Undergraduate BSc (Hons)
Biology
with a Foundation Year
Discover Biology as the science of life and shape a sustainable future.
Discover Biology as the science of life and shape a sustainable future.
Biomedical science is the fundamental building block of medical practice. Without a deep understanding of the body, healthcare practitioners cannot diagnose and treat illnesses and diseases, such as cancer. At Kent, we equip you with the skill set you need for a successful career within the world of biomedical science or beyond.
This is an excellent conversion course for applicants who don't meet the academic requirements for direct entry but have shown academic ability in non-science subjects.
Our Biomedical Science degree is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and the Royal Society of Biology (RSB). Our four-year Biomedical Science with a Sandwich Year programme has Advanced Accreditation. Students graduating from RSB recognised courses are eligible for associate membership and are entitled to two years’ membership at half price.
You have the chance to take a paid Summer Studentship after your second year, giving you valuable hands-on experience in our research labs.
The School of Biosciences has added to its impressive array of professional recognition, with Society of Biology.
Professor Dan Mulvihill explains the benefits of studying Biology at Kent.
Regular investment in our laboratories ensures you learn in a world-class environment.
Kent researchers are helping to tackle Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), one of the biggest killers in young athletes.
Our typical offer levels are listed below and include indicative contextual offers. If you hold alternative qualifications just get in touch and we'll be glad to discuss these with you.
CDD including either a Science subject (i.e. Biology, Chemistry, Physics), Sport, Psychology or Mathematics at grade D OR CCC including at least two subjects from the following areas: humanities, computing, art and design, English language or literature.
The University will consider applicants holding BTEC National Diploma and Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF;OCR) on a case by case basis. Subjects likely to be acceptable are Applied Science, Biomedical Science and Medical Science. Typical offers when made are Merit, Merit, Pass. Please contact us via the enquiries tab for further advice on your individual circumstances.
80 Tariff points, typically H5, H4, H4 from three HL subjects including HL Science subject, Sport, Psychology or Maths at 4 or SL Science subject, Sport, Psychology or Maths at 6
Mathematics grade C/4
N/A
Pass overall in Science with C or more in the core components.
The University welcomes applications from Access to Higher Education Diploma candidates for consideration. A typical offer may require you to obtain a proportion of Level 3 credits in relevant subjects at merit grade or above.
The following modules are what students typically study, but this may change year to year in response to new developments and innovations.
Since the dawn of time, humans have explored the natural world that surrounds us. Questions like, “What is life?” and “How did it all begin?” are essential because they intersect with virtually every aspect of human thought and activity, from the search for knowledge and meaning to the practical implications for science, ethics, and society.
The foundations of biological and chemical sciences are built on a set of fundamental principles and concepts that underpin the structure, behaviour, and interactions of matter and life. These foundations are vital for understanding the complexity of living organisms and the chemical processes that sustain them.
In this module you’ll begin an exciting journey into these scientific principles, starting from the structure of simple atoms and molecules to the incredible complexity of the human genome. You’ll investigate the building blocks of matter and examine how atoms form complex molecules, which ultimately give rise to living organisms.
Experiments are the building blocks of scientific enquiry, and in our Scientific Methods and Data Handling module, you will ignite your curiosity while gathering critical practical experience, skills and confidence in conducting scientific experiments.
You will test hypotheses with a series of engaging laboratory classes that investigate the science that surrounds us. You will analyse your own experimental data, develop your numeracy and data handling skills and use appropriate software to draw meaningful conclusions.
By blending theoretical understanding with practical laboratory investigations within natural science disciplines, you’ll be equipped with the tools necessary to progress in scientific inquiry and analysis. By the end of the module, you’ll have the competence and confidence in your academic abilities to operate effectively in a professional scientific context.
How and why are molecules fundamental to human life? What reactions take place in the cells of every organism to make them work? In this module, you’ll continue your journey into the foundations of scientific theory and method and find answers to questions like these.
You will learn the essential proteins and enzymes that exist in everyday life, the metabolic processes that allow us to create energy, and some of the chemistry that underpins these processes such as equilibria, acids and bases. Through engaging problem-solving exercises and interactive, thought-provoking lectures, you will deepen your academic knowledge in these areas, and explore the factors that drive chemical and biological processes.
After completing the module, you’ll be familiar with essential scientific principles. This will help you develop your interests further within your selected degree course and set you up for future success.
