-assessment exercises, blogs, wikis and

discussion boards into our teaching.

Faculty of Biological Sciences

44

A strongly supportive learning environmentWe strive to make the transition to university life as easy

as possible for our students so even before you arrive you

can log into our virtual learning environment and find out

about your course, make friends online and ask our

admissions tutors questions. We also offer a peer

mentoring scheme, which matches students with a second

year student who will provide support both before you get

here and once you arrive, should you need it. Once you

arrive we have an induction scheme which includes a

social programme involving both staff and students, so

that you can get to know other students and also the

people who will be teaching you. In general, you are

assured of the support of a committed team who will

strive to make your time here productive, interesting and

enjoyable. We have a very active staff-student forum for

each of our programmes, which provides an opportunity

for students to give us feedback on our teaching and their

experience.

Leeds for Life Our Leeds for Life scheme, used in conjunction with

regular meetings with an academic ‘personal tutor’, helps

all students from the very beginning of their time here to

recognise and develop the qualities they are gaining from

the whole of their University of Leeds experience - both

from their course and the huge range of co-curricular

opportunities on offer. Visit www.leeds.ac.uk/leedsforlife

Excellent career prospectsIn addition to providing subject-specific knowledge, we

equip all our students with the best possible skills for

future careers. All of our degrees have a strong emphasis

on practical based teaching, online learning and problem

solving. Throughout the degree, students gain a wide

range of transferable skills which are highly valued by

employers. Our University “employer review” score was 98

out of 100 (November 2008) and our industrial

placement scheme offers opportunities to gain an insight

into a range of careers prior to graduation as well as work

experience. The Faculty also brings together people from

government, business, healthcare and academia to deliver

benefits to wider society; this has helped generate over 20

successful spin-off commercial companies in recent years.

State-of-the-art facilitiesWe have modern well-equipped laboratories and specialist

facilities including the University Farms, which are used

for research, on-campus greenhouses and the Zoological

Museum.

The University provides extremely well-equipped lecture

theatres with the latest audio-visual aids and the Library,

incorporating the extensive Health Sciences Library, has

over 2.9m items including over 20,000 journals, a

comprehensive collection of databases and reference

materials available through the Library website at any

time. Find out more about study facilities at

www.leeds.ac.uk/students/study_facilities.htm

International studentsOur degree programmes are internationally renowned and

so we attract students from over 30 countries worldwide.

Find out about current students’ experiences at

www.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/courses/international

55

Why study

organismal biology?

6

Biology is the study of life. It addresses phenomena related toliving organisms over a wide range of scales: from themolecular (e.g. biochemistry, genetics and molecular biology),through cellular (e.g. cell biology and histology) and organismal(e.g. developmental biology and plant and animal physiology),to populations (e.g. ethology, ecology and evolution).

Biology is fascinating. It searches for answers to fundamentalquestions such as how did life first begin? How does a single-celled human embryo differentiate into the hundreds of celltypes found in an adult human? Why do fireflies light up? Howand why do some parasites change the sex of their host?

Biology is dynamic. It is probably the most actively changingand developing subject area in the whole of science. Thediscovery of the structure of DNA more than fifty years ago andthe progress in molecular biology since has enabled biologiststo make rapid and significant advances in our understanding ofall things related to biology.

Biology is priceless. It is a ‘reservoir’ of solutions (appliedbiology) to many challenges facing man, be they in medicine,agriculture, conservation, forensics or engineering.

Biology provides opportunities. It encompasses a broad rangeof academic disciplines and consequently it can take you intomany careers. Biology graduates are in demand and enjoyexcellent career opportunities.

Biology web links:Biology News Net: www.biologynews.org.uk

Tree of life web project: www.tolweb.org/tree

MBiol,BSc opportunitiesFor students considering a career in biology, you can studyBiology, Ecology and Environmental Biology, Genetics, HumanGenetics or Zoology as a four-year, integrated Mastersprogramme (MBiol,BSc). The MBiol,BSc allows you to gain aMasters degree while still being eligible for undergraduatefunding and leaves you in a strong position to continue a careerin biology. The first three years of the MBiol,BSc are similar tothe respective BSc programme, but you then extend yourstudies to a more advanced level in the fourth year. During thisyear you carry out an in depth, 9 month research project andselect from the diverse Masters-level modules offered at Leeds.

Typical Masters-level modules that will be available to studentson the MBiol,BSc programme include:

• Population Dynamics• Community Ecology• Taxonomy and Systematics• Bio-imaging• Techniques in Human Molecular Genetics• The Science of Proteomics• Current Topics in Plant Science• Molecular Cell Biology

An outstanding range of courses• The depth and breadth of our expertise is reflected in

the wide range of degree courses to choose from. Someare broadly based such as BSc Biology or BSc BiologicalSciences, others more specialised such as BSc Ecologyand Environmental Biology, BSc Human Genetics or BScZoology.

