BSc Biology Sandwhich Year
Course overview
The BSc Biology Sandwich Year at the University of South Wales is a four-year full-time degree that teaches you about life science, from small cells to big ecosystems, with a full-paid work placement (sandwich year) after year two. It is great if you are interested in knowing about how plants, animals, and microbes grow and change, and want real job experience before you finish.
In year one, you study basics like cell biology, chemistry, and ecology. Year two adds genetics, evolution, and microbiology. Year three is your 12-month paid placement at a company, lab, or conservation group. Year four includes advanced topics like biodiversity and a final research project.
You learn through lectures, small seminars, tutorials, lab sessions, and workshops. Assessment includes exams, lab reports, essays, presentations, field notebooks, and group projects. You also write a reflective report on your placement year. Facilities include general biology labs with skeletons for study, computer rooms with GIS software, and outdoor spaces for fieldwork.
Entry requirements
To apply, submit a personal statement explaining your interest in biology along with details of your academic background. A reference from a teacher or employer is also required, and a CV showcasing relevant experience
Grade Requirements:
- You will need 96 UCAS points from A-levels or equivalent qualifications.
- BTEC Level 3 or other Level 3 qualifications are accepted.
- Equivalent international qualifications are accepted
- Applicants with relevant work or life experience are also considered.
English Proficiency:
- Applicants from non-English-speaking backgrounds must achieve a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.0, with at least 5.5 in each component.
- Equivalent test scores, such as TOEFL or PTE, are also accepted.
Scholarships
Chancellors International Development Scholarships
International Development Scholarships of £2,500 are available for students from the regions, for undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
Up to £2,500Course Kit Bursaries
We are offering course kit bursaries to students in their first year of study to support with course costs.
International Office Scholarship
Undergraduate (including top-ups): upto £1,500. Postgraduate: upto £2,000.
Undergraduate Sanctuary Scholarship
USW Scholarship £1000
The University of South Wales is offering scholarships worth £1,000 to first year students who wish to study at least 40 credits through the medium of Welsh.
Up to £1,000USW Scholarship £250
The University of South Wales offers scholarships worth £250 to students at levels 4-7 who wish to study at least 5 credits through the medium of Welsh.
Up to £250USW Summer School
Please contact the provider.
Career opportunities
Graduates of the BSc Biology Sandwich Year are well-prepared for a range of careers in science, and related fields. Possible career paths include:
- Wildlife Conservationist
- Laboratory Biologist
- Environmental Scientist
- Research Assistant
- Science Teacher
Cost of study
For the 2026 academic year, the annual tuition fee for the BSc Biology Sandwich Year at the University of South Wales is £17,200 for international students. Additional cost may apply for the sandwich year.
Admission
Applications for the BSc Biology Sandwich Year at the University of South Wales can be made through UCAS or the university’s online application portal. For guidance on the admission process, kindly reach out to one of our trained counsellors.
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