Details
We are all fascinated by how our bodies work. Recent exciting advances such as the human genome sequence or the culturing of pluripotent stem cells have given human biology fascinating new perspectives and promise novel avenues to treat complex diseases. Over the next decade, we will see the impact of these developments in our daily lives, especially in areas such as medicine and health.
Our Human Biology programme draws on our research expertise in this area. The flexible modular course structure allows students in the second and final year to tailor their programme of study to individual interests and ambitions. The course particularly emphasises practical training and research skills, as well as the development of transferable skills that can be deployed in a wide range of professional settings. The Masters year, which extends the 3-year BSc programme into a fourth year, is devoted to developing research competence through a multi-faceted teaching and research programme.
Course structure
First year
The first year will cover a broad spectrum of topics and skills essential to the training as a biologist. You will study areas such as cell biology, physiology, development and genetics. A set of current first year modules is shown below:
Second year
Your core material includes gene technology and evolutionary biology, plus a choice of optional modules.
Third year
The final year features a single compulsory module - Biology, Communication and the Media - with a wide range of optional modules. Final year modules are strongly influenced by current areas of research in the School of Biosciences, reflecting exciting developments in the field of human biology and medicine.
In the third year, you will have the opportunity to perform a small research project, which can involve either laboratory-based research or an extensive review of the current research literature in a given area.
Fourth year (Masters year)
The final year is devoted to developing and honing research skills. The central element to achieve competence in research is the research project, which extends over both semesters of the year and which takes up about 50% of the work effort. In addition, you will attend two skills modules Research Development and Research Techniques, as well as a taught module drawn from the specialist modules of the third year. The programme involves mandatory attendance at research seminars given by external researchers visiting the School, which are documented through extended summaries, and data handling and problem solving sessions, including the development of a grant proposal and business plan.
Why study this course
We have a large and internationally recognised School of Biosciences offering expertise that is the foundation of our research-led teaching.
You will encounter a broad range of topics on our courses, ranging from studies on the three-dimensional structure of individual molecules through to the study of whole ecosystems. We pride ourselves in our ‘enquiry-based learning’ strategy that will equip you with the skills to achieve full potential in your future career.
We increasingly incorporate new areas of science relating to biology, such as bioinformatics, and the School has major high-technology facilities for research in genomics, structural biology and optical imaging.
Specialist field courses for those involved in the study of animals, plants and ecological aspects are also available. You also have the opportunity to study part of the course abroad or in industry.
2011 National Student Survey "96% of students said that overall they were satisfied with the quality of our Biology and Related Sciences courses"
To begin with you may find university level education challenging, but we will support you to enable you to make this transition. You will have access to a comprehensive support system in the School, including personal tutors and welfare tutors, who can help with both academic and welfare issues throughout your course. You will have a formal transition review during your first year to check on your progress and identify areas where you may need some additional support, and the School’s academic small group tutorial system will provide you with skills based support throughout the course.
Modules
When you study human biology you will focus on aspects of biology which are most relevant to our own species. You will study genetics, physiology, cell biology, evolution and development.
The flexible modular structure allows you to determine the flavour of your degree in Human Biology. You take a mixture of core and optional modules
For more detailed descriptions of individual modules download Human Biology Module Descriptions (PDF 385KB).
First year
A set of current first year modules is shown below:
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Skills for Biosciences
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Human Biochemistry
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Biochemistry
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Cell Biology & Physiology
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Microbiology and Infectious Disease
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Genetics I
Beth Pattle, first year student "I chose human biology because I really felt that I wanted to specialise after previously studying a wide spectrum of topics at A level. I have thoroughly enjoyed my first year; it is hard work butvery rewarding."
Second Year
Your core material includes gene technology and evolutionary biology, plus a choice of optional modules:
Core modules:
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Core skills in biosciences
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Molecular biology and its applications
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Human Evolution: Adaptation and Behaviour
Elective modules (choice of three):
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Topics in medical biosciences
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Cell Biology
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Membranes, Energy and Metabolism
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Developmental Biology
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Genetics II
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Animal Sensory Systems: Neurobiology and behaviour
Third year
The final year features a single compulsory module - Biology, Communication and the Media - with a wide range of optional modules. You can choose from modules including:
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Cancer Biology
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Mechanisms of Toxicity and Disease
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Molecular Basis of Bacterial Infection
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Human Reproductive Biology and Development
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Molecular and Cellular Basis of Human Disease Processes
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Cellular Neurobiology
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Genetic Variation in Humans and other Eukaryotes
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Human Evolution
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Molecular and Cellular Immunology
In the third year, you will have the opportunity to perform a small research project, which can involve either laboratory-based research or an extensive review of the current research literature in a given area.
Fourth year (Masters year)
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Research project
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Research development
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Research techniques
Dr Eva Hyde, Leader of the Undergraduate Masters programme "The MSci course was inaugurated in October 2009 and, with my colleagues, I have tried to create a course in which individual students can largely pursue their own biological interests. At the same time, we aim to further develop skills that are important not only for scientific research but in a wide range of careers."
Fees and funding
Entry requirements
Number of A levels required: 3
Typical offer: AAA-AAB
Required subjects and grades: Biology/Human Biology A level and one other from Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental Studies, Geography, Geology, ICT, Maths, Physics, Psychology or Sports Studies/PE.
General Studies: We do not accept General Studies, Critical Thinking, Citizenship Studies, Applied Science, Communication and Culture, Critical Studies, Global Perspectives, Science in Society and World Development.
Additional information:
GCSE requirements: Five GCSEs at grade C (minimum) including English and Mathematics and grade B in Chemistry (or Double Award/Integrated Science) if Chemistry is not offered at A or AS Level.
The typical offer for the MSci course is higher than that for the corresponding three-year BSc degree course. However, all candidates who firmly accept the offer as their first choice will be automatically offered a place on the corresponding BSc course should they fail to meet the MSci offer while meeting the standard offer.
BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (Applied Science) is accepted only in combination with a science subject at GCE A2 level at grade A. Other qualifications are considered – learn more about entry requirements.
International students:
International Baccalaureate Diploma: 35-36 points excluding bonus points from TOK and Extended Essay. 6, 6, 5 at HL to include Biology and one other science at HL. 5 points in each of SL English and Maths if not offered at GCSE or equivalent.
Standard English language requirements apply
Learn more about international entry requirements
Depending on your chosen course of study, you may also be interested in the Birmingham Foundation Academy, a specially structured programme for international students whose qualifications are not accepted for direct entry to UK universities. Further details can be found on the foundation academy web pages.
How to apply
Apply through UCAS at www.ucas.com
Learn more about applying
NB You should apply through UCAS for your preferred four-year option at the outset. You will still retain the flexibility of switching your registration to one of our three-year degree courses during the second year.
Key Information Set (KIS)
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