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 new 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 Placement year, which is intercalated between the second and final years of the course, is invaluable in providing students with opportunities for networking, on-the-job training and honing professional skills early on.
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.
Second year
Your core material includes gene technology and evolutionary biology, plus a choice of optional modules.
Third year (Placement year)
During the second year, students prepare their placement applications, aided by a range of support mechanisms. We have a large database of organisations that accept placement students, and are frequently approached by companies or organisations offering placement opportunities in the UK and elsewhere in Europe. The placement year is academically assessed by a report and a seminar presentation at the conclusion of the year.
Fourth year
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.
Central to your final-year studies is your research project, which makes up one-sixth of the year. We offer you the opportunity to join one of our research groups, where there are almost 60 to choose from, providing the fascinating opportunity to experience research first hand and to contribute to current research projects in the department. Project work does not necessarily mean you are in the laboratory; some students will do computer-based projects.
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.
In today’s competitive jobs market having work experience will look excellent on your CV. The experience of working as a professional bioscientist during the course of your degree will also help you to defne your career objectives.
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.
On the ‘professional placement’ degree programmes, you will follow the same modular structure as students on the mainstream programmes for the first two years. We will guide you through the process of selecting and applying to suitable employers for your placement year. Your third year will be spent working in your chosen placement; we will keep in touch with you during the year by visiting you in the workplace. On your return you will join the fnal year of the degree programme. Students returning from their placement are often better organised, more confident and motivated and have improved academic performance when they graduate.
For more detailed descriptions of individual modules download Human Biology Module Descriptions (PDF 385KB).
First Year
All Human Biology students take the same modules in the first year.
Modules
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
In the second year you have a mixture of core modules and options; as well as courses from the School of Biosciences you can choose from 2 Sportex modules.
Core modules
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Molecular Biology and its Applications
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Human Evolution, Adaptation and Behaviour
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Communication and Skills in Biosciences
Optional modules - choose 4 from
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Genetics II
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Cell Biology
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Microbes and Man
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Topics in Medical Biosciences
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Cell and Developmental Biology
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Animal Sensory Systems, Neurobiology and Behaviour
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Membranes, Energy and Metabolism
Third year (Placement year)
During the second year, students prepare their placement applications, aided by a range of support mechanisms. We have a large database of organisations that accept placement students, and are frequently approached by companies or organisations offering placement opportunities in the UK and elsewhere in Europe. The placement year is academically assessed by a report and a seminar presentation at the conclusion of the year.
Fourth Year
The final year is made up of a mixture of taught modules and independent study.
Optional modules - choose 4 from:
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Human Reproductive Biology and Development
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Human Evolution
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Cancer Biology
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Mechanisms of Toxicity and Human
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Disease Processes
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Molecular Basis of Bacterial Infection
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Molecular and Cellular Immunology
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Cellular Neurobiology
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Genetic Variation in Humans and other Eukaryotes
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Cellular Signalling
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Eukaryotic Gene Expression
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Advanced Topics in Animal Behaviour
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Integrated Whole-Organism Biology
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Applied and Environmental Microbiology
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 Professional Placement 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 three year course should they fail to meet the higher, but meet 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 changing your registration to one of our three-year degree courses during the second year.
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