University of Leicester

Biological Sciences (Physiology with Pharmacology) BSc

University of LeicesterLeicester, Campus-based

Course overview

Physiology is the study of study of the functions and mechanisms within living systems from the ionic level up to the whole animal. To maintain healthy function, all of these aspects must operate optimally, including adapting to changes in the internal or external environment. This course will develop your understanding from the ionic level through to the integration of whole systems to sustain life.

This will provide a foundation for understanding how often subtle changes can underlie disease, how we are able to treat disease and how future generations of scientists may develop improved and new treatments. You will also study pharmacology, which allows us to understand how molecules from outside or inside the body interact with their molecular targets to influence their behaviour. This is key to our understanding of how drugs are used therapeutically and also how they can be abused, for example, for recreational purposes or to seek sporting advantage.

The course is delivered in modules, allowing you some flexibility to focus on areas that align with your developing interests. Over the programme, in addition to subject-specific knowledge, you will gain important transferable skills that will make you an attractive prospect for future employers. This course is identical to the first three years of the MBiolSci in Biological Sciences (Physiology with Pharmacology).

This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for the purpose of meeting (in part) the academic and experience requirement for the Membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol). Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.

At the University of Leicester, we offer seven Biological Science s

Key highlights

  • Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology towards Chartered Biologist status
  • Covers physiology from the ionic level to whole-body systems
  • Pharmacology of therapeutic drug use and recreational or sporting misuse
  • Modular structure lets you focus on your developing interests
  • Identical to the first three years of the integrated master's
  • Builds transferable skills valued by future 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

  • Physiologist
  • Pharmacologist
  • Research scientist
  • Clinical research associate
  • Laboratory scientist
  • Pharmaceutical sales representative

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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