• Our programmes share a similar first year which offers awide and flexible choice of optional modules with thepossibility of changing programme at the end of year 1.

• In all our programmes, students have the opportunity tobenefit from a year spent working in industry or studyingabroad, enhancing career prospects.

• We have flexible entry requirements and welcomeapplications from students offering a wide range ofqualifications.

• We place a strong emphasis on field work, offeringcompulsory courses free of charge (See page 8).

A first-class learning environment• Our teaching has been externally audited as excellent.

• Students receive strong pastoral care to ensure theyenjoy their time at university and achieve their potential.This includes a well-established personal tutor system.

• Student support and welfare systems within theUniversity are some of the best resourced in the UK.

• As members of the Faculty of Biological SciencesUndergraduate School, students benefit from researchand teaching collaborations across the whole range ofbiological and biomedical sciences.

• We have excellent resources for teaching, including wellequipped labs and additional facilities including theUniversity Farms, Zoological Museum and on-campusgreenhouses.

• We are located at the heart of the University campus, closeto all student facilities and adjacent to the city centre.

Excellent career prospects• Our graduates are much in demand and enjoy excellent

career prospects.

• You will graduate with a degree from a research-intensivefaculty that is much respected by employers in scienceand non-science areas alike.

• There are opportunities for students to continue theirstudies in Leeds for higher degrees (MSc, MRes or PhD).

Research-led teaching• Our position amongst the UK elite for bioscience

research was confirmed in the latest ResearchAssessment Exercise (RAE) - an independent governmentaudit of research quality. We were ranked 4th forbiological sciences by the leading scientific journal‘Nature’ based on the numbers of staff producingresearch that was “world leading or internationallyexcellent”. Our work is funded by industry, government,the NHS and major charities.

• Our strong research base gives students access to a widerange of cutting-edge expertise and modern scientificresearch facilities e.g. in-vitro fertilisation for assistedhuman conception and the application of the physics ofbat echolocation to the development of an aid for thevisually impaired.

• In the final year, students choose and carry out aresearch project linked to a major research theme whichcan be laboratory, literature or computer-based. Many find the project to be one of the highlights of their course.

Scholarships• We have scholarship schemes for excellent UK/EU

students and international students. See www.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/courses/scholarships

• The University offers an additional range of scholarshipsand bursaries. See www.leeds.ac.uk/students/fees

Why study at Leeds?

7

I decided to go on the Africa field trip as I’m

the sort of person who learns by doing.

I particularly enjoyed the night drives as we

observed a wide range of wildlife. I also enjoyed

visiting an elephant park, swimming at the

local beaches and visiting Grahamstown,

where we learnt about the local culture

and history.

Natalie Coles, zoology graduate

“

At Leeds we see great value in the learning opportunitiesoffered by practical field courses and offer five differentfield courses for undergraduates in locations as diverse asNorth Yorkshire and Africa.

All students studying BSc Biology, BSc Zoology and BScEcology and Environmental Biology have the opportunityto participate on residential field courses throughout theirprogramme. BSc Genetics and BSc Human Geneticsstudents have the opportunity of a field course during year 1. Some field courses are compulsory for somestudents, whilst others may be optional depending on your programme of study.

Any field courses that are compulsory for your degreeprogramme will be free of charge, however, for optionalfield courses you will be charged relevant out of pocketcosts (principally travel, subsistence, accommodation andinsurance), for which there may be help available. Not only are field courses highly enjoyable, butparticipants benefit from:

• A chance to use university-learnt techniques in real lifesituations

• Experience of individual and team working

• High staff/student ratios

• Guidance and support of tutors on location

• First-hand experience of collecting and analysing data

• An opportunity to develop individual research skills -vital for final year research projects

• Skills development valued by employers after graduation

• A chance to get to know staff and fellow students evenbetter

We currently run field courses to Scarborough, Dale Fort,Malham Tarn, the Mediterranean - currently Almeria - andan African field ecology course. For photos, case studiesand more information visit:www.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/courses/fieldcourses

”

Field courses

8

BSc Biology UCAS code: C100

Why study biology? Biology is a wonderfully wide-ranging subject, and Leeds,with one of the UK’s largest and most diverse biologyteaching groups, is well equipped to deliver. Theemphasis of the programme is the whole organism towhich everything is related, be it the molecules that formproteins or communities of organisms in an ecosystem.The degree is popular - for some it’s the breadth of thesubject that appeals, for others it’s a path tospecialisation. All students have the opportunity totransfer onto our specialist degrees in Zoology andEcology at the end of the first year. Students can alsospend a year working in industry or studying abroad.

