Study BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences at Heriot-Watt University in the UK, Biology

BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences

UK

10

What will I learn?

BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences will provide you with the knowledge and subject-specific skills relevant to the practice of modern biochemistry, and cell and molecular biology. You’ll gain a thorough understanding of the foundations of biochemistry, and cell and molecular biology, integrating concepts of related areas such as physiology, microbiology, biotechnology, and genetics. You’ll develop your critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving skills. You’ll learn about scientific concepts, evaluate research findings, and present innovative solutions to complex biological problems using a range of media. You’ll work independently and collaboratively, and engage in group projects, scientific discussions, and research initiatives. Your studies are led by internationally excellent staff that provide globally connected learning and the opportunity to study from other Heriot-Watt campuses through Go Global. Hands-on laboratory work is prominent throughout the degree, and you’ll have access to our state-of-the-art labs where you can put theoretical knowledge into practice. This will help you gain valuable skills in interpreting and analysing scientific data. As well as building your skills in biological sciences, you’ll develop sought after soft skills, such as problem-solving, communication skills, and practical presentation skills. You’ll also understand the vital role of a biologist across a range of professional fields including research and development, quality assurance, environmental monitoring, and public health. This industry-focused degree will ensure you have the understanding, knowledge, skills, and personal qualities required to understand the impact that biochemistry, and cell and molecular biology has on our daily lives, and you’ll become a confident graduate ready to undertake a wide range of careers within the scientific or other employment sectors. Potential career pathsNatural and social science professionalsScience, engineering and technology associate professionals

Which department am I in?

Biology

Study options

Full Time (4 Years)

Tuition fees
£25,808.00 (US$ 33,329) per year
This is a fixed fee

*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution

Start date

September 2026

Venue

Heriot Watt University - Edinburgh Campus

Riccarton, Edinburgh,

Edinburgh,

Scotland,

EH14 4AS, Scotland, United Kingdom

Full Time (4 Years)

Tuition fees
£25,808.00 (US$ 33,329) per year
This is a provisional fee yet to be approved

*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution

Start date

September 2026

Venue

Edinburgh Campus

Riccarton,

Edinburgh,

Scotland,

EH14 4AS, Scotland, United Kingdom

Entry requirements

For international students

Year 1: Standard entry requirements - Highers AABB (including a science subject), A-Levels BBC - ABB (including a Maths or Science subject), Int. Baccalaureate 27 points to include a science subject at Higher Level 5, BTEC DMM (in relevant subject), HNC C in graded unit (in relevant HNC). Check that you meet our university-wide National 5/GCSE (or equivalent) English and Maths requirements. Our minimum requirements will apply if you: live in an area within the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation lowest 20% (SIMD20) or are care experienced) - Highers BBBC (including a science subject at B), A-Levels BBC - ABB (including a Maths or Science subject). Additional information: Suitable science subjects are Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Sciences, Human Biology, Mathematics and Physics. Year 2 – Advanced Highers BB (including Biology or Human Biology plus Highers AABB), A-Levels ABB (including Biology or Human Biology), Int. Baccalaureate 32 points (with Biology or Human Biology), HNC B in graded unit (in relevant HNC), HND BB in graded units (in relevant HND), BTEC DDM (in relevant subject). Year 3: HND AB in graded units (in relevant HND). The minimum requirement for English language for all our undergraduate Biology courses is IELTS 6.0, TOEFL iBT 79 (including reading 18, listening 17, speaking 20, and writing 21).

*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.

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About Heriot-Watt University

Heriot-Watt University is a world-leading institution ranked in the top 18% of universities in Europe (QS Europe Rankings 2025).

  • Five modern campuses in the UK, Dubai and Malaysia
  • 2nd in UK for graduate employability (2024 GOS)
  • Lifelong career advice
  • #1 in Scotland for producing CEOs/MDs (Novuna ’25)

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