What is science, and how does research help advance scientific understanding? What are the steps to the scientific research process and what are the things to consider when conducting it? In this module, you’ll outline the essential steps associated with undertaking scientific research, and consider issues related to the experimental process and statistics.
You’ll undertake experiments that develop proficiency in collecting, analysing, and interpreting large data sets. You’ll also develop your ability to communicate with authority as a scientist and improve your skills in academic writing and referencing, information retrieval and analysis, and effective presentation.
By the end of this module, you’ll be able to think and operate professionally as a scientist, so you can explore the questions that matter to you and get answers. You’ll build on your scientific abilities and develop the transferable skills needed for both further academic study and future employability.
Do you want to unlock the mysteries of life within us? Studying human biology and genetics provides insights into the workings of the human body, from fundamental cellular processes to complex physiological systems. Grounded in fundamental biological principles, you’ll explore the intricate functions of human tissues and organs, gaining insight into their roles in sustaining life.
You’ll examine the essential principles of genetic inheritance and the factors driving genetic variation, laying the groundwork for understanding the diversity of human traits. By understanding the processes that keep our organs working well, you’ll begin to understand how diseases emerge. By the end of the module, you’ll have developed a thorough and holistic understanding of the human body, health and disease onset, all of which help to shape out understanding of ourselves and our place in the world.
Sport science is a multi-faceted discipline, with important applications in performance and clinical settings. In the health sector, exercise is prescribed for general health and the management of many diseases, but how do the core natural sciences integrate with the study of sport and exercise science?
You will be introduced to fundamental principles and concepts, and examine these in real-life sport and exercise contexts and scenarios. You will learn to identify human anatomy and physiology, and understand how this relates to sport, exercise, rehabilitation and massage. You’ll learn how to assess amateur and elite sporting performance via performance testing and scientific analysis. You’ll also examine the psychology of sport and exercise and the biomechanics of human movement.
Once you complete the module, you’ll recognise the importance of physical activity and exercise for health, and understand how it can be applied to the whole population to enhance public health and wellbeing.
Why do chemical reactions occur? How do we analyse and understand the composition of substances? What techniques do we use to uncover the mysteries of chemical reactivity? In this module, you’ll begin a journey into the fundamentals of organic and inorganic chemistry, and learn to apply spectroscopic methods in analytical chemistry.
You’ll examine the different groups of the periodic table, uncovering the unique properties of each element and the fascinating chemistry exhibited by each distinct group. You’ll immerse yourself in the captivating world of organic chemistry and the different molecular classes, functional groups, and key reaction mechanisms that compose this discipline.
You’ll discover how spectroscopic and analytical techniques are used to identify, analyse, and quantify different substances. You’ll also come to understand how chemistry functions as the central natural science, connecting other fields of knowledge like physics, biosciences, sport sciences, and forensics.
What practical skills are essential for success in the field of biosciences? Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, you’ll learn to analyse and present biological data using established scientific methods. By purifying your own protein and analysing its function, you’ll gain experience using a wide range of experimental tools, processes and equipment found in modern laboratories.
You’ll discover how to operate safely, professionally and with good laboratory practice. You’ll use digital tools to visualise, analyse and interpret scientific data, and apply mathematical and statistical skills to solve biological problems and make evidence-based conclusions.
By the end of this module, you’ll emerge equipped with the knowledge and skills to undertake scientific experiments confidently, safely and effectively.
Biomolecules are the fundamental building blocks of life on Earth, comprising amino acids, monosaccharides, fatty acids, and the bases of DNA and RNA. These molecules, though basic in structure, form the complex macromolecules—proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids—that underpin the diversity and adaptability of all life forms.
After exploring the intricate structure/function relationship in these building blocks, you’ll then focus on enzymes, remarkable catalysts that accelerate biochemical reactions. By analysing the kinetics of these enzymes, you will explore how these proteins work and how their activity is controlled, including the mechanisms of enzyme inhibition.
How does your body operate normally, and what happens when health issues arise?
You will explore the anatomy and physiology of healthy tissues, organs, and the major bodily systems. By reviewing and interpreting engaging case studies, you will connect theoretical knowledge with real-life health conditions that impact these systems.
Through these explorations, you will gain a deeper understanding of the causes of these diseases, the important diagnostic techniques we can use to assess them, and how we might treat them.
