BSc (Honours) in Biology

Knowledge and understanding

On completion of this qualification, you’ll have knowledge and understanding of:

• The fundamental concepts, principles, theories, methods and language used in the main branches of biology and their role in the world around us
• The inherent variability of biological systems
• At least one selected area of biology is at the forefront of the discipline, informed by independent research.

Cognitive skills

On completion of this qualification, you’ll be able to:

• Apply conceptual understanding of biological knowledge to devise and implement research strategies, develop and present reasoned arguments, and solve problems in both familiar and unfamiliar contexts
• Identify, interpret, analyse, critically evaluate and synthesise biological information from a variety of sources
• Review, consolidate and extend your knowledge and understanding of biological subjects.

Practical and professional skills

On completion of this qualification, you’ll be able to:

• Conduct practical investigations in a responsible, safe and ethical manner, taking proper account of risk assessment and health and safety considerations
• Obtain, record, collate and analyse data derived from practical investigations and/or fieldwork using appropriate numerical skills and statistical methods, and interpret and report their significance, taking into consideration underlying theory, practical issues and relevant information from other sources
• Initiate, design, conduct and report on investigations that may involve the acquisition of primary or secondary data
• Take personal responsibility to identify goals and organise your tasks effectively, recognising the necessity for continuing development personally, professionally and in your studies.

Key skills

On completion of this qualification, you’ll be able to:

• Communicate biological data, information, arguments and ideas accurately and effectively using written, oral, visual and numerical forms in a style that suits the purpose and audience
• Select and apply appropriate quantitative methods and tools, appreciating the limits of accuracy and precision in biological measurements
• Use a range of digital practices and tools to retrieve, use, create, analyse and share relevant data, information and knowledge from a variety of sources
• Apply the methods and techniques you’ve learned, to initiate and carry out research projects, developing your project management skills
• Work effectively with others to explore aspects of biology, enhance your learning, and achieve joint outcomes, developing your team building and leadership skills.

This degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.

• In Stage 1, you’ll study two 60-credit modules.
• In Stage 2, you’ll study two 30-credit modules and choose 60 credits of option modules.
• In Stage 3, you’ll study one 60-credit module, choose one 30-credit module and complete a 30-credit project module.

Stage 1 (120 credits)

You'll study both of the following:

• Questions in science (S111)
• Science: concepts and practice (S112)

Stage 2 (120 credits)

You'll study both of the following:

• Cell and molecular biology (S296)
• The biology of survival (S295)

You'll choose 60 credits from:

• Environmental science (S206)
• Brain, mind and mental health (SK298)
• Human biology (SK299)
• Investigative approaches in biology and chemistry (S285)

Stage 3 (120 credits)

You'll study the following:

• Biological science: from genes to species (S317)

You'll choose one from:

• Evaluating contemporary science (S350)
• Infectious disease and public health (SK320)
• Signals and perception: the science of the senses (SD329)
• Terrestrial ecosystems (S397)

You'll study the following:

• Science project module: biology (SXB390)

Assessment

Our assessments are all designed to reinforce your learning and help you show your understanding of the topics. The mix of assessment methods will vary between modules.

Computer-Marked Assignments

• Usually, a series of online, multiple-choice questions.

Tutor-Marked Assignments

• You’ll have a number of these throughout each module, each with a submission deadline.
• They can be made up of essays, questions, experiments or something else to test your understanding of what you have learned.
• Your tutor will mark and return them to you with detailed feedback.

End-of-Module Assessments

• The final, marked piece of work on most modules.
• Modules with an end-of-module assessment won’t usually have an exam.

Exams

• Some modules end with an exam. You’ll be given time to revise and prepare.
• You’ll be given your exam date at least 5 months in advance.
• Most exams take place remotely, and you will complete them at home or an alternative location.
• If a module requires you to take a face-to-face exam, this will be made clear in the module description, and you will be required to take your exam in person at one of our exam centres.

Skills for career development

On completion of your biology degree, you’ll be an adaptable graduate with a range of transferable skills that are highly valued in the wider jobs market. You’ll have developed analytical, numerical and problem-solving abilities and gained proficiency in data handling, and using computers as well as have teamwork and communication skills. Employers may also look for evidence of practical laboratory or fieldwork experience to support the skills gained throughout the degree. Even if your future job doesn’t involve practical work, your experiences of designing, carrying out, troubleshooting and persistence in online or home-based investigations demonstrate valuable employability requirements.

Career relevance

Employers of biology graduates include central and local government, the NHS, the water and horticultural industries, food and drink companies, media and communications, multinational oil companies, the pharmaceutical industry, conservation bodies, schools and universities – in roles such as:

• Biotechnology and biomedical engineering
• Data analysis, bioinformatics, and diagnostics
• Environmental management, protection, and conservation
• Exploration and extraction of natural resources
• Health and healthcare-related professions
• Product design and development
• Research, investigation, and laboratory work
• Science information management
• Science communication
• Scientific and medical sales
• Teaching (science is a shortage subject at the secondary school level; there may be training incentives)
• Waste management, recycling, and sustainability

Other careers

Biology graduates displaying self-awareness, interpersonal skills and problem-solving abilities are well-placed to enter scientific and non-scientific careers. The logical approach developed is relevant to a range of employment sectors including financial, business and the public sector. OU study prepares you for careers beyond your degree subject keeping future options open.

With our unique approach to distance learning, you can study from home, work or on the move.

You’ll have some assessment deadlines to meet, but otherwise, you’ll be free to study at the times that suit you, fitting your learning around work, family, and social life.

For each of your modules, you’ll use either just online resources or a mix of online and printed materials.

Each module you study will have a module website with

• A week-by-week study planner, giving you a step-by-step guide through your studies
• Course materials such as reading, videos, recordings, and self-assessed activities
• Module forums for discussions and collaborative activities with other students
• Details of each assignment and their due dates
• A tutorial booking system, online tutorial rooms, and your tutor’s contact details
• Online versions of some printed module materials and resources.