BSc Biology with a Foundation Year
Course overview
The BSc Biology with a Foundation Year is a four-year full-time course designed for students who may not possess the required scientific qualifications for direct entry to an undergraduate science degree. The initial Foundation Year provides a crucial academic grounding in core scientific subjects, ensuring all students acquire the fundamental knowledge needed for degree-level study. Upon successful completion of the Foundation Year with a minimum of forty per cent overall average, students are guaranteed progression to the three-year BSc degree.
This programme delivers a rich learning experience, enabling students to cover the complete scope of biology, spanning from cellular processes to conservation on a planetary scale. Students gain an advantage from accessing superb research resources, such as modern laboratories, a zoology museum, a dedicated research vessel, and the Centre for Sustainable Aquatic Research. Practical sessions, residential trips, and international field courses enhance their studies, and the degree is officially accredited by the Royal Society of Biology.
Entry requirements
Candidates are required to submit a personal statement in which they discuss their reasons for applying for the course and other information regarding their studies. An appropriate academic and/or employer reference is also required. The university will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications.
Grade Requirements:
- The offer for candidates applying with A-levels to the Foundation Year (Entry Level 3) is CDD to DDD, and this must include one Science subject.
- Alternative qualifications, such as a BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in a science-related subject, are considered, requiring a DMM grade.
- For international qualifications, an International Baccalaureate score of 28 points is usually expected, including a Grade B/6 in Science or Biology.
English language Requirements:
- Applicants from non-English speaking backgrounds need to score a minimum overall band score of 6.0 in the IELTS Academic test, with no less than 5.5 in each of the individual components (reading, writing, listening, and speaking).
- The university also accepts submission of scores from an equivalent Secure English Language Test (SELT).
Scholarships
Chevening Scholarships
International Excellence Scholarships
Scholarships are awarded as a discount on tuition fees worth up to £5,000 in the first year of study, with a further £2,000 awarded in Year 2 (for £5,000 awardees only, subject to achieving a 70% average).
International Postgraduate Alumni Bursaries
First Class - £5,000 per year; Second Class, First division - £3,000 per year; Second Class, Second division - £1,000 per year; Taught Masters to Research Degree - £3,000 per year subject to satisfactory progress.
Swansea University International Postgraduate Research Excellence Scholarship (SUIPRES)
The SUIPRES Scholarship covers the difference between the International and the Home tuition fee rate for the duration of the PhD/Professional Doctorate programme.
Swansea University Sport Scholarship
Financial support (of up to £2000).
Thrive Bursary
The Thrive bursary is a £4,000 reduction in tuition fees for the first year of study, with a progression bursary of £2,000 in subsequent years (applied as a discount off tuition fees).
Up to £4,000
Career opportunities
Graduates of the BSc Biology programme are well-prepared for professional roles across the scientific and environmental sectors. Major career paths include:
- Ecologist
- Marine Biologist
- Research Scientist
- Biotechnologist
- Wildlife and Education Officer
Cost of study
The international tuition fee for the BSc Biology with a Foundation Year is £23,100.
Admission
Admission for this course, BSc Biology with a Foundation Year, is processed through the UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) system. To find out more about this process, speak to one of our trained counsellorsAHZ's trained counsellors.
Ready to start?
Book a free consultation and we'll map your fastest route to your place.