Course structure Year 1: the modules taught in the first year reflect thecomplexity of life forms from molecules, throughorganisms, both plants and animals, to populations andthere is a residential field course to North Yorkshire. Theresearch ethos is developed and fostered from the startvia practicals, research seminars and tutorials.

Year 2: students take modules in the disciplines ofgenetics, zoology, plant biology and ecology, whichinclude human genetics, evolution, animal behaviour andparasitology. There is also an optional Yorkshire Dalesfield course.

Year 3: students study topics at the cutting-edge ofbiological discovery in areas such as epigenetics,bioacoustics, and conservation biology. Students canundertake their own independent research, literature orcomputer-based project. There is also an optional SouthAfrican field course.

You can study this course as a four-year (MBiol,BSc)degree* consisting of the three-year BSc programmeabove with an additional 4th year devoted to an extensiveresearch project and advanced topics from Masters-levelmodules. MBiol,BSc entry requirements are AAA-AAB orequivalent.

For further information visit:www.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/courses/biology

*MBiol,BSc option subject to approval

I wanted to study in the Faculty of

Biological Sciences as at the end of my

studies I know I will gain a degree that

employers will value. The biology course

also gives a lot of scope and flexibility for

moving into other areas of study.

James Craig, current biology student

“”

Degree courses

9

“

10

BSc Ecology and

Environmental Biology UCAS code: C180

Why study ecology? Ecology is the study of species and how they interact withone another and their environment. Ecology forms a bridgebetween biology and the environmental sciences andaddresses important issues, such as species responses toclimate change, maintaining biodiversity and conservation.Leeds is an exceptional place to study ecology, whereworld-class ecologists and biologists work with colleaguesin Geography, and Earth and Environment. We offerresidential field courses throughout the programme.Compulsory courses are free of charge.See www.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/courses/fieldcourses

Course structure Year 1: consists of a wide range of topics includingbiodiversity, evolution, ecology, cell biology and genetics.The residential field course in North Yorkshire is ahighlight of the year.

Year 2: you will focus on core issues in ecology, includingpopulation and community ecology, animal behaviour andevolution, as well as undertaking a compulsory field courseon Mediterranean ecology and an optional course in theYorkshire Dales. Optional modules include climate change,ecophysiology, and arctic and alpine environments. Youcan take an industrial or study year abroad at the end ofyear 2, which will enhance your employment prospects.

Year 3: you can undertake an independent research orliterature based project in one of our internationallyrecognised laboratories. There is also a very popularoptional field course in African ecology. Taught modulesinclude bat ecology, conservation biology and advancedtopics in ecology.

You can study this course as a four-year (MBiol,BSc)degree* consisting of the three-year BSc programme abovewith an additional 4th year devoted to an extensiveresearch project and advanced topics from Masters-levelmodules. MBiol,BSc entry requirements are AAA-AAB orequivalent.

For further information visit:www.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/courses/ecology

*MBiol,BSc option subject to approval

BSc Ecology and Environmental Biology is an

extremely interesting degree programme,

grounded in biology but offering a wide range of

modules and subject matter from across the

University. Field courses create the opportunity

to apply ecological concepts learnt during the

programme to real life situations.

Michael Thackwray, ecology

and environmental biology graduate ”

BSc GeneticsUCAS code: C400

The course provides a comprehensive study of the nature,transmission and expression of genetic information in livingorganisms.

BSc Human GeneticsUCAS code: C402Human Genetics is popular with students consideringalternatives to medicine. This programme considers the far-reaching advances in the medical applications of genetics.

Why study genetics?Genetics is a vibrant and expanding discipline at the core ofbiological and medical sciences. Recently we have seen thedecoding of the genomes of humans and deadly pathogens, andthe report of the first man-made chromosome. Techniques suchas genetic engineering and DNA fingerprinting are alreadyindispensable in areas such as drug discovery and forensics.Computer-based models are proving invaluable in discoveringhuman-disease genes and the relatedness of individuals andspecies. Our genetics degrees provide a comprehensive study ofthe nature, transmission, and expression of genetic informationin living organisms, as well as the applications of genetictechniques in fields as diverse as genetic engineering,developmental biology, biotechnology, diagnostics therapies forhuman diseases and conservation biology.

Course structure for both programmes Year 1: You will study a set of core modules including genetics,cell biology and biochemistry with other modules from biologyand microbiology. Our first year modules provide an excellentfoundation for future study.

Year 2: The focus is more specifically on genetics withcompulsory modules in genetic engineering, bacterial genetics,genome structure, human genetics and developmental biology.There is an opportunity to take an industrial or study abroad yearat the end of year 2 which will help to broaden your experience,enhance your skills and improve your employment prospects.

Year 3: Specialised genetics modules in applied genetics,human genetic disorders, advanced molecular genetics, cancergenetics and cell cycle control are taught in a research-ledenvironment. Students can undertake their own independentresearch project supervised by one of our research staff.

