Human Biology BSc Hons

Explore the biology of human beings, and their relationship with their environment. This stimulating Human Biology course is taught by enthusiastic, experienced tutors who have a real passion for their subject.

Specialist laboratory and computing facilities are excellent and the course features a practical, hands-on emphasis. Not only does this help you to understand key concepts, it also provides you with the specialist skills demanded by employers. You will enjoy a friendly, supportive learning environment; at Worcester, you are not just another face in the crowd.

In your first year you will develop a comprehensive understanding of the structure and functions of living organisms appropriate to the course. In Years 2 and 3 the modules become more specialised. Subjects central to Human Biology such as Cell Biology are delivered in double modules to allow for suitable development of the subject and for the delivery of important subject specific and generic skills.

In your final year you will undertake an Independent Study, which is a double module and must demonstrate original data. The Independent Study will have been designed in the research methods module in Year 2. Past topics have included amplification of ancient human DNA, the effect of televised sport on blood pressure and heart rate, and the antimicrobial effects of curry spices.

Factfile
Entry requirements
Course content
Student views

UCAS code

UCAS is the central organisation through which applications are processed for entry onto full-time undergraduate courses in Higher Education in the UK.

Human Biology BSc (Hons) B150 BSc/HBio

It is also possible to study this degree in combination with other courses. For the latest information, check the UCAS website at www.ucas.com

Study options

Unless you are a Minor Honours student, in the final year you will also take a module that enables you to reflect on the skills you have gained on the course and prepares you for your biological career after university.

Get in touch

Admissions Office
01905 855111
admissions@worc.ac.uk

Dr Rob Herbert
Curriculum Leader
01905 855215
r.herbert@worc.ac.uk

Institute of Science and the Environment Admin Office
01905 855201
ise@worc.ac.uk

240 UCAS Tariff points with A2 Biology and A2 in another Science, e.g. Chemistry

260 UCAS Tariff points with A2 Biology and A1 in another Science

270 UCAS Tariff points with A1 Biology and A2 in another Science

280 UCAS Tariff points with A1 Biology

The University will consider each application on its individual merits and will recognise a range of qualifications not currently included in the Tariff, including Access courses, European Baccalaureate and pre-2002 qualifications such as GNVQ.

If your qualifications are not listed, please contact the Admissions Office for advice on 01905 855111 or email admissions@worc.ac.uk for advice.

Further information about the UCAS Tariff can be obtained from http://www.ucas.com

Modules

Year 1
Biological Diversity
Cell Biology
Biology of Disease
Human Anatomy & Physiology

Year 2
Research Methods
Molecular Genetics
Human Genetics
Human Biochemistry
Systems Physiology
Microbial Biology
Medical Forensics

Year 3
Integrated Studies in Biology
Forensic DNA Analysis
Communication & Integrative Physiology
Pharmacology & Toxicology
Mammalian Reproduction

* Regular updates may mean that exact module titles on the course may differ.

Assessment

There are a variety of methods used for assessment. Most modules are assessed using more than one type of assessment, e.g. examination and course work.
Course work assessments include seminar papers, practical reports, essays, posters and presentation.

Examinations include short tests, multiple choice, long answer, seen examinations and practical examinations.

Teaching methods include practical sessions, field work, work shops, lectures, directed study, tutorials.

In many cases, learning materials are also available via the the University of Worcester Intranet. It is anticipated that E-Learning will become more integrated in your teaching and learning through the use of the University's virtual learning environment.

Jade Osborn

Student, Human Biology BSc (Hons)

"I was nearly put off education by the pressure of my A levels, but I decided to carry on and apply to University of Worcester, and have loved it ever since. It’s really inspired me. I started off doing the broad Biology BSc, but I changed my pathway as I discovered which areas I found particularly interesting. That’s the amazing thing about the course - you study so many diverse topics, from ecology to genetics to microbiology, but you still study in depth, with a strong practical element.”

Academic department

Institute of Science & the Environment

“The Institute’s acclaimed research in areas such as river management, rural issues, forensic biology, nutrition and archaeology has a common thread: our belief that science should be centred around its impact on people.”
Professor John Newbury, Head of Institute

Employability

As a Human Biologist at the University of Worcester, you will be able to develop a wide range of intellectual, practical and social skills that are much in demand by employers. These include primary research and critical evaluation skills, communications skills, both written and oral, and a range of technical and IT skills such as the use of DNA technology, IT-based analysis, data analysis, and applied statistics.

Human Biologists, who can solve problems, look at evidence and make measured and reasoned arguments, are not only required in scientific fields but also in other fields - such as the media, retailing and finance - to ensure there is a balanced view relating to new technology and that any risks are neither under nor over stated. There is also a need for people to be able to explain these scientific arguments in 'lay-mans' terms, not only in teaching but also in a wide range of other vocations.

This course will prepare you for a number of different career paths including work with the police, laboratory practice, medical and laboratory sales and postgraduate degrees. Some students are using Human Biology as a route into medical school.