How can you leverage the skills you have acquired so far to thrive throughout your academic journey? This module will allow you to expand your skill set and advance through the scientific process under the guidance of established conventions that define excellence in academia, healthcare, and industry.
You'll apply your practical skills and knowledge to formulate hypotheses, test them effectively, and learn how to analyse and present data for a standard practical laboratory report. By following a series of progressive steps, you'll evolve towards becoming a confident, independent scientist, culminating in a mini-project where you'll integrate all your acquired skills in an extended investigation.
By the end of this module, you’ll have the groundwork in place to support your success in the later stages of your degree, undertaking and reporting on experimental work in line with professional standards in the life sciences sector.
In today's ever-evolving landscape of science and medicine, understanding the complexities of molecular and cellular biology within the context of evolution and the genetics of human disease is essential.
You’ll explore cell structure and organisation, the intricacies of cell membranes, molecular trafficking, and the orchestration of organelles vital for energy production and metabolism. In addition, you’ll navigate cells' internal skeleton, chromosome dynamics, and the fascinating processes of cell division and meiosis. You’ll also study DNA replication, repair, and recombination, uncovering the secrets of chromatin structure and mutation.
Further topics include the intricate pathways of transcription, mRNA processing, and protein production. You’ll also have a chance to immerse yourself in the world of genetics, from Mendelian inheritance to the complexities of human pedigrees and quantitative genetics. Finally, you’ll explore the mechanisms underpinning evolution and gain insight into the transformative power of molecular analysis in diagnosing human diseases.
What is biodiversity? How are species distributed on our planet? In this module, you’ll explore the variety of life on Earth in all its forms, from bacteria to entire ecosystems such as forests or coral reefs.
You will learn about the diversity of species in all kingdoms of life, including prokaryotes, animals and plants. You’ll explore the processes that led to the evolution of species, and you’ll use ecological concepts to study how species are distributed within communities and across landscapes.
By the end of this module, you’ll be able to apply ecological and evolutionary concepts to understand the diversity of life on our planet.
There's not one module I don't enjoy – they're all very interesting.Vivian Moreno, Biomedical Science with a Sandwich Year BSc
How do genes work and how can we manipulate them? How can techniques such as whole-genome sequencing and genome editing detect and treat diseases? This module deals with the flow of genetic information from DNA to RNA to protein in organisms, ranging from viruses to humans.
You’ll learn how genetic information is stored in DNA and RNA, how that information is decoded by the cell, and how the flow of information is controlled in response to changes in the environment or developmental stage. You’ll compare and contrast mechanisms of gene regulation in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, and explore the latest developments in molecular genetic techniques to analyse and manipulate gene function. You’ll also explore how these mechanisms can be applied to research on human disease and the biomanufacturing of useful biological products with real-world applications.
Whether it is biology, biochemistry or biomedical sciences, scientists need to understand their subject matter. But additional skills are also needed to successfully work as a scientist. These relate to scientific ways of answering questions and the generation of subject-specific knowledge.
In this module, you’ll interpret scientific data generated with experimental methods that are commonly used in the biological sciences. You’ll develop your understanding of how to generate new scientific knowledge based on such data and apply these skills to create scientific studies that use combinations of methods to answer scientific questions.
Finally, you’ll apply the skills you gain in this module to design a standard operating procedure as is commonly required by clinical and industrial employers of graduates.
Plants allow life on Earth as we know it, providing food and oxygen for the entire biosphere. They also provide essential materials for us such as shelter, fibre, fuel and medicinal compounds. With the pressing environmental challenges we currently face — such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and issues around food security and sustainability — understanding plant biology has never been more critical.
You’ll learn about plant physiology, genetics, epigenetics, and metabolomics, gaining insights into the mechanisms driving plant growth and development, and their adaptation to the environments around them. You’ll incorporate the latest discoveries and technologies into your work, and develop the knowledge, skills and critical thinking you’ll need for a future career in a growing area of the life sciences sector.
By the end of the module, you will have deepened your understanding of plant biology and will be better equipped to apply it to the pressing global challenges we face.
Animals represent a significant portion of Earth's biodiversity. By studying different species and their interactions with each other, we can gain insights into the complexities of ecosystems and the interdependence of living organisms.
In this module, you’ll comprehensively explore animal life across evolutionary history, focusing on key elements of functional anatomy and physiology. Through comparative physiology and the study of form and function, you’ll examine the diverse physiological systems found in various animal species, gaining insights into their adaptations and variations to changing environments over time.
