Applied Biology
C110 BSc Applied Biology
C111 MBiol, BSc Applied Biology (Integrated Masters)
Applied Biology looks at the study of how fundamental biological knowledge is put to use.
Leeds, with one of the UK's largest and most diverse biology teaching groups, is well equipped to deliver a top class degree programme.
This course offers:
- exciting and diverse contemporary topics such as parasitology, animal nutrition and metabolism, sustainable food production, animals as pests, human genetics, animal developmental biology and how plants work.
- excellent career prospects
- the opportunity to undertake an integrated masters (MBiol) programme
- a superb location for study sites: North Yorkshire Moors, Yorkshire Dales, Peak District and the Lake District are all nearby
- work with expert researchers during your final year project
- a Faculty ranked 4th in the UK by the leading scientific journal ‘Nature*’
- Leading research centres including the National Pig Development Centre and The Centre for Plant Sciences
- Professor Helen Miller, from the University of Leeds is co-director of the National Pig Development Centre. The research from the centre aims to enable farmers to get the best from their livestock.
- Staff contribute to research in The Centre for Plant Sciences a dynamic research environment for plant research in the areas of cell biology, developmental biology, gene expression, epigenetics, biotechnology and crop science
- Other research is undertaken through the Africa College international research partnership working to improve the lives of the millions of people in sub-Saharan Africa by the sustainable enhancement of their food and nutritional security.
- The largest research group within the Faculty's School of Biology (SBIO) is the Genetics, Ecology and Evolution Group that studies evolution in its widest sense, with research themes spanning the entire spectrum of whole-organism centred research.
- high student satisfaction
*based on the numbers of staff producing research that was “world leading or internationally excellent”
Applied Biology
Applied Biology is the study of how fundamental biological knowledge is put to use. Much that we now take for granted around us, from food to medicines to our environment, involves the applications of biology. Everyone has heard of GM foods, embryonic stem cells, global warming. But how will findings in Biology influence our lives in the future?
Applied Biology graduates will have a key part to play in delivering the benefits of the considerable current financial investment in biological research.
Real life examples from the work of the Leeds team include helping find answers to hunger and malnutrition in Africa, helping reduce pesticide use and misuse in India and Uganda and working with UK animal feed manufacturers to research and advise on pig nutrition.
Why study Applied Biology?
Applied biology provides an excellent understanding of all the aspects of basic biology. It concentrates on how this knowledge can then be implemented for practical purposes. Many issues arise in society related to aspects of biology such as genetics, disease and food security. Such issues can be addressed by the implementation of our scientific understanding within the relevant areas of Applied Biology. Applied Biology can make a dramatic impact on society. At the undergraduate level this course has a focus on issues such as health, plant biotechnology, animal production systems and nutrition, crop protection.
Entry Requirements
2014 entry requirements
BSc Applied Biology - UCAS code C110
A Level or Advanced Higher: AAA-ABB from 3 A2/Advanced Higher including Biology and preferably another science or science-related subject. If Biology is the only science subject then an A grade is required. General Studies excluded.
We consider applications on an
individual basis and an offer will depend on the information given on
your UCAS form. Applications are assessed from a combination of the
following; the balance, nature and quality of A2, AS and GCSE subjects
(or equivalents); the referee's comments and your personal statement.
BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (QCF): DDD in Applied Science, including distinctions the following units: Fundamentals of Science, Mathematical Calculations for Science, Biochemistry and Biochemical Techniques, Genetics and Genetic Engineering, Chemistry for Biology Technicians.
International Baccalaureate: 38 to 34 (with 18-16 at HL) including 6 in HL Biology and another science or science-related subject at HL.
Irish Leaving Certificate: AAAAAB-AAABBB including an A in HL Biology and another science or science-related subject at HL.
Scottish Higher: Scottish Highers not accepted on their own.
Cambridge Pre-U: D3/D3/D3-D3/M2/M2 including Pre-U Biology plus one other science or science-related subject.
Science subjects: Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Physics.
Science- related subjects: Computing, Environmental Science, Food Science, Geography, Geology, ICT, P.E, Psychology, Science in Society, Statistics and Sports Science.
BSc (Hons) Applied Biology with Industrial Placement
If you are interested in this programme, apply via UCAS for the standard BSc programme above. We will provide you with further details of the placement and study abroad schemes in year one, and you can transfer at the end of year two (subject to academic performance).
BSc (Hons) Applied Biology with Study Year Abroad
If you are interested in this programme, apply via UCAS for the standard BSc programme above. We will provide you with further details of the placement and study abroad schemes in year one, and you can transfer at the end of year two (subject to academic performance).
MBiol, BSc Applied Biology (Integrated Masters) - UCAS code C111
A Level or Advanced Higher: AAA from 3 A2/Advanced Higher including Biology and another science or science-related subject. General Studies excluded.
International Baccalaureate: 38 (18 at HL) including 6 in HL Biology and another science or science-related subject at HL.
Irish Leaving Certificate: AAAAAB including an A in HL Biology and another science or science-related subject at HL.
Scottish Higher: Scottish Highers not accepted on their own.
