Biology
Studying a biology degree with the OU will enable you to understand the foundations of life and the biological processes involved. Explore diverse subject areas from the cellular and molecular levels to whole organism survival.
| Award Name | Degree - Honours Bachelor at UK Level 6 |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | Open University |
| NFQ Level |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree - Honours Bachelor at UK Level 6 | Open University |
Duration
How long it takes
Part time – 6 years
Full time – 3 years
Time limit – 16 years
Study method: Distance learning.
How much time do I need?
• Most of our students study part time, completing 60 credits a year.
• This will usually mean studying for 16–18 hours a week.
*You can complete your studies in six years part-time and three years full-time. However, your last module (SXB390) ends in September, so you’ll receive your final results in late October rather than June/July. You should consider this if you’re planning further study and wish to use your BSc (Honours) Biology as an entry qualification.
Entry Requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification.
At The Open University we believe education should be open to all, so we provide a high-quality university education to anyone who wishes to realise their ambitions and fulfil their potential.
Even though there are no entry requirements, there are some skills that you’ll need to succeed. If you’re not quite ready for OU study we can guide you to resources that prepare you, many of which are free.
Stage 1 includes a compulsory module, Questions in science (S111) – check you’re ready to study this module.
https://www.open.edu/openlearncreate/course/view.php?id=2197
Careers / Further progression
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 secondary school level; there may be training incentives)
• waste management, recycling and sustainability.
Exploring your options: see 'Course Web Page' link below for further information.
Further information
Register for this course.
Start dates
• October 2024: Registration closes 05/09/2024
• February 2025: Registration closes 09/01/2025
Credit transfer: apply by 08/08/2024
BSc (Honours) Biology
This course is for those inspired by the natural world. Studying a biology degree will enable you to understand the foundations of life and the biological processes involved. Explore diverse subject areas from the cellular and molecular levels to whole organism survival. Biology encompasses all living species, explaining their diversity via evolutionary origins. It defines their anatomy and structure, describes their physiology and behaviour, and provides scientific rationales for their habitat requirements and ecosystem interactions.
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.
Key features of the course
• Awarded interim accreditation by the Royal Society of Biology – see Careers
• Gain a contemporary understanding of biology alongside scientific methods
• Acquire biological data handling, statistical analysis and technical report writing skills
• Develop investigative and laboratory skills using our state-of-the-art multi-award-winning OpenSTEM Labs
• Undertake practical home and field investigations
Stages 1 and 2 of this degree are the same as our Diploma of Higher Education in Biology (W89).
Stage 1 (120 credits)
You’ll study two 60-credit modules.
• Questions in science (S111)
• Science: concepts and practice (S112)
Stage 2 (120 credits)
You’ll study two 30-credit modules and choose 60 credits of option modules.
You'll study both of the following:
• Cell and molecular biology (S296) 30 credits
• The biology of survival (S295) 30 credits
You'll choose 60 credits from:
• Environmental science (S206) 60 credits
• Brain, mind and mental health (SK298) 30 credits
• Human biology (SK299) 30 credits
• Investigative approaches in biology and chemistry (S285) 30 credits
Stage 3 (120 credits)
You’ll study one 60-credit module, choose a 30-credit module and complete a 30-credit project module.
You'll study the following:
• Biological science: from genes to species (S317) 60 credits
You'll choose one from 30-credit module:
• 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) 30 credits
Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
• Knowledge and understanding.
• Cognitive skills.
• Practical and professional skills.
• Key skills.
The level and depth of your learning gradually increases as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; elearning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Tel: +353 1 678 5399
Our advisers are available to take your call Monday to Friday from 08:30 to 17:00, excluding public holidays.