Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

The Life Sciences degree provides a modular programme covering core biological principles and practical skills. Early years focus on foundational topics such as cell biology, genetics, biochemistry, physiology and ecology, together with laboratory techniques, statistics and scientific communication. As you progress you choose optional modules to tailor the degree towards molecular and biomedical biology, ecology and conservation, or applied biosciences.

Typical topics and modules include:

• Cell and Molecular Biology – structure and function of cells, gene expression and molecular techniques.
• Biochemistry and Metabolism – enzymes, metabolic pathways and biochemical regulation.
• Physiology and Anatomy – animal and plant form and function at organ and system levels.
• Ecology and Conservation – population dynamics, ecosystems, conservation management and biodiversity assessment.
• Microbiology and Immunology – microbial diversity, host–pathogen interactions and immune responses.
• Quantitative and Research Skills – statistics, experimental design, data analysis and scientific writing.
• Final-year Project or Dissertation – an independent research project supervised by academic staff, integrating practical and analytical skills.

Teaching blends lectures, laboratory practicals, fieldwork in the region, workshops and small-group tutorials. Assessment is by a combination of practical reports, examinations, coursework and the final-year research project. Students can often take optional modules from related disciplines (for example chemistry, psychology or environmental science) and there are opportunities for work placements or industry-linked projects to develop employability.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally have qualifications in biological or related sciences. Typical offers take account of the nature and level of prior study rather than prescribing a single qualification route.

• A-levels – three A-levels with at least one science subject (for example Biology, Chemistry or Mathematics) are usually required; practical science experience is advantageous.
• Vocational routes – BTEC qualifications in Applied Science or equivalent are considered; applicants should check how units map to the programme’s requirements.
• International qualifications – the International Baccalaureate Diploma and other recognised international school qualifications are accepted, normally including science subjects at higher level.
• Access and mature students – Access to HE Diplomas and relevant work or laboratory experience are welcomed; individual applications are assessed on their merits.
• English language – applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university’s English language requirements through recognised tests or qualifications.

Selection includes academic references and may consider personal statement and relevant experience. Applicants are advised to consult the university’s admissions pages for precise requirements and guidance for their qualification type.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Life Sciences programme pursue a wide range of careers across science and related sectors. The degree provides a platform for both professional roles and further study.

• Laboratory and technical roles – research technician, laboratory analyst, quality control or clinical laboratory positions in industry, healthcare or government.
• Biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry – roles in R&D support, production, regulatory affairs or clinical trials.
• Environmental and conservation careers – conservation officer, ecological consultant, habitat management and environmental monitoring.
• Science communication and education – secondary teaching (with additional teacher training), outreach, publishing and public engagement.
• Further study and research – many graduates go on to MSc or PhD study in specialised areas such as molecular biology, ecology, biomedical science or bioinformatics.
• Commercial and policy roles – positions in scientific sales, patent support, environmental policy or health services administration.

The programme emphasises transferable skills—experimental design, data analysis, critical thinking and written/verbal communication—that are highly valued by employers and useful across diverse careers.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes combines research-led teaching with a strong emphasis on practical skills and employability. The university offers modern laboratory facilities and practical teaching spaces alongside opportunities for fieldwork in the diverse habitats of Oxfordshire and the surrounding region.

Students benefit from small-group teaching, personalised academic support and embedded career development services that help with placements, internships and graduate employment. The course’s flexible, modular structure allows students to tailor their studies and gain hands-on experience through industry projects or an independent research dissertation supervised by academic staff. The university’s links with local employers, research institutes and conservation organisations help bridge study with real-world experience and graduate opportunities.