Biological Sciences with Professional Experience University of Reading

Overview

The majority of modules on this Biological Sciences with Professional Experience course offered at  University of Reading are optional, giving you the opportunity to cover a broad range of topics or specialise in a particular area such as ecology and wildlife or human biology. Your third year will consist of a work placement, which you can choose based on your career goals.

Key facts

You will be taught by experts in their fields and have access to a range of research facilities. 91% of BSc Biological Sciences students said the course has developed the knowledge and skills they think they will need for their future (National Student Survey 2025, 91.3% of responders from BSc Biological Sciences).

Within environmental biology options you will develop an understanding of ecology, conservation biology and humankind's impact on biodiversity. The University of Reading’s award-winning campus is home to over 1,000 different animal species and is extremely useful for learning fieldwork skills. It also features the Cole Museum of Zoology and a herbarium, which house vast collections and offer volunteering opportunities. Additionally, you will have the chance to apply your scientific knowledge to a range of other habitats through our optional field courses. These last for up to two weeks and take place in Devon, Canada and South Africa.

Within biomedical subjects you will develop an understanding of human physiology and the basis of disease. The course has a strong practical element, and you will gain valuable experience of laboratory work and learn key molecular genetic and cell biology techniques. During your final year will have the chance to spend 11 weeks working on an original research project using cutting edge facilities and equipment. Previous topics include gene therapy of muscular dystrophy, emerging viral infections, the regulation of the stress response, stem cell biology, the spread of cancer and the control of blood clotting.