COURSE CURRICULUM

The BSc Biological Sciences with Foundation at the University of Reading is a four-year degree designed to support students who need an additional year of preparation before progressing to undergraduate study in biology. The foundation year builds essential scientific knowledge and academic skills through a structured set of compulsory modules. Students begin with Foundation Biology 1, which introduces the molecular building blocks of life, cellular processes, and major physiological systems, alongside developing laboratory and data interpretation skills. This is followed by Foundation Biology 2, which explores evolution, homeostasis, microbial systems, and biotechnology, while strengthening practical and analytical abilities. Foundation Chemistry 1 provides a grounding in chemical principles, including molecular structure, reactions, and how chemical behaviour underpins biological systems. Alongside science content, students study Academic and Scientific Skills modules focused on tackling global challenges, where they develop numeracy, communication, teamwork, research, and digital literacy skills, including responsible use of AI, all framed within real-world issues such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Optional foundation modules include Foundation Chemistry 2, Health, Disease and Society, which examines how social and biological factors influence health outcomes, and Ecology and Environmental Sustainability, which introduces ecological principles such as nutrient cycles, population dynamics, biodiversity, and environmental interactions. After completing the foundation year, students progress into the main Biological Sciences degree, which is highly flexible and allows them to explore a wide range of biological disciplines or specialise in areas such as ecology, wildlife, or human biology. In later years, students study advanced biological topics through compulsory modules like Advanced Studies in Cellular and Molecular Biology and Research and Professional Skills, which develop scientific reasoning, communication, and data analysis skills. They can also choose from a wide range of optional modules across ecology, zoology, microbiology, biomedical science, and environmental biology, including field courses, medical genetics, animal behaviour, marine biology, conservation science, and bioinformatics. Across the programme, students benefit from strong practical training, laboratory work, and field experience supported by modern facilities, including the £60 million Health and Life Sciences building and the Cole Museum of Zoology. The degree is designed to prepare graduates for careers in biological research, healthcare, conservation, biotechnology, and environmental science by combining foundational preparation, academic flexibility, and applied scientific experience.