BSc Honours MSci Biology with Foundation Year
Course overview
This four-year course at Sheffield Hallam University is a way to earn a degree in Biology, with the first year acting as a foundation. It is intended for students who do not meet the standard entry requirements for direct entry to a degree. The course prepares students for a career in both research and industry, with a focus on sustainability. Students will study a wide range of subjects, from animal and plant life to genetics and data science.
The Bachelor of Science part of the course is approved by the Royal Society of Biology. Learning is hands-on and is taught by active researchers. It includes a blend of seminars, lectures, workshops, and lab work. The course encourages a creative approach to solving problems and includes real-life projects. Students will also have the opportunity to complete a work placement to get professional experience.
Entry requirements
Candidates are required to submit a personal statement in which they discuss their reasons for applying for the course and other relevant information about their studies. An appropriate academic and/or employer reference is also required. Students have the option to upload their CV along with their applications to demonstrate their work experience.
Grade Requirements:
- For a foundation year, applicants need to have a minimum of 40 UCAS points. This can be from different qualifications. For example, three A-levels at grade E or above, a BTEC National Extended Diploma at grade P, or an Access to HE Diploma with a Pass.
- Applicants also need to have at least a grade 4 (C) in GCSE English language and maths, or an equivalent qualification.
English Proficiency:
- If English is not the applicant's first language, the applicant will need to prove their proficiency with a score of at least 6.0 in the IELTS test, with no less than 5.5 in each section. The university also accepts other equivalent English language tests.
Scholarships
Chevening Scholarships
Payment of tuition fees.
Inclusive Leadership and Sustainable Growth Executive MBA Scholarship
Up to ten scholarships are available, each offering a £5,000 tuition fee discount.
Up to £5,000Joyce Spurr Art Travel Fund
Successful applicants will be awarded between £50 and £250.
Up to £50Online Masters Scholarship
A 10% discount on all our online masters courses.
Up to 10% of feesPerformance Athlete Support Programme
Successful applicants will receive support from our multi-disciplinary team of sport practitioners, free Team Hallam Ultimate Membership, and access to our facilities. Some students may also receive a bursary and support.
Postgraduate Research Scholarship
A 10% discount on postgraduate research courses is available if you have graduated with a full degree from Sheffield Hallam.
Up to 10% of feesPostgraduate Study Discounts
£2,000 discount on full-time postgraduate course fees for home and international students starting in 2026/27.
Up to £2,000Postgraduate Taught Scholarship
£1,000 Postgraduate Taught
Up to £1,000Transform Together Scholarships
A half fee waiver (50% discount) is available for undergraduate and postgraduate taught courses for the first year of study.
Up to 50% of feesVice-Chancellor's Award
South Asia - £2,000; Nigeria - £3,000; South East Asia - £3,000; Ghana- £3,000
Career opportunities
A degree in biology can lead to careers in many different fields. Here are some examples:
- Academic Researcher
- Biomedical Scientist
- Biotechnologist
- Clinical Research Associate
- Forensic Scientist
Cost of study
The tuition fee for international students is £17,155 per year. If the student chooses to do a placement year, the fee for that year is reduced to 20% of the usual amount.
Admission
Applications for this undergraduate degree are made through UCAS. International students can apply either through UCAS or directly to the university's official website. To make your application as strong as possible, we suggest speaking with AHZ's expert counsellors.
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