You can study this course as a four-year (MBiol,BSc) degree*consisting of the three-year BSc programme above with anadditional 4th year devoted to an extensive research project andadvanced topics from Masters-level modules. MBiol,BSc entryrequirements are AAA-AAB or equivalent.

For further information visit:www.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/courses/genetics andwww.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/courses/humangenetics

*MBiol,BSc option subject to approval

The computer facilities are excellent and

the Student Portal is great for accessing

lecture notes, timetables and messages

from our tutors.

Kholoud & Mashael Alshafai (twin sisters),

current human genetics students

“ ”11

Zoology is an interesting and versatile degree

that builds on the excitement and challenges of

biology by offering numerous subject-specific

modules and field trips. Such a course is

invaluable in the face of ever-increasing global

awareness of the environment.

Thomas Walker, current zoology student

“

BSc Zoology UCAS code: C300

Why study zoology?Zoology is the study of animals, how they function,behave and evolve. Zoology at Leeds is taught by some ofthe leading scientists in their fields and offers you anexceptional breadth and depth of experience in wholeorganism zoology. We received a 100% overallsatisfaction score from our graduates in the latestNational Student Survey, making us the top-rated zoologycourse nationally.

Course structure Year 1: first year teaching spans from genetics, throughwhole organism biology, to ecology, with a residentialfield course in North Yorkshire. This gives you the broadbiological background a zoologist needs and allowstransfer between biological courses, if desired. Zoologystudents at Leeds carry out short research projectsduring their first year, embedding you from the start inthe exciting world of scientific research.

Year 2: the second year teaches core zoology includinganimal behaviour, evolution and physiology. There is amarine zoology field course, an optional Mediterraneanfield course, and further research projects. At the end ofyear 2 you can expand your experience by spending ayear working in industry or studying zoology abroad.

Year 3: in the final year students study topics at thecutting-edge of zoological research including socialevolution, sex, parasites and bat behaviour. There is anoptional field course to South Africa. Students canundertake their own independent research, literature orcomputer-based project, with the best contributing toscientific publications.

You can study this course as a four-year (MBiol,BSc)degree* consisting of the three-year BSc programmeabove with an additional 4th year devoted to an extensiveresearch project and advanced topics from Masters-levelmodules. MBiol,BSc entry requirements are AAA-AAB orequivalent.

For further information visit:www.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/courses/zoology

*MBiol,BSc option subject to approval”12

Overview of programmes

Course changes may occur given the fast-moving nature of the field and below is an indicative list only. Each year you taketopics (listed by programme) and appropriate optional subjects. You may also take elective modules from within the BiologicalSciences Undergraduate School or others, such as a foreign language, computing or business studies from other departments.

All programmes

All students take Cell Biology, TheDiversity of Life, Introduction toGenetics and Introduction to Statisticsand can take an elective module inaddition to the programme-specificmodules shown below.

Biology

Ecology in a Challenging World(optional); Coastal & Upland HabitatsField Course; Tutorials for Biology;Applied Biology & Agriculture (optional);The Biochemistry of Cells & Organisms(optional); Genetics Practicals; AnIntroduction to Microbiology.

Genetics and Human Genetics

Introductory Biochemistry; PracticalGenetics; Tutorials for Genetics,Immunity (optional), Microbiology inAction (optional).

Ecology & Environmental Biology

Ecology in a Challenging World; Coastal& Upland Habitats Field Course;Research Experience & Skills Level 1;Applied Biology & Agriculture (optional);Biochemistry (optional); plus an optionalmodule from Geography, Maths or Earthand Environment.

Zoology

Practical Genetics; Ecology in aChallenging World; Coastal & UplandHabitats Field Course; ResearchExperience & Skills Level 1; AppliedBiology & Agriculture (optional);Biochemistry (optional).

All programmes

All students will have programme-specific small group teaching intutorials, plus modules as shown below.

Biology

Plant Biology; Evolution; AnimalPhysiology: from Ants to Whales; Genetics(Prokaryotic, Eukaryotic or Human).

Further topics are selected from thegroups below.

Genetics and Human Genetics

Eukaryotic Genes; Cloning & Expression;Developmental Biology; ProkaryoticGenetics & Gene Expression; Evolution;Human Genetics.

Ecology & Environmental Biology

Animal Behaviour; Evolution; Population &Community Ecology; Animal Physiology:from Ants to Whales; Experimental Design &Analysis; Research Experience & Skills Level2; Mediterranean Ecology Field Course plusoptional modules in Geography, and Earthand Environment.

Zoology

Animal Behaviour; Evolution; Population &Community Ecology; Animal Physiology:from Ants to Whales; Animal DevelopmentalBiology; Experimental Design & Analysis;Research Experience & Skills Level 2;Marine Zoology Field Course.