By exploring these relationships, you’ll understand how animals have evolved in different environments, what challenges current global issues pose to different species, and what they — and we — can do to ensure species continue to thrive.
Discover the ways in which ecological science can be applied to solve some of the crucial conservation problems facing the world today. You'll consider key ecological principles at the population, community and ecosystem levels, investigating how these principles can help guide management and policy decision-making. A major theme is how natural resources can be managed and exploited sustainably, drawing on examples from agriculture, urbanisation and forestry in temperate and tropical regions. Central to the topic is the question of how species and community conservation can be better incorporated into the wider needs of environmental management.
Microorganisms are all around us and form an integral part of us. Without them, we could not exist. You will explore the diversity, function and utility of microorganisms around planet Earth – and beyond. From their role in shaping the environment to their deployment in biotechnology, the microbial world is increasingly coming under the spotlight for its place in our ecosystem and the properties that allow it to operate in different contexts.
You’ll study the origin of microorganisms and the methods — classical and modern — used in their classification, cultivation and manipulation. Modern molecular tools offer significant benefits to microbiology, and you will learn about their background and the rationale for their use.
At the end of this module, you will have developed new insights into the essential role that microorganisms play in the world and the potential for harnessing and controlling them.
The human brain is the most complex living structure in the universe and has enabled humans to achieve breath-taking milestones such as walking on the moon, mapping the human genome, and composing masterpieces of literature, art, and music. But how does the human brain work?
You will learn about the biology of the mind, and the molecules underpinning these processes, to develop an understanding of how we experience emotions and initiate behaviours. You will consider the technological advances that have opened new horizons for the scientific study of the brain, and finally, you will apply your learning to the emerging science on brain disorders with wide societal impact, such as depression and addiction.
Have you got a burning question in biosciences you would like to answer? Do you want to hone your lab skills for a career in academia or industry? Do you see yourself as a bio-based entrepreneur, or is your passion for communicating biosciences to different audiences? In this module, you will work directly towards these ambitions by gaining experience in your chosen subject area.
Working closely with your academic supervisor, you’ll select either a lab-based or data-driven project in which you will answer scientific questions that interest you. These could potentially contribute to new discoveries and expand the frontiers of our current knowledge and understanding.
In a business project, you’ll develop your ideas into a business plan. In a communications project, you’ll create educational tools for either the general public, specific professional audiences, or school children. Whatever future career you have in mind, this module will provide you with essential skills to help you achieve your goals.
What is the future of biological research? What are the new horizons for basic scientific enquiry, and how will new biological understanding transform our society in years to come? This module asks where the current ‘unknowns’ lie in the field of biological science and how we can answer them. The module is split into two parts:
Unsolved Mysteries, where you will develop understanding across a range of topical areas in animal, plant and microbial biology. You’ll study recently published work addressing the themes of conflict and cooperation at all levels from genes to ecosystems.
Global Challenges, where you will explore the UN Sustainable Development Goals and ask how biological research can contribute to addressing these. Topics will vary from year to year but may include sustainable food production, solutions to climate change, consumption and production of biological goods, and equitable access to advances in healthcare.
What are viruses and what can we do to protect ourselves? The COVID-19 pandemic has brought viruses into the focus of wider public attention. By analysing scientific research articles in an interactive, collaborative and student-led approach, you will establish an in-depth understanding of these unique pathogens that are not even living organisms.
You will discover how the evolution of viruses is driven by a continuous tug-of-war with the immune system. This will enable you to appreciate the successes that we have made in protecting ourselves from virus diseases but also highlight open questions and areas of future research. This knowledge and understanding brings you to the frontier of developments in the field, where you can help drive forward progress and make a real difference.
What is cancer and why is it so difficult to cure? Cancer is a disease that almost everybody is affected by during their lives, directly and/or indirectly. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of the disease, including what defines a cancer cell, and the mechanisms underlying cancer cell formation and behaviour.
This will enable you to understand why cancer is particularly difficult to treat successfully, why cancer therapies are associated with significant adverse effects, and how cancer treatments have nevertheless dramatically improved over time and continue to do so. This knowledge will enable you to become an expert in cancer, who is up-to-date on this important disease and equipped to follow, understand and drive future developments and progress in the field.
