The STEM Foundation Year provides the opportunity to study an integrated 4-year programme where you will complete a Foundation Year before progressing onto a degree in biology, computer science, engineering, or geography and geology, subject to passing all assessments. The STEM Foundation Year provides the opportunity to develop scientific skills and knowledge, tailored to your individual needs, that will enable you to progress onto the first-year of selected science-based degrees at Edge Hill University. The programme equips you with the key transferable skills needed for higher education and future employment. It is suitable if you meet the University’s minimum entry criteria but do not meet the subject-specific requirements for science-based courses or wish to extend your scientific knowledge base prior to joining a relevant degree. You will develop skills in academic writing, critical analysis, systematic thinking and personal reflection, and receive a broad overview of applied mathematics and physics. The programme includes three pathways which enable you to enhance your scientific knowledge in computer programming, biology or geography. The pathway you will study is determined by your intended degree. Exploring the very mysteries of life is the essence of biology. It’s at the forefront of research into global issues such as disease, cloning, food and climate change. By studying everything from molecules to ecosystems, you’ll appreciate the challenges biological advances present to society. You’ll gain an understanding of the scope of biological knowledge on our BSc (Hons) Biology degree that’s accredited by the Royal Society of Biology. It includes extensive lab work, and fieldwork in a rich diversity of habitats. Our biology course covers a diverse range of topics in the study of living organisms. You’ll discover where your interests lie early on, and have opportunities to specialise. A course highlight is the chance to go on field trips abroad (paid for by us), travelling to locations rich with flora and fauna. Throughout the programme you’ll receive training in biological sciences from staff who are specialists in their disciplines.