Optional topics

Human Evolution; Bioinformatics; BiologicalMembranes & Cell Signalling; TerestrialEcology & Behaviour Field Course; Historyof Genetics; Virus & Virus Host Interactions;Immunology & Parasitic Diseases; Plants &Environment; Plant Biology; AnimalNutrition & Metabolism; Animals as Pests.

All programmes

All students undertake a researchproject.

Biology

Choice is made from the broad rangeof advanced level topics listed below.

Human Genetics

Understanding Human InheritedDisease; Human Genome Project;Genetics & Immunity; Cancer Biology;Human Population Genetics &Evolution; Epigenetics.

Genetics

Applied Genetics; Advanced MolecularGenetics; Developmental Biology;Epigenetics.

Ecology & Environmental Biology

Ecological Interactions; Bats: Biology & Behaviour;Conservation; Behavioural Ecology;Social Insect Biology and optionalmodules in Geography, and Earth andEnvironment.

Zoology

Behavioural Ecology; Bats: Biology &Behaviour; Bioacoustics; CurrentTopics in Evolution; Conservation;Ecological Interactions; Social InsectBiology.

Optional topics

Plant Developmental Biology; PlantGrowth & Resource Acquisition;Animal Metabolism & Nutrition;Applied Animal Science; South Africafield course.

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3

13

14

Interdisciplinary degrees

BSc Biological SciencesUCAS code: C701

Why study BSc Biological Sciences?Biology is changing! Of all the sciences biology is the mostdiverse, presenting great benefits as well as potential dangersto mankind. Bioscientists now have the tools to unlock themysteries of life. In this century we will see discoveries andthe application of technology that will transform our veryexistence. With the expansion of the Biosciences comes thegeneration of new and varied career opportunities. Employersare increasingly looking for good life science graduates whoare flexible and adaptable and who have a broaderappreciation of their subject.

The Biological Sciences programme is designed to producegraduates who are in a position to take full advantage of thisrapidly changing and expanding arena. This will mean anemphasis on the molecular and cellular basis of the subjectincluding recent discoveries that have transformed thediscipline. This approach is highly relevant to today’s “newbioscience”, providing you with a relevant and up-to-datecareer portfolio. Above all, this programme offers you choice,time to decide upon a preferred course of study, and theopportunity to take “ownership” of your course.

Course structureThe programme is modular, based mainly on 10 and 20credit taught units, with you taking a total of 120 creditseach year. Teaching and assessment is delivered throughlectures, tutorials, seminars and practical classes, includingon-line resources. In-course tests, laboratory assessments andtutorial work allow you to develop and demonstrate anunderstanding throughout the duration of the programme.

A broad based first year covers an introduction to cell biology,biochemistry, microbiology, genetics, physiology and chemistryfor the life sciences. The structure of the first year is designedto optimise your choices in year 2. There is the opportunity toconsider switching to a more specialised degree, such asbiochemistry, genetics or microbiology at the end of year 1.

In year 2, you will continue to study biological processes atthe molecular and cellular levels, but you can choose areas ofscience in which you wish to focus. Our students choosemodules that can be described as following one of four mainthemes; these are Medical Biology; Animals, Disease &Development; Plant & Microbial Sciences; and InheritedDisease & Genetics. Each theme contains a number ofcompulsory modules, upon which you may choose additionalmodules from a list of options.

Further choice is also available in year 3; the optionsavailable to you at this stage will depend on the modules youhave taken previously. In addition to advanced topicsmodules, year 3 includes an independent research project,which can be laboratory, literature or computer-based.Through your choice of research project it is possible tofurther specialise your theme of study.See www.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/courses/biolsci

I like the fact that our tutors are experts in their

field and are renowned for their research.

We are taught things that you wouldn’t find in

textbooks because it is so recent and the

teaching labs are some of the best I’ve seen.

My degree has given me a broad knowledge

which I can build on if I get a place

in medical school.

Katie Wade,

current biological sciences student ”“

15

Teaching & assessment

Teaching for each programme takes place over three terms(30 weeks) divided into two semesters. You will havelectures each week, and regular laboratory and tutorialsessions. In the final year, your research project will takeup about one third of your time with the rest devoted tolectures and tutorials. All the programmes use a variety ofteaching methods including:

LecturesWe have modern lecture theatres, well equipped with thelatest audio-visual and computer-based teaching aids,such as Wi-Fi.

Laboratory classesThe practical content of our courses is high which standsstudents in good stead in competition for science-basedcareers. Students work in small groups supervised by ademonstrator.

TutorialsSmall group teaching encourages active participation andunderstanding rather than simply remembering.

