University of Exeter United Kingdom

MSci Biological Sciences

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The MSci Biological Sciences at the University of Exeter provides you with a comprehensive understanding of modern biology, from the molecular to the ecological level. You will explore core areas such as animals, cells, biochemistry, genetics, microbiology, and plants, gaining essential research skills and bioethics knowledge. This rigorous undergraduate degree is ideal for students passionate about understanding life's complexities and contributing to fields like biotechnology, conservation, and medical research, preparing you for advanced scientific inquiry.

This full-time, four-year on-campus programme integrates theoretical learning with practical application. In your second year, you will build a foundation for independent work with a compulsory research skills module, choosing optional subjects that may include field courses. The final two years focus on advanced modules and an extensive independent research project, potentially field or lab-based, aligned with the University of Exeter's leading research groups. You will graduate with the analytical and research expertise sought after in diverse scientific careers.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MSci in Biological Sciences program offers a comprehensive exploration of life sciences, beginning with foundational principles in animals, plants, cells, genetics, and microbiology. Subsequent years delve into advanced topics such as research skills, bioethics, molecular biology, and various specialized fields like marine biology, ecology, and forensic science. The curriculum culminates in a significant research project and proposal, allowing students to investigate frontiers in areas like immunology, bioinformatics, and disease biology.

1 Year 1

Animals Compulsory
Biochemistry Compulsory
Fundamental Principles for Bioscientists Compulsory
Genetics Compulsory
Ecology Compulsory
Microbiology Compulsory
Plants Compulsory
Cells Compulsory

2 Year 2

Research Skills and Bioethics Compulsory
Forensic Science
Marine Biology
Ecology and Environment
Coral Reef Field Course
Animal Ecophysiology
Metabolism
Advanced Cell Biology
Molecular Biology of the Gene
Analytical Techniques in Biochemistry
Genomics and Introductory Bioinformatics
Modern Theories of Evolution
Practical Skills in Field Ecology
Molecular Plant Science
Advanced Microbiology
Employability and Workplace Learning
Medical Genetics
Observations and Experiments in Animal Behaviour
Wild Behaviour
The Biology of Cancer

3 Year 3

Biosciences Research Project Compulsory
Ecology of Environmental Change
Pharmacology and Medicinal Chemistry
Frontiers in Plant Biology
Advanced Applications of Physiology
Ecotoxicology
Frontiers in Molecular Cell Biology
Cellular Basis of Immunity
Science Communication
Current Issues in Marine Biology
Horizons of Biochemical Research
Cell Biology of Disease
Bioinformatics
Energy Metabolism
Living in a Microbial World
Biology of Marine Vertebrates
Psychology Applied to Health
Beyond the Frontiers of Medical Mycology
Molecular Biology of Bacterial Infection
Sustainable Nutrition

4 Final year

Research Project Compulsory
Research Grant Proposal Compulsory
Secondary Metabolites
Cellular Basis of Immunity
Bioinformatics
Energy Metabolism
Medical Mycology
Ecology of Environmental Change
Ecotoxicology
Frontiers in Plant Biology
Living in a Microbial World
Frontiers in Molecular Cell Biology
Cell Biology of Disease
Biology of Marine Vertebrates
Current Issues in Marine Biology
Advanced Applications of Physiology
Blue Planet
Bioimaging
Beyond the Frontiers of Medical Mycology
Molecular Biology of Bacterial Infection

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 42,173.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 42,173.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 42,173.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 42,173.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 168,692.00

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

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on Streatham Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

92%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Agricultural Technology & Precision FarmingCreative Production & Project ManagementDefense & Military SecurityDigital MarketingEnergy Policy & RegulationEnergy Trading & MarketsEnvironmental & Sustainability ServicesFisheries & AquacultureNuclear EnergySoftware Development & Engineering

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amgen

AstraZeneca

Environment Agency

GSK

NHS

Thermo Fisher Scientific

University of Exeter

University of Oxford

Why Study MSci Biological Sciences at University of Exeter

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Life at University of Exeter 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 MSci Biological Sciences at University of Exeter

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. Full-time work is allowed during breaks without needing a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English proficiency, the required scores vary by test: Duolingo 120 overall, TOEFL 90 overall, IELTS 6.5 overall, and PTE 67 overall. Ensure you meet these minimum requirements for admission.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates may pursue careers as research scientists, microbiologists, laboratory technicians, conservationists, or health and safety officers.

What will I actually study in this course?

Overview

  • Tailor your programme to your interests, potentially culminating in a named specialism. These include Animal Biology, Microbiology and Infectious Disease, and Molecular and Cellular Biology
  • Optional residential field courses in the UK and abroad
  • The opportunity to apply your skills in practical settings throughout your studies provides a variety of employment and further study opportunities after you graduate
  • Our four-year programme includes

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MSci Biological Sciences program has an intake in January. Make sure to check application deadlines and prepare your documents in advance.
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