Cambridge Pre-U: D3/D3/D3 including Pre-U Biology plus one other science or science-related subject.
Applications are assessed from a combination of the following; the balance, nature and quality of A2, AS and GCSE subjects (or equivalents); the referee's comments and your personal statement.
Science subjects: Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Physics.
Science- related subjects: Computing, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, ICT, P.E, Psychology, Science in Society, Statistics and Sports Science.
| 2013 entry requirements |
BSc Applied Biology - UCAS code C110A Level or Advanced Higher: AAA-ABB from 3 A2/Advanced Higher including Biology and preferably another science or science-related subject. General Studies excluded. We consider applications on an
individual basis and an offer will depend on the information given on
your UCAS form. Applications are assessed from a combination of the
following; the balance, nature and quality of A2, AS and GSCE subjects
(or equivalents); the referee's comments and your personal statement. BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (QCF): Typically DDD in Applied Science, including the following units: Fundamentals of Science, Mathematical Calculations for Science, Biochemistry and Biochemical Techniques, Genetics and Genetic Engineering, Chemistry for Biology Technicians. International Baccalaureate: 38 to 34 (with 18-16 at HL) including 6 in HL Biology and another science or science-related subject at HL. Irish Leaving Certificate: AAAAAB-AAABBB including an A in HL Biology and another science or science-related subject at HL. Scottish Higher: Scottish Highers not accepted on their own. Cambridge Pre-U: D3/D3/D3-D3/M2/M2 including Pre-U Biology plus one other science or science-related subject. Science subjects: Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Physics.
MBiol, BSc Applied Biology (Integrated Masters) - UCAS code C111A Level or Advanced Higher: AAA from 3 A2/Advanced Higher including Biology and another science or science-related subject. General Studies excluded. International Baccalaureate: 38 (18 at HL) including 6 in HL Biology and another science or science-related subject at HL. Irish Leaving Certificate: AAAAAB including an A in HL Biology and another science or science-related subject at HL. Scottish Higher: Scottish Highers not accepted on their own. Cambridge Pre-U: D3/D3/D3 including Pre-U Biology plus one other science or science-related subject. Applications are assessed from a combination of the following; the balance, nature and quality of A2, AS and GCSE subjects (or equivalents); the referee's comments and your personal statement. Science subjects: Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Physics. |
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| Duration of the course |
3 Years Full Time (C110) 4 Years Full Time (C111) An Industrial Placement or Study Year Abroad will add a year to the duration of the course |
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| English language requirements | If English is not your first language, please check our minimum English language requirements. | ![]() |
| See also | BSc Biology, BSc Biology and History and Philosophy of Science, BSc Biology and Mathematics and MNatSc, BSc Natural Sciences | |
| Admissions policy | Download our Admissions Policy for 2013 entry. (PDF format). This includes information on the application process, our admissions intake and the selection process. | |
| Admissions enquiries | Carolyn Giles Tel. +44/0 113 343 2829 Email: fbsadmissions@leeds.ac.uk |
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Admissions tutor |
Dr Henry Greathead |
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Department |
Faculty of Biological Sciences Undergraduate School |
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Programme Leaders |
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Course brochure |
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Course Structure
The structure of your course will vary depending upon which of the following pathways you choose:
| Qualification | Course Title | Duration |
| BSc | Applied Biology | 3 years |
| BSc | Applied Biology with industrial placement year | 4 years |
| BSc | Applied Biology with a study year abroad | 4 years |
| MBiol, BSc | Applied Biology | 4 years |
| MBiol, BSc | Applied Biology with industrial placement year | 5 years |
| MBiol, BSc | Applied Biology with a study year abroad | 5 years |
BSc Course Structure
You will be taught in a variety of ways. In the first and second years, lectures, practicals and tutorials are the most important forms of teaching. You will have lectures, tutorials, and regular laboratory sessions. For your final year research project, you will be able to choose your favourite topics to study under the guidance of leading experts. Your research project will take up about one third of your time with the rest devoted to lectures and tutorials. Formal examinations are held twice a year, in January and May/June, to spread the assessment load.
Modules
All degree programmes are modular and offer wide choice.
Modules may be core (you have to take them), optional (you can choose from a list of alternatives) or elective (you have a free choice); the balance depends upon your year and programme of study. We offer a wide range of modules. Below is a list of the core modules for each year:
Applied Biology Year 1
Introduction to Cell Biology: from Molecules to Cells and Tissues
Experimental Design and Analytical Skills for Cell Biology and Biochemistry
Diversity of Life: Practicals
The Diversity of Life
Applied Biology and Agriculture
Introduction to Genetics
Practical Genetics
Practical Applied Biology
Introduction to Statistics
Tutorials for Biology and Genetics
Applied Biology Year 2
Enhanced Study Skills for Biologists
Parasitology
Animal Nutrition and Metabolism
How Plants Work
Sustainable Food Production
Animals as Pests
Applied Biology Year 3
Applied Animal Science
Applied Genetics
Applied Plant Science
Animal Metabolism and Nutrition
Module Details
This link takes you to detailed information (on another part of the University of Leeds website) about this degree for the 2012/13 academic year. Please bear in mind that programme details may change and that entry requirements refer to previous years.