Online learningIn addition to traditional face-to-face teaching, we makeextensive use of the virtual learning environment, wherestudents can access learning resources (e.g. lecture,practical and tutorial materials), reading lists, pastexamination papers, coursework deadlines, timetables,skills guides, module handbooks and assessmentguidelines. We also regularly integrate innovative onlinetools including self-assessment exercises, blogs, wikis anddiscussion boards into our teaching.

Final year projectStudents choose an individual final year project from awide range of topics to best suit their interests and careeraspirations. The project is an original laboratory, literatureor computer-based study supervised by an academicmember of staff. For many of you this will be theculmination of your studies and often the topic can berelated to the career that you hope to pursue. All studentsbenefit from the skills training it includes, for exampletime management, report writing, and giving presentations

as well as learning about experimental design. We have pioneered an undergraduate electronic journal,offering a fantastic opportunity to create an e-publicationbased on your research, and to learn the standardsrequired for professional scientists. See www.biolog-e.leeds.ac.uk

Transferable skillsIntegral to all our degree courses is training intransferable skills, such as the ability to workindependently or in a group, to plan and organise workeffectively, to analyse and manipulate data, solveproblems and to communicate information clearly toothers. Such skills are important in all walks of life andare increasingly sought after by employers.

Self-directed studyWe have excellent library and computer facilities to helpstudents study independently. See www.leeds.ac.uk/students/study_facilities.htm

AssessmentWe use a variety of assessment methods: multiple-choicetesting, practical work, data handling and problem-solvingexercises, group work, discussion groups (real and online),computer-based simulation, essays, posters and oralpresentations. These are all opportunities for you todemonstrate your academic strengths.

Study skills The University’s Study Skills Centre offers advice, classesand workshops to help you achieve your maximumacademic potential. See www.leeds.ac.uk/skillscentre

The Gatsby Plants Project The Gatsby Charitable Foundation supports the annualGatsby Plants Summer School for around 100 high-achieving first year undergraduates from UK universities.The summer school, co-ordinated by our own Dr CeliaKnight, involves high profile national and internationalspeakers and tutors from UK universities. See www.gatsbyplants.leeds.ac.uk

All degree courses in the Biological SciencesUndergraduate School offer the opportunity of an industrialplacement or study year abroad; these are taken betweenyears 2 and 3 of the degree programme. We cannotguarantee a placement, since competition for theseschemes is high, but we will actively support you inlooking for a placement, and of course while you are onplacement. Many of our students have found this toprovide an excellent opportunity to develop newprofessional skills and gain invaluable experience of adifferent working or studying environment. Students whoundertake this option gain a level of maturity thatenhances their graduation and employment prospects.

Industrial placementsAn industrial placement is an excellent opportunity tosample a relevant workplace environment, crystallise yourcareer intentions and give yourself that ‘added extra’ forentering the job market. Our students find industrialplacements that are relevant to their degree programmes incompanies across a spectrum of activities; pharmaceutical;biotechnology; food; biology testing laboratories; researchinstitutes; environment; agriculture; leisure and health.Recent industrial placement partners have includedGlaxoSmithKline, Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Novartis, Syngenta,Cambridge Antibody Technology, Lonza Biologics, QinetiQ,Aeirtec, Clariant, Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, Covance,Amersham, Central Science Laboratories and Celltech. Most placements are UK-based, although there is scope forplacements abroad and the majority of placements aresalaried. The year in industry is assessed but it does notcontribute to your degree classification.

Study Abroad Programme A study year abroad placement offers the opportunity toexperience another country, increase language skills andexpand and enrich your knowledge base, all of whichprovide you with added ‘employability’ factors.Students are able to study at a selected university abroadin Europe, North America, Australia or Singapore.For placements in France, Italy, Germany and Spain, youwill require a working knowledge of the language eitherfrom A Level or a language module taken at Leeds in year2 of your degree programme. Placements are for oneacademic year during which you will be able to choose arange of taught modules and carry out a supervisedresearch project. The study year abroad is assessed but itdoes not contribute to your degree classification. At thepresent time, reduced tuition fees are payable while youare on placement.

Find out more at www.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/courses/industrial

andwww.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/courses/studyabroad

Industrial &

international placements

“I worked in the Department of Genetic Toxicology

conducting pre-clinical safety assessments of

new drugs to determine whether they were safe

enough to carry through to clinical trials.

The opportunity to work in a large-scale

industrial environment has been invaluable and

has undoubtedly helped me with my final year

project, given me ideas for future career paths

and has boosted my employability.

Amy Lane, current biology (industrial)

student, GlaxoSmithKline ”16

Careers for biologistsThe new “biology century” is creating a vast and diverserange of employment opportunities. Our graduates have formany years experienced one of the highest employmentrates of any university graduate. Our programmes enablegraduates to obtain employment in scientific and non-scientific careers alike. We emphasise the development of‘transferable graduate skills’ throughout our courses. Theseskills will be essential in modern careers and areparticularly valuable in the process of job seeking.

