UNIVERSITY OF EAST ANGLIA · UNITED KINGDOM
BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences with a Foundation Year
Bachelor's · Taught in en · UCAS 8C91
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- 17thRanked for research quality in Biological Science (The Times Higher Education REF 2021 Analysis)
- 90%Graduates in work or further study within 15 months (Graduate Outcome Survey 2020)
- Top 25UK universities for Biology (Guardian University Guide 2025)
This four-year BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences with a Foundation Year program is designed to ignite your curiosity about the study of life. It provides a broad and in-depth introduction to the core subjects within biological sciences, exploring the processes and interactions that drive life on Earth. You'll engage with current scientific topics of significant societal importance, such as climate change, infectious diseases, and bioethics, while developing critical thinking and research skills. The program benefits from a unique partnership with the Norwich Research Park, offering access to cutting-edge research and guest lectures from leading academics and researchers. Upon successful completion of the foundation year, you will progress to one of the main BSc Biological Sciences degree programs, with options to specialize further or undertake a placement or year abroad.
Curriculum
The foundation year comprises one-third biology modules, covering cellular level to ecosystems, metabolic pathways, and the evolution of life. The remaining two-thirds focus on research skills, mathematics, and chemistry, tailored to your prior studies and future course intentions. Successful completion allows progression to various Biological Sciences programs, with specific entry criteria for each.
- Foundation Year
- Foundations in Biological Sciences
- Introductory Biology
- Further Biology
- Introductory Mathematics for Scientists
- Further Mathematics for Scientists
- Basic Mathematics I
- Basic Mathematics II
- Introductory Chemistry
- Further Chemistry
- Environmental Sciences
- Communicating Critical Environmental Topics
Careers
Upon successful completion of the foundation year, you will progress to a main degree program within the School of Biological Sciences. Graduates from these programs are prepared for a variety of career paths in fields such as the pharmaceutical industry, science media and publishing, environmental management and conservation, and healthcare.
- Pharmaceutical industry
- Science media and publishing
- Environmental management and conservation
- Healthcare
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences with a Foundation Year program?
- You must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at a minimum grade of 4 or C. Specific A-level requirements are CCC (or CDD for a contextual offer), and equivalent qualifications are also considered. A wide range of English language qualifications are accepted; please check the university's equivalency page for details.
- How long does the BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences with a Foundation Year program take to complete?
- This is a four-year program. The first year is a foundation year, after which you will progress to one of the main BSc Biological Sciences degree programs.
- What subjects are covered in the foundation year?
- The foundation year includes one-third biology modules covering topics from cellular level to ecosystems. The remaining two-thirds focus on research skills, mathematics, and chemistry, tailored to your background and future course intentions.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- Tuition fees and living cost estimates are not provided on the program page.
- Are there any scholarships available for international students?
- Yes, the university offers several scholarships for international students, including the International UG Merit Scholarship (£4,000 - £10,000 per year) and the International Early Payment Awards (up to £1,000). These are often automatic awards for students paying overseas fees.
- How do I apply for this program?
- Applications are made through UCAS, typically by January for the following September intake. You will need to check entry requirements, prepare documents like transcripts and proof of English proficiency, and submit your application via UCAS using the course code 8C91.
Entry requirements
A levelsCCC (Contextual offer: CDD)
BTEC Level 3 Extended DiplomaMMM (Contextual offer: MMP)
Access to HE DiplomaPass with 45 credits at Level 3
T LevelsOverall Pass (any subject)
International Baccalaureate28 points overall
Irish Leaving Certificate6 subjects at H4
Scottish HighersBBCCC
Scottish Advanced HighersDDD
GCSE English LanguageGrade 4 or C
GCSE MathematicsGrade 4 or C
Applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at a minimum grade of 4 or C. A wide range of English Language qualifications are accepted. Please check the university's English Language equivalencies page for details. UEA also considers contextual admissions and a variety of qualifications.
Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)—
Living—
Tuition fees and living cost estimates are not provided on the program page.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and English language requirements for the BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences with a Foundation Year program. This includes holding or working towards specific GCSE grades in English and Mathematics.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, certificates, and proof of English language proficiency. You may also need references and a personal statement.
3. Submit Application via UCASApplications for undergraduate courses in the UK are typically made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). The UCAS course code for this program is 8C91.
4. Monitor Application StatusKeep track of your application through the UCAS system and respond promptly to any requests for further information from the university.
5. Accept Offer and Prepare for EnrolmentIf successful, you will receive an offer. Follow the instructions to accept your offer and complete any required pre-enrolment steps.
Scholarships
International UG Merit Scholarship£4,000 - £10,000 per year
International Early Payment Awards (Final Year Entry)£1,000
International Early Payment Awards (September Start)Up to £1,000
Music Scholarship£3,000
Music Centre Award£800
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences with a Foundation Year program?
+
You must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at a minimum grade of 4 or C. Specific A-level requirements are CCC (or CDD for a contextual offer), and equivalent qualifications are also considered. A wide range of English language qualifications are accepted; please check the university's equivalency page for details.
How long does the BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences with a Foundation Year program take to complete?
+
This is a four-year program. The first year is a foundation year, after which you will progress to one of the main BSc Biological Sciences degree programs.
What subjects are covered in the foundation year?
+
The foundation year includes one-third biology modules covering topics from cellular level to ecosystems. The remaining two-thirds focus on research skills, mathematics, and chemistry, tailored to your background and future course intentions.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
Tuition fees and living cost estimates are not provided on the program page.
Are there any scholarships available for international students?
+
Yes, the university offers several scholarships for international students, including the International UG Merit Scholarship (£4,000 - £10,000 per year) and the International Early Payment Awards (up to £1,000). These are often automatic awards for students paying overseas fees.
How do I apply for this program?
+
Applications are made through UCAS, typically by January for the following September intake. You will need to check entry requirements, prepare documents like transcripts and proof of English proficiency, and submit your application via UCAS using the course code 8C91.