Study biological sciences abroad

Biological science is a broad and flexible program where students study the science behind life. It encompasses several specialist disciplines, including biochemistry, genetics, ecology, and microbiology.

As a biological science student, you’ll put animals, plants, and microorganisms under the microscope. You’ll explore their lifecycles, habitats, and adaptations, as well as getting to grips with their molecular and cellular make-up. The laboratory techniques and research capabilities you’ll gain will be sure to attract the attention of future employers.

Studying overseas is a wonderful chance to break out of your comfort zone and discover more of what the world has to offer. Not only will you come face-to-face with native species and exotic landscapes, but you’ll also encounter new cultures and ways of life.

Bachelor’s degrees in biological science require at least three years of full-time study, but your course will last four years if you complete an industry placement. Sandwich years help you put what you’ve learned into practice and give you a competitive edge in the graduate job market.

If you plan to earn your bachelor’s degree in the US, you’ll also study over four years. Most US universities follow the liberal arts model of education, meaning you’ll take two years of general education classes before beginning your major in biological science.

Lots of biological science graduates continue their education on a postgraduate program. To be successful on these courses, you must narrow your focus and concentrate on a specialized branch of biology. Master’s degrees can take up to two years to finish, while doctorate degrees usually last between four and six years.

Your timetable will consist of theoretical lectures, seminars, and tutorials, as well as practical workshops and laboratories. Assessment methods depend on the elective modules you choose, but written and practical exams, presentations, essays, and research projects are common.

Because you’ll be studying such a far-reaching subject, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to personalize your degree to reflect your interests. However, you’ll first need to build a solid foundation in these core areas:

• Animal biology
• Plant sciences
• Cell and developmental biology
• Fundamentals of biochemistry
• Microbiology
• Human anatomy and physiology
• Molecular cell biology
• Genetics and evolution

The expertise of biological science graduates is always in high demand across areas including healthcare, clinical research, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and education.

You’ll have countless career opportunities at your fingertips, but here are some of the roles your analytical and problem-solving skills would be ideally suited to:

• Clinical research associate
• Microbiologist
• Biomedical scientist
• Forensic scientist
• Pharmacologist
• Toxicologist
• Zoologist
• Science journalist

If you’d like some extra support with navigating the professional world, most universities offer appointments at their employability office. The advisors provide free advice to help you find the career path that’s right for you.