Research Projects
Final year students choose an individual project from a wide range of topics to suit their interests and career aspirations. The project is an original laboratory, literature or computer-based study, supervised by an academic member of staff. These projects are an important way for students to learn about independent scientific research and develop important skills for future employment.
Visit the Studying with us pages to find out more about studying in the Faculty of Biological Sciences Undergraduate School.
MBiol Course structure
To find out more about how the MBiol differs from the BSc programme, download our PDF guide to MBiol degrees.
Module details
This link takes you to detailed information (on another part of the University of Leeds website) about this degree for the 2012/13 academic year. Please bear in mind that programme details may change and that entry requirements may refer to previous years.
Please be aware that course details do change from time to time. ...
... If in doubt, please contact us to verify course content and availability. Whilst the University endeavours to ensure that the information on this website is accurate at the date of publication it does not accept liability for any inaccuracies. The University reserves the right to change or cancel its courses or services at any time without liability even after students have registered at the University. The University's contract with its students does not confer third party benefits for the purposes of Contracts (Right of Third Parties) Act 1999.
Teaching and Assessment
Our approach to teaching and learning is based around developing your knowledge and skills, and training you to be independent and to think critically. As well as independent study, you will learn in many different ways:
- Lectures
- Tutorials
- Practical work
- Field courses
- E-learning
- Research-based teaching
- Research projects
- Research placement opportunities
- Industrial/professional placement opportunities
- Study year abroad opportunities
Typical timetable (3 year BSc)
A typical week:
- in year one includes twelve hours of lectures, a three hour practical session in the lab, additional workshop and seminar sessions, plus private study.
- in year two includes nine hours of lectures and nine hours of practicals, with a one hour tutorial or workshop, plus private study.
- in year three week includes nine hours of lectures and extended time in a research laboratory, plus private study.
Assessment
We use a variety of assessment methods including:
- multiple-choice testing
- practical work
- data handling and problem-solving exercises
- group work
- discussion groups (physical and online)
- computer-based simulation
- essays
- posters and oral presentations
Current assessment details for each individual module can be accessed via the programme catalogue.
Careers
Applied Biology graduates enjoy excellent career prospects as the transferable skills gained are sought after for scientific and non-scientific careers alike.
Applied Biology Careers
Scientific careers
Biology is a wide-ranging subject that can take you into many occupations e.g. medical scientists, biotechnologists, teachers, ecologists, forensic scientists, genetic counsellors, neurobiologists, dietitians, agricultural scientists, conservationists, geneticists, veterinary scientists, marine biologists and many more.
Non-scientific professions
Our graduates acquire skills of numeracy, analytical thinking, and creativity in problem solving and data-handling, all of which equips them for jobs in non-scientific careers e.g. sales and marketing, accountancy, finance, patent work and journalism.
Further study
Graduates also go on to further study including PhD, Masters Degrees and PGCE.
Careers Support
Faculty careers events
We organise regular careers workshops especially for biological sciences students. We also organise an annual Bioscience Careers Networking Event, offering a chance to meet bioscience employers, speak to alumni, attend workshops and get masses of information. Browse the careers fair photo gallery.
University Careers Service
Our on-campus Careers Centre is one of the largest in the country, with experienced advisers and strong relationships with graduate recruiters. The Careers Centre will help you to find out how to develop your employability right from the start and provide support after you graduate. Find out what the Careers Centre has to offer.
Gaining work experience
Work experience is increasingly important in a competitive job market and Leeds offers many opportunities to gain experience and develop skills valuable to employers, including our industrial placement and year abroad schemes, laboratory placement schemes, and volunteering via Leeds for Life.
Industrial Advisory Board
Our Industrial Advisory Board gives employers the chance to input directly into programme and module content. This ensures that our programmes include appropriate training and skills so that our students and graduates are desirable to a broad range of graduate employers.
Join a global network of Leeds graduates
A remarkable variety of opportunities result from our relationships with our graduates, including access to the Leeds Graduate Careers Network.
Read about BSc Applied Biology graduates...
- Dr Mark Kerrigan (1999); Senior Lecturer at the University of Greenwich
- Selina Bailey (2004); Assistant Quality and Compliance Manager, Bioanalytical Sciences Division
Careers resources
For more information on our approach to graduate employability, please see: www.leeds.ac.uk/employability
Field Courses
We see great value in the learning opportunities offered by practical field courses and offer field courses for undergraduates.
Not only are field courses highly enjoyable, but participants benefit from:
- Applying university-learnt techniques in real life situations
- Individual and team working
- High staff /student ratios
- Tutor support on location
- First-hand experience of collecting and analysing data
- Opportunies to develop individual research skills
- Skills development valued by employers after graduation
- A chance to get to know staff and fellow students even better
Optional Field Courses for Applied Biology students
What will it cost?
2012 entry - Any field courses that are compulsory for your degree programme will be free of charge, however, for optional field courses you will be charged relevant out of pocket costs (principally travel, subsistence, accommodation and insurance), for which there may be help available.


