What is biosciences?
Rapid advances in technology and knowledge have a daily impact on our lives, from the air we breathe to the food we eat and the environment in which we live. Our courses encompass a range of areas as diverse as: the environment and its protection; the growth, development and reproduction of plants and animals; the production and preservation of agricultural and food commodities; food manufacture, health, nutrition and safety.
How will I study?
The school received 23 out of 24 in the latest independent review of teaching quality – the highest score in the UK in our subject areas. The 2008 Research Assessment Exercise placed the School of Biosciences (in collaboration with the School of Veterinary Medicine and Science) top in the UK in terms of 'research power' in agriculture and veterinary and food science. It is generally believed that top quality research impacts on excellence in teaching and a better all-round undergraduate experience.
Learning is undertaken through lectures, seminars, tutorials, computer-assisted learning, field work, demonstrations, practical classes and visits to research establishments.
We have extensive links with companies and institutions working in the field of biosciences, both nationally and internationally, helping us to ensure our courses are relevant to industry.
The School is renowned for its supportive and friendly community environment and you will have a personal tutor who can give advice if needed.
Except for the BSc/MSci Environmental Science, all Biosciences courses are based at Sutton Bonington Campus – a 40-acre site located 10 miles south of Nottingham, with easy access to nearby cities, national rail and road links and East Midlands Airport. There is a free , regular hopper bus linking the campus to University Park Campus and NOttingham.
Sutton Bonington Campus boasts an excellent range of facilities including newly built halls of residence and a sports centre. You will benefit from state-of-the-art teaching and research facilities, specialist laboratories, an extensive library and the University Farm and Dairy Centre.
Studying abroad and industry placements
On most courses you will be able to apply to spend a semester studying abroad through the global Universitas 21 scheme or on our Malaysia Campus (Biotechnology, Environmental Science, Nutrition and Plant Biotechnology).
Many of our courses can also be extended to include a one-year Certificate in European Studies, entailing language tuition and a semester studying at a European university.
All biosciences students (except those on the Master of Nutrition or Pre-Veterinary Science courses) also have the opportunity to take a year working in industryas a paid employee between years two and three, recognised with your degree as an Industrial Placement Award.
Career prospects
There is a great demand for our graduates. Latest available data shows that 79 per cent of biosciences graduates are in full-time paid employment six months after graduation or have gone on to further study. Opportunities include business management, finance and marketing, food manufacture, environmental consultancy, agricultural consultancy, product development, academic and industrial research, pharmaceutical development, nutritional advice and medical research.
Application and interview
Offers are made usually without interview. Students with non-standard entry requirements, including mature students, may be invited to an interview.
Open days
Visit days for students offered a place are normally held between January and April. For University-wide open days, please see www.nottingham.www.nottingham.ac.uk/opendays