University of Reading United Kingdom

BSc Biological Sciences with Foundation

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree With Integrated Foundation Year
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Embark on a transformative journey with the BSc Biological Sciences with Foundation at the University of Reading, a comprehensive undergraduate degree designed for those passionate about understanding life's intricate mechanisms. This programme equips you to explore the fundamental principles of cellular and molecular biology, microbiology, evolution, and the history of life on Earth. You will develop a strong foundation in scientific inquiry, laboratory techniques, and data interpretation, preparing you for advanced study and a career dedicated to addressing critical challenges in health, environment, and scientific research.

This full-time, on-campus degree is structured over four years, including a foundational year to build essential scientific and academic skills. Throughout your studies, you will engage with diverse subjects such as anatomy and physiology, genetics, and ecology, with opportunities to specialise through a wide array of optional modules and practical field courses. Your learning culminates in a significant research project, allowing you to apply your knowledge independently. You will graduate with a deep understanding of biological sciences and the practical expertise to pursue diverse roles in research, healthcare, conservation, and biotechnology.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BSc Biological Sciences with Foundation program provides a comprehensive introduction to the life sciences, beginning with foundational biology, chemistry, and academic skills. Subsequent years delve into cellular and molecular principles, microbiology, anatomy, physiology, and evolution. Advanced studies in the later years explore specialized areas such as immunology, ecology, marine biology, and bioinformatics, culminating in a compulsory research project and specialized modules like venoms and poisons.

1 Foundation Year

Foundation Biology Compulsory
Chemistry Compulsory
Mathematics Foundation Compulsory
Foundation in Academic Skills Compulsory

2 YEAR 1

Cellular and Molecular Principles of Life Compulsory
Fundamentals of Microbiology Compulsory
Anatomy and Physiology Compulsory
Fundamentals of Evolution Compulsory
History of Life on Earth Compulsory
Fundamentals of Biochemistry Optional
Fundamentals of Ecology Optional

3 YEAR 2

Advanced Studies in Cellular and Molecular Biology Compulsory
Research and Professional Skills Compulsory
Applied Biochemistry: From Disease to Diagnostics Optional
Haematology and Immunology Optional
Comparative Vertebrate Biology Optional
UK Biodiversity Field Course Optional
Advanced Ecology Optional
Marine Biology and Conservation Optional
Molecular Microbiology Optional
Infectious Diseases Optional
Medical Genetics Optional
Invertebrate Zoology Optional
Palaeobiology Optional
Animal Behaviour Optional
Integrated Anatomy and Physiology Optional
Conservation Science in Practice Optional
Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Optional

4 YEAR 3

Research Project Compulsory
Venoms and Poisons: From Pharmacology to Therapeutics Compulsory
Evolution in Health and Disease Optional
Pathogens Optional
Protein Structure and Function Optional
Cancer and Cell Communication Optional
Microbiology Field Course Optional
Palaeoecology Research Field Course Optional
Marine Biology Field Course Optional
Epidemiology of Zoonotic Diseases Optional
Forensics Optional
Applied Microbiology Optional
Integrated Biochemistry Optional
Neuroscience Optional
Cardiovascular Biology Optional
Ecology of Urban Areas Optional
Innovation and Product Development Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 40,483.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 40,483.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 40,483.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 40,483.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 161,933.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 467.00 - USD 1,787.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 8,200.00
Transport USD 903.00 - USD 935.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,093.00 - USD 2,616.00
Estimated Total USD 6,218.00 - USD 11,228.00

Living cost estimates are based on London Road Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Agricultural Research & DevelopmentCoal & Consumable FuelsEnergy Engineering & InfrastructureEnergy Storage & TechnologyHome Health & Long‑Term CareMental Health & CounselingNuclear EnergyOil & Gas Exploration & ProductionPower Generation & UtilitiesSupply Chain & Commodity Trading

Top Employers Hiring for this course

AstraZeneca

Environment Agency

NHS

Natural England

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Why Study BSc Biological Sciences with Foundation at University of Reading

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Reading in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BSc Biological Sciences with Foundation at University of Reading

Can I work while studying?

As an international student in the UK, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time while studying for a degree. You can work full-time during breaks, with no separate work permit needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you can take tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE, with specific score requirements for each. For example, Duolingo requires an overall score of 125 and specific scores in comprehension, conversation, and other areas.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Possible job titles include Ecologist, Wildlife Biologist, Conservation Scientist, Research Scientist, and Laboratory Technician.

What will I actually study in this course?

This BSc Biological Sciences with Foundation course is ideal for anyone who is passionate about all aspects of biology, and can be tailored to match your interests.

Our BSc Biological Sciences with Foundation is a four-year programme that includes a year of foundational study and leads directly into the three-year course.

The majority of modules in BSc Biological Sciences are optional, giving you the opportunity to cover a broad range of topics or specialise in a particular

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BSc Biological Sciences with Foundation course begins in September each year. It’s a four-year program that includes a foundational year followed by three years of specialized study.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️