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Program Overview
Biological Sciences
Overview
The Foundation Degree in Biological Sciences is a two-year full-time course that aims to provide students with knowledge and understanding of scientific methods of enquiry and theoretical principles of biological sciences, including, where appropriate, the application of those principles in an employment context.
Course Structure
The course is taught at Belfast Metropolitan College, Belfast.
Work Placement
Between Year 1 and Year 2, there is a compulsory work-based placement for a duration of ten weeks. This will provide students with opportunities to apply the knowledge and skills acquired from Year 1 content; to develop important employability skills required for the employment market; and to benefit from being exposed to biological science practices.
Year 1
- Fundamentals of Science
- Work Based Learning 1
- General Chemistry
- Introductory Mathematics and Study Skills
- Biochemistry & Cell Biology
- General Biology
Year 2
- Microbiology
- Work Based Learning 2
- Genetics & Molecular Biology
- Ecology
- Biological Diversity and Evolution
- Molecular Biology and Genetics
- Microbiology
Learning and Teaching
During the FD Biological Sciences, we provide a range of learning experiences to enable students to engage with subject experts and develop attributes and perspectives that will equip you for life and work.
Assessment
The way in which you are assessed will vary according to the learning outcomes of each module. Details of how each module is assessed are shown in the Student Handbook which is provided to all students during their first year induction, and is available on our School website.
Feedback
As students progress through the FdSc in Biological Sciences they will receive general and specific feedback about their work from a variety of sources including lecturers, module co-ordinators, placement supervisors, personal tutors, advisers of study and peers. Students are expected to engage with reflective practice and to use this approach to improve the quality of their work.
Modules
Core Modules
- Fundamentals of Science (20 credits)
- Work Based Learning 1 (20 credits)
- General Chemistry (20 credits)
- Introductory Mathematics and Study Skills (20 credits)
- Biochemistry & Cell Biology (20 credits)
- General Biology (20 credits)
- Microbiology (20 credits)
- Work Based Learning 2 (20 credits)
- Genetics & Molecular Biology (20 credits)
- Ecology (20 credits)
- Biological Diversity and Evolution (20 credits)
Optional Modules
- Environmental Science and Conservation (20 credits)
- Chemistry of Organic Molecules (20 credits)
Entrance Requirements
A level requirements
CC including Biology or Double Award Applied Science + GCSE Chemistry grade C/4 or GCSE Double Award Science grades CC/4,4 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4.
Irish leaving certificate requirements
H3H4H4H4H4/H3H3H4H4 including grade H3 in Biology and H4 in Chemistry + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade O4 in Mathematics.
Access Course
Successful completion of Access Course with an average of 65%. Must be a relevant Access Course normally including two Biology modules (Level 3) and one Chemistry module (Level 3). GCSE Mathematics grade C/4 or equivalent in Access Course.
International Baccalaureate Diploma
26-27 points overall including 5,4,4 at Higher Level including Biology + GCSE Chemistry grade C/4 or GCSE Double Award Science grades CC/4,4 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4.
BTEC Level 3 Extended/National Extended Diploma
QCF Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science (180 credits) with overall grade MMP (a minimum grade may be stipulated in relevant units) + GCSE Biology and Chemistry grade C/4 or GCSE Double Award Science grades CC/4,4 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4.
How we choose our students
Applications are dealt with centrally by the Admissions and Access Service rather than by School of Biological Sciences. Once your on-line form has been processed by UCAS and forwarded to Queen's, an acknowledgement is normally sent within two weeks of its receipt at the University.
Tuition Fees
Northern Ireland (NI) | £3,237
---|---
Republic of Ireland (ROI) | £3,237
England, Scotland or Wales (GB) | £6,357
EU Other | £16,867
International | £16,867
Additional course costs
There are no specific additional course costs associated with this programme.
Career Prospects
Our graduates are employed in organisations working within environmental monitoring and management, water quality management, animal welfare, academic research, the agri-food industries, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, teaching and education, and science communication.
Degree Plus/Future Ready Award for extra-curricular skills
In addition to your degree programme, at Queen's you can have the opportunity to gain wider life, academic and employability skills.
Scholarships
Each year, we offer a range of scholarships and prizes for new students.
International Scholarships
Information on scholarships for international students, is available at
How to Apply
Application for admission to full-time undergraduate and sandwich courses at the University should normally be made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Full information can be obtained from the UCAS website at:
Terms and Conditions
The terms and conditions that apply when you accept an offer of a place at the University on a taught programme of study. Queen's University Belfast Terms and Conditions.
Additional Information for International (non-EU) Students
- Applying through UCAS
Most students make their applications through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) for full-time undergraduate degree programmes at Queen's. The UCAS application deadline for international students is 30 June 2025. - Applying direct
The Direct Entry Application form is to be used by international applicants who wish to apply directly, and only, to Queen's or who have been asked to provide information in advance of submitting a formal UCAS application. Find out more. - Applying through agents and partners
The University’s in-country representatives can assist you to submit a UCAS application or a direct application. Please consult the Agent List to find an agent in your country who will help you with your application to Queen’s University.
Course Vacancy Status
Below is the current vacancy status for this course. For further information please contact us at.
Student Type | Places available?
NI/ROI Applicants |
GB and Islands Applicants |
International and EU (Non-ROI) Applicants |