We live in an exciting time where we can easily sequence entire genomes. This, coupled with advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI), has driven significant development in bioinformatics methods - the tools we use to study the sequence information. You will explore state-of-the-art bioinformatics and genomics tools, with a strong focus on practical application of these tools to answer important biological questions. You will combine information from multiple tools to gain detailed knowledge and understanding in the interpretation of results from bioinformatics and genomics resources, particularly in understanding how genetic variants are associated with disease. The skills and experience you gain from applying knowledge through genomics tool gives you everything you need to kickstart your career in genomics.
Biology of Ageing delves into the intricate molecular mechanisms underlying the ageing process. You will explore the genetic factors, cellular changes, and physiology that influence lifespan and age-related health, as well as how these are influenced by lifestyle such as diet.
Through this, you will be equipped with a wealth of knowledge that you can use to understand the plethora of scientific and general news articles on the topic of ageing and use these to inform your own opinions. In addition to developing an overview of ageing biology, you will investigate the techniques, systems, and models that have been used to advance the field and learn to analyse real-life data generated by researchers in this field. Overall, you’ll understand the benefits and challenges underlying recent advances in age-related healthcare and the ethical, economic and societal benefits of these. This understanding will help you in making new discoveries in the field.
How do new scientific breakthroughs become embedded positively within society? How do we build trust and confidence in science and technology, so that the public are empowered to make the best decisions for themselves and those around them? How do we sustain a strong future for science by inspiring the next generation? Consider key principles in science communication, reflect on specific historic and contemporary case studies, and develop a personal and professional understanding of your social roles and responsibilities as a scientist.
You will explore ways in which scientist construct key messages in the context of professional disciplines such as media, policy makers, private sector and charitable organisations, and understand the role that scientists play outside of the immediate scientific environment. Finally, you will apply best practice in science communication and public engagement to global challenges for which science and technology provides potential solutions.
Teaching includes lectures, laboratory classes, workshops, problem-solving sessions and tutorials. You have an Academic Adviser who you meet with at regular intervals to discuss your progress, and most importantly, to identify ways in which you can improve your work further so that you reach your full potential.
Most modules are assessed by a combination of continuous assessment and end-of-term exams. Exams take place at the end of term and count for 50% or more of the module mark. Stage 1 assessments do not contribute to the final degree classification, but all stage 2 and 3 assessments do, meaning that your final degree award is an average of many different components. On average, 29% of your time is spent in an activity lead by an academic; the rest of your time is for independent study.
For a student studying full time, each academic year of the programme will comprise 1200 learning hours which include both direct contact hours and private study hours. The precise breakdown of hours will be subject dependent and will vary according to modules.
Methods of assessment will vary according to subject specialism and individual modules.
Please refer to the individual module details under Course Structure.
For course aims and learning outcomes please see the course specification.
Graduate with an excellent grounding in scientific knowledge and extensive laboratory experience. During your studies, you’ll also develop key transferable skills in research, critical thinking, analytical abilities and problem solving.
Our dedicated Careers and Employability team are here to support you with a range of workshops to develop your skills and confidence at every stage of your degree. Plus there’s advice and support to prepare you for placements and life after you graduate from Kent.
*The Government announced on 4 November 2024 that tuition fees in England for Home students will increase to £9,535 from £9,250 for the academic year 2025/26. This increase requires Parliamentary approval, which is expected to be given in early/mid 2025.
Tuition fees may be increased in the second and subsequent years of your course. Detailed information on possible future increases in tuition fees is contained in the Tuition Fees Increase Policy.
The University will assess your fee status as part of the application process. If you are uncertain about your fee status you may wish to seek advice from UKCISA before applying.
For details of when and how to pay fees and charges, please see our Student Finance Guide.
Students will require regular access to a desktop computer/laptop with an internet connection to use the University of Kent’s online resources and systems. Please see information about the minimum computer requirements for study.
Find out more about accommodation and living costs, plus general additional costs that you may pay when studying at Kent.
Kent offers generous financial support schemes to assist eligible undergraduate students during their studies. See our funding page for more details.
We have a range of subject-specific awards and scholarships for academic, sporting and musical achievement.
Next steps
If you are from the UK or Ireland, you must apply for this course through UCAS. If you are not from the UK or Ireland, you can apply through UCAS or directly on our website if you have never used UCAS and you do not intend to use UCAS in the future.
We welcome applications from students all around the world with a wide range of international qualifications.
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