Science/biology-related careersBiology is a wide-ranging subject with specialisations thatcan take you into many fields. Biology graduates become:medical scientists, biotechnologists, teachers, ecologists,forensic scientists, genetic counsellors, neurobiologists,dietitians, agricultural scientists, conservationists,bioinformaticists, geneticists, veterinary scientists, marinebiologists and many more.

Non-scientific careersEmployers in fields such as business, or the media, whichtraditionally did not require life sciences training, areincreasingly finding that they need at least a workingknowledge of the principles of biology. Our graduates acquireskills of numeracy, analytical thinking, creativity in problemsolving and data handling, all of which equip them for jobs innon-scientific careers such as sales and marketing,accountancy, finance, patent work and journalism.

Further studyGraduates also go on to further study including PhD,masters degrees, PGCE and medicine.

Recent graduate first jobs include:

• Forensic Laboratory Analyst, Orchid Biosciences Ltd• Ecology Group Assistant, Marine Biological Association• Trainee Production Manager, Grampian Country Food Group• School Science Technician, Manchester City Council• Animal Health Enforcement Officer,

Denbighshire County Council• Assistant Consultant, PriceWaterhouseCoopers• Administration Assistant, Organic Food Federation• Medical Sales Representative, Schering Plough

A selection of graduate case studies can be read atwww.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/courses/biology/careers

www.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/courses/ecology/careers

www.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/courses/genetics/careers

www.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/courses/humangenetics/careers

www.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/courses/zoology/careers

Careers resourceswww.prospects.ac.uk

www.nutritionsociety.org

www.bsas.org.uk

www.jobs.ac.uk

Careers

“My current position is Researcher at the BBC

Natural History Unit (NHU) making wildlife films

for programmes such as Springwatch,

Autumnwatch and The ONE Show.

My degree definitely helped me, as the NHU

could see that I had a zoology background and

that I had also obtained many of the right skills

needed for the job.

Valeria Fabbri-Kennedy, zoology graduate,

now a researcher and film maker at the BBC

17

”

The University of Leeds is one of the UK’s top universities.As a member of the Russell Group of Universities it isacclaimed worldwide for the quality of its teaching andresearch, attracting students from the UK and overseas.

FacilitiesAt the University of Leeds you will enjoy first-class facilities,including modern, well-equipped lecture theatres,laboratories and well-stocked libraries (2.9 million items).You will have access to state-of-the-art computing facilitieswith technical support to match. There are approximately1800 PCs in 30 public clusters on campus plusdepartmental computer clusters. A number of these clustersare open twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Wehave a wireless/mobile network on campus allowing studentsto access the University network services from their owncomputers or laptops. The majority of the bedrooms in theUniversity's halls of residence are also networked. TheLanguage Centre offers facilities that can be used by all theUniversity's students, whether learning a foreign language,improving English skills or keeping up to date with worldnews. Find out more about study facilities atwww.leeds.ac.uk/students/study_facilities.htm

We have one of the biggest and best Students’ Unions inthe country and we provide an extensive network ofsupport services to assist you with academic and personalmatters during your time here. For more information aboutthe University, visit www.leeds.ac.uk

Guaranteed accommodationAll single, first year undergraduates who confirm the offerof a place and apply by the deadline are guaranteed aplace in University accommodation as outlined atwww.leeds.ac.uk/accommodation

The city of LeedsLocated at the heart of the UK, Leeds is the capital of theYorkshire and Humber region and is a vibrant andcosmopolitan city that is home to over three-quarters of amillion people. It has a thriving economy and students whocome to Leeds to study often stay on to live and work inthe city after graduation.

With over 50,000 students living and studying in the city,Leeds is very student-centred, with many shops, bars,clubs and restaurants catering for students' needs. Leedshas been consistently voted the UK's most popular studentcity and one of the most cost-effective places to study inthe UK. The city's economic growth has also created manyopportunities for part-time work for students.

Leeds is a centre for entertainment, nightlife, arts,shopping, sport and leisure with a dynamic and diversecultural life. It has all you would expect from a major city,plus it is surrounded by beautiful, accessible countrysideand national parks.

Leeds is also a great sporting city and home to LeedsUnited Football Club, Leeds Rhinos and Leeds Carnegierugby teams, and Yorkshire County Cricket Club.

The city is well served by frequent local transport and hasexcellent links with the rest of the country. There are raillinks to London and other major cities and extensive coachservices connecting Leeds with the rest of the UK.Leeds/Bradford Airport provides regular flights to UK andEuropean destinations including the major hubs ofHeathrow and Amsterdam.

