Portsmouth is the only University in the UK with the flexibility to choose when to do an optional paid placement or self-employed year. Either take a placement in your third year, or finish your studies first and complete a placement in your fourth year. You can decide if and when to take a placement after you've started your course.

Discover how biology helps safeguard endangered species and fight disease on this BSc (Hons) Biology degree, accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB).You'll get the skills you need to turn your curiosity and love of nature into a career that matters.- Put your knowledge to work in our molecular biology labs, using world-class equipment such as our ancient DNA and gene analysis facilities, fluorescence microscopes and research greenhouse- Get involved with the European Xenopus Resource Centre, one of the largest frog resource facilities in the world- Explore the diversity of local ecosystems and go on field trips to destinations such as Dorset, Devon and Mexico- Have the chance to gain valuable work experience on a one-year placement or to spend a year studying abroad to experience a different culture and enhance your CV- Be eligible to apply for Associate Membership of the Royal Society of Biology when you graduate, which includes access to exclusive grants and awards

This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology.

As the scientific study of life and living organisms, biology covers a huge variety of sub-disciplines – from ecology to genetics, botany to zoology – and everything in between.On this BSc (Hons) Biology degree, you’ll start the course with key biological theories, before being able to shape it to your interests and choose from specialist areas like animal science, enzymes, hydrology and environmental microbiology.You'll develop problem-solving, communication and numeracy skills alongside technical skills, and in your final year, you’ll have the opportunity to investigate a research question for your honours project. Once you graduate, you’ll have the knowledge and practical skills needed to work in areas including research, biotech, consultancy, teaching and journalism. You could also continue your studies to postgraduate level, such as on our MSc Applied Aquatic Biology.

Roles our graduates have taken on include:- microbiologist- microbiology laboratory technician- research scientist- science technician- medical laboratory assistant- grant administrator- medical writer- biomedical sales specialist- ecological surveyor

They've gone on to work for organisations such as:- NHS- Ministry of Defence- European Xenopus Resource Centre- MGS Laboratories

You'll also have the opportunity to spend a year studying abroad on a conservatio