University of Leicester

Biological Sciences (Genetics) MBiolSci

University of LeicesterLeicester, Campus-based

Course overview

Genetics covers many aspects of society including human health, forensic science, food production, environmental quality, species conservation, ethics and law. On this course you will learn how genetic engineering, molecular and developmental genetics, human genetics and evolutionary genetics all contribute to a greater understanding of the discipline. You will gain a balanced understanding of modern genetics focusing on the organisation, inheritance, expression and evolution of genes in organisms ranging from bacteria to Homo sapiens.

You will work alongside leading geneticists who are investigating some of the most important questions in genetic research in order to gain insight into the mechanisms of life and evolution. Geneticists study these processes in all types of organisms and discover how errors in them can cause disease, and they help discover how genes work across the biological sciences. You will also gain a broad understanding of fundamental biological processes, while developing analytical skills and gaining experience in handling complex information.

By studying genetics alongside options in other biological sciences, you will be able to apply your knowledge across the boundaries of traditional disciplines and gain a valuable and powerful asset in scientific environments and in many other walks of life. The first three years of this course are identical to the Biological Sciences (Genetics) BSc, including the option to spend a Year in Industry or a Year Abroad between Years 2 and 3. Your fourth year then lets you focus on refining your research and lab skills - while also putting into practice your employability skills - by conducting a research project.

The analytical and critical skills you acquire by studying an MBiolSci in Biological Sciences are particularly valued by PhD supervisors, researchers and employers in non-scientific fields. At the University of Leicester, we offer seven Biological Science subjects and four Medical Bioscience subject

Key highlights

  • Covers genetic engineering, molecular, developmental, human and evolutionary genetics
  • Work alongside leading geneticists investigating major questions in genetic research
  • Option of a Year in Industry or Year Abroad
  • Fourth-year research project refines research and lab skills
  • Options in other biological sciences for cross-disciplinary study
  • Analytical skills valued by PhD supervisors and non-scientific employers

Entry requirements

  • A-level: ABB — to include including at least two relevant science subjects from Biology, Chemistry, Maths, P
  • A-level: BBB — + Level 3 Core Maths grade B (if Maths not taken as a full A or AS level
  • GCSE: 4/C — to include English Language, Mathematics, Science
  • Access to HE Diploma: Pass — Pass Science diploma with 45 credits at level three, 30 of which must be at distinction
  • International Baccalaureate: 30 — International Baccalaureate : Pass Diploma with 30 points to include grade 6 and 5 in at least two relevant HL science subjects from Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Physics or Psychology.
  • BTEC: D*DD — BTEC Nationals : Pass Applied Science Diploma with D*DD plus five GCSEs at B/5 or above including two relevant sciences.
  • T-level: Distinction — to include in Science (with an Occup

Scholarships

  • Chancellor’s International Scholarship

    This scholarship, worth £3,000 per year, reflects the University’s commitment to attracting talented students from around the world.

    Up to £3,000

  • Choral Scholarships at Leicester Cathedral

    Leicester Cathedral offers three Choral Scholarships of £1,000 each year to University of Leicester students (undergraduates or postgraduates).

    Up to £1,000

  • Family Loyalty Discount

    10% discount on the tuition fee for each year of your course.

    Up to 10% of fees

  • International Citizens of Change Scholarship

    A £10,000 tuition fee discount will be awarded to 10 undergraduate international fee-paying students starting an undergraduate programme in September 2026 for each year of their course for up to three years.

    Up to £10,000

  • International Undergraduate Merit Scholarship

    This merit-based scholarship, worth £5,000 per year, is offered to international-fee-paying students applying for an undergraduate degree at the University of Leicester who achieve or exceed the academic grades outlined.

  • International Undergraduate Tuition Fee Waiver

  • Music Scholarship

    Music Scholarships of £500 are available for the academic year to cover the cost of music lessons for student musicians who are studying an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in any subject.

    Up to £500

  • Sanctuary Scholarships

    Each Sanctuary Scholarship consists of a tuition fee waiver, and a support package to be confirmed following assessment with our Welfare Service.

  • Sports Scholarships - The Talented Athlete Award

    Financial contribution on agreed items up to £500 (e.g., travel expenses, equipment, specialist coaching, nutritional advice).

Careers this course leads to

  • Research scientist (genetics)
  • Clinical scientist (genomics)
  • Laboratory technician
  • Forensic scientist
  • PhD researcher
  • Biotechnology scientist

Cost of study

UK/Home: £9,790; £10,050 | International: £25,100

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to University of Leicester, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

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