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| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2027-06-29 | - |
Program Overview
Introduction to Pre-University: Life Sciences
The Pre-University: Life Sciences course is designed for 16-18 year olds in their final or penultimate year of school who are considering pursuing an undergraduate degree in the Life Sciences. This 2-week programme provides students with the opportunity to explore different areas of the Life Sciences, such as Biology, Chemistry, Genetics, and Immunology, and work with science specialists to learn about different Life Science careers.
Key Information
- Course Teachers: Emily Watts and Jayne Quoiani
- Eligibility: Students must be in their penultimate or final year of high school and aged 16-18 years. They should not have any previous undergraduate learning experience and should have completed general science, biology, or chemistry up to GCSE/SQA National 5/IB MYP or secondary school certificate/diploma, or equivalent.
- Language Requirements: Applicants should meet the minimum English language requirements, with an IELTS overall score of 6.5 and 5.5 in each component.
- Device Requirements: Students will require a suitable device, such as a laptop or tablet, to access course materials via the University of Edinburgh's Virtual Learning Environment.
- Teaching Location: Holyrood Campus
- Dates: 29 June - 10 July 2026
- Length: 2 weeks
- Course Fee: ｣5,250
- Application Deadline: 19 May 2026 at 17:00 (BST)
Course Description
The course aims to introduce the Life Sciences to students who are considering university study. Students will explore how the Life Sciences play a major role in helping us solve problems, such as disease, through learning about real-life research, carrying out science investigations, meeting scientists, and discussing some of the biggest questions facing science today.
Course Structure
The structure of this course is designed to provide students with an immersive experience, giving them a taster of undergraduate study, as well as providing a unique Edinburgh-based summer school opportunity. Classes will combine mini-lectures, tutorial discussions, workshop activities, and laboratory practical sessions.
Research Areas
The course will cover various research areas, including:
- Biochemistry: gaining deeper insight into the processes of life at a molecular level
- Molecular & Cellular Biology: investigating the molecular basis of life
- Biodiversity & One Health: exploring the relationship between microorganisms, animals, humans, and the environment
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Describe how the life sciences contribute to solving real-world global problems
- Explain the interdisciplinary nature of science
- Critically analyse and draw conclusions from scientific data
- Design and plan a considered scientific investigation, in a group and under the supervision of the course teacher
- Summarise and communicate a scientific investigation
Campus Information
The Pre-University courses are based at the University of Edinburgh's Holyrood campus, which houses a library, cafe, and several study spaces. The campus is surrounded by a number of cafes and grocery stores where students can buy lunch and is approximately 20 minutes from the accommodation.