For more information about the city and what's on in Leedsvisit www.leedsliveitloveit.com

Useful linksStudents’ Union: www.luuonline.com

Sport: www.leeds.ac.uk/sport andwww.luuonline.com/studentactivities/sports.php

Health & welfare: www.leeds.ac.uk/students/health.htm

Student support: www.leeds.ac.uk/ssn/index.html

Study skills: www.leeds.ac.uk/skillscentre

Disability services: www.equality.leeds.ac.uk

International Centre: www.leeds.ac.uk/international

Campus tours: www.leeds.ac.uk/campustour

Life in Leeds

18

Admissions

Applications must be made through UCAS (Universities &

Colleges Admissions Service). See www.ucas.com for

details. We consider applications on an individual basis

and in most cases will be able to make you an offer based

on the information in your UCAS form, particularly your

academic achievements, your personal statement, your

referee’s comments, and your predicted exam results.

Please do not hesitate to contact our admissions office for

help and advice. Contact details are on the back page.

Basic requirementsGCSE Maths and English passed at Grade C or equivalent.

BSc Biology, Zoology and Ecology programmesTypical offer: ABB-BBB (or 320-300 points) from 3 A2

Levels including A2 Biology and preferably another science

or science-related subject at A2 Level. General Studies

excluded.

BSc Genetics programmesTypical offer: ABB-BBB (or 320-300 points) from 3 A2

Levels including A2 Chemistry and preferably A2 Biology

or a Biology-related subject. General Studies excluded.

BSc Biological SciencesTypical offer: ABB-BBB (or 320-300 points) from 3 A2

Levels including Biology and preferably another science or

science-related subject at A2 Level. General Studies

excluded.

MBiol, BScAAA-AAB or equivalent.

Other qualifications Other qualifications covered by the UCAS tariff e.g. BTEC

Nationals, Irish Leaving Certificate and Scottish

qualifications that are equivalent to A Level standard are

acceptable; International and European Baccalaureates are

given full consideration. The 14-19 Diploma will be

considered in combination with the two specified A Level

subjects. If you have gained an Access certificate or have

completed a Foundation course, you are encouraged to

apply.

Direct entry to second yearIf you have passed a course similar or equivalent to our

first year course we may accept you directly into the

second year of one of our programmes.

Access schemes The University has a number of schemes for pupils from

Yorkshire schools and colleges such as the Access to

Leeds scheme. More details are available at

www.leeds.ac.uk/ace/access/leeds.htm

Interdisciplinary Science

Foundation ProgrammeIf you are interested in studying at Leeds but do not have

the formal qualifications, you should consider our

foundation course which can lead to entry onto one of our

programmes.

See www.leeds.ac.uk/cjh/foundation/index.htm

International qualificationsWe have many international students and we make offers

to students with most recognised national and

international qualifications on an individual basis.

International students must have evidence of an English

qualification (such as IELTS or TOEFL) or other proficiency

in English. We offer a number of competitive scholarships

to students from outside the UK and European Union.

See www.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/courses/intscholarships

Leeds provides specialist support and advice services to

help make international student life in Leeds enjoyable

and successful.

See www.leeds.ac.uk/international and

www.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/courses/international

Equality and diversityAll applications receive equal treatment, irrespective of

race, gender, educational background, sexual orientation or

disabilities.

Disabled studentsApplicants with disabilities are encouraged to contact:

University of Leeds Disability Team

t +44(0)113 343 3927

e disability@leeds.ac.uk

www.equality.leeds.ac.uk

Open DaysChoosing a university is a major decision and it is

important to visit your prospective place of study. Our pre-

application Open Days are usually in June and September.

We hold talks and practical laboratory demonstrations and

offer the opportunity to meet staff and students. The main

campus is open so you can get a feel for the University.

Open Day dates, timetables and maps can be found at

www.leeds.ac.uk/opendays/index.htm nearer the time.

Post-application visitsIf we make you an offer we will invite you for an informal

visit to look around, meet members of staff and students

and discuss the courses and other matters such as

accommodation. During your visit, current students will

show you around campus and answer questions on what it

is like to study at Leeds. Parents are very welcome.

See www.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/courses/visitdays

19

Biology ProgrammesUndergraduate Admissions Office

Faculty of Biological SciencesLC Miall Building

University of Leeds, LS2 9JT, UKt + 44 (0) 113 343 2829f + 44 (0) 113 343 3091

e biology.admissions@leeds.ac.uk w www.fbs.leeds.ac.uk/admissions

Whilst the University endeavours to ensure that the information contained in thisbrochure is accurate at the date of publication it does not accept liability for anyinaccuracies. The University reserves the right to change or cancel its courses orservices at any time without liability even after students have registered at theUniversity. The University’s contract with its students does not confer third partybenefits for the purpose of Contracts (Right of Third Parties) Act 1999.FBS10BIOL

Information in alternative formats is available upon request