Molecules to Microbes
Undergraduate
BSc (Hons)
Biology with Studies in the USA
School of Science, Engineering and Environment
Attendance
Full-time
With placement
Course
Three year
Four year
Next enrolment
September 2020
In a nutshell
Biology is the science of living things and is also used to explain how humans interact with and influence the natural environment. Furthering our knowledge in biology has led to new technological advances and a deeper understanding of the world around us.
This course will develop your appreciation of the diversity of living organisms and your understanding of biological principles. You will benefit from plenty of hands-on experience in the labs as well as fieldwork opportunities. Practical training in our state of the art Bodmer Laboratories will equip you with many of the subject-specific, personal and practical skills that you will need for your future career.
You can opt to take this course with a year of study in the USA; an exchange programme with the University of Toledo in Ohio which has been running for over 30 years. The University of Toledo is considered to be a top global player when it comes to taking research from the laboratory to the world, and has been recognised by the American Society of Landscape Architects as one of the 22 most beautiful landscaped campuses in the United States. The University of Toledo is based in an Ohio and just an hour's drive from Detroit - the largest city in Michigan. Detroit has a major international airport, hosting one of the largest airline hubs in the country, meaning that travel around the USA and further afield whilst your are on exchange is very easy. Situated on the western trip of Lake Eerie, Toledo is less than a five-hour drive from Toronto and Chicago.
In the NSS 2020 survey, Biology Courses received 98% overall satisfaction with teaching [University of Salford analysis of unpublished NSS 2020 data]
This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology.
You will:
- Benefit from hands-on experience in the labs and fieldwork opportunities
- Spend your second year at the University of Toledo
- Be taught by internationally-leading researchers in parasitology, biomedical science and molecular biology
Placement
options available
International
students accepted
Course accreditations
This is for you if...
1.
You have a keen interest in the living world
2.
You want to develop your skills and career aspirations through lab work and in the field
3.
You want an opportunity to study a broad range of topics
4.
You are interested in studying in another country
5.
You want the opportunity to do a placement year
All about the course
In year one you will study a range of topics in six modules covering both theory and practice across the biological sciences. In year two at the University of Toledo, you can choose from a range of modules similar to those offered in year two of the degree at Salford. You will be supported by a tutor based in Salford whom you will have had as your first year tutor. You will also be supported by a local tutor in Toledo. You will return to the University of Salford for your final year.
Year one
This module focuses on the basic principles involved in the build-up of molecules from atoms: the formation, properties and importance of bio-organic molecules, the diverse nature of micro-organisms and their structure, function and importance.
Genetics
This module will help you develop an understanding of genes and genetics, and their influence on evolution and development. It looks at the basic principles of molecular genetics and the function and evolution of genes in organisms.
Biodiversity
This module focuses on the origins and diversity of living organisms (including humans), the environmental processes and their role in the generation of biodiversity.
Biological Skills
This module will help you develop practical laboratory skills relevant to cell, organismal, micro and molecular biology which will form a basis for competence in biological and biochemical experimental work.
Study Skills
In this module you will learn by observation, investigation, comparison and engagement and will develop practical learning and presentation methods which can be applied generically during year one and beyond. You will also gain an appreciation of Personal Development Planning and effective data handling, calculation and numerical skills.
Cell Biology
This module will look at the multidisciplinary nature of cell biology and the basic structure of cells, focusing on animal cells. It will help you develop a theoretical knowledge of the fundamental physiological and biochemical functions carried out by cells.
Year two
University of Toledo
In year 2 at the University of Toledo, you will study a range of modules similar to those offered in year 2 of the degree at Salford. You will be supported by a tutor based in Salford whom you will have had as your first year tutor. You will also be supported by a local tutor in Toledo.
Year three
One option from
Final Year Project and Professional Skills
This dissertation module allows you to develop independent, experimental, investigative and analytical research skills as you conduct a substantial research project based around a specific aspect/topic in your relevant bioscience discipline area.
Final Year Project with Science Communication and Professional Skills
This dissertation module allows you to develop independent, investigative and analytical research skills while conducting research on topic in an area relevant to your programme of study. It further allows you to learn about science communication and the variety of ways in which science can be disseminated and communicated.
Choose two options for trimester 1 from the following
Biology of Parasites
This module looks at the importance of human and animal parasites, in relation to medical, veterinary or wildlife aspects, life-cycle biology, host response and the principles of parasite epidemiology and transmission. You will also study strategies for parasite detection, diagnosis and control. The module includes a unique field course to enable you to see parasites living in their natural environment.
Biotechnology
This module encourages an awareness of the importance of biotechnology in industry and develops your knowledge of a variety of biochemical processes in a range of important industrial applications.
Clinical Immunology
This module looks at mammalian immunological mechanisms, and the roles played by T and B cells/Lymphokines in generating an immune response. It helps you develop an understanding of the genetics of antibody diversity, HIV pathogenesis and the current immunodiagnostic assays for infectious and non-infectious diseases.
Advances In Pathophysiology
The aim of this module is to develop an advanced understanding of selected human physiological systems and to gain an understanding of how failure of these systems can contribute to disease.
University Wide Language
Courses are available in: Arabic, German, French, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish.
Plus two options for trimester 2 from
Antimicrobial Resistance: Threats and Solutions
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is now widely recognised as one of the greatest threats to global health. This module focuses on the reasons underlying the emergence of AMR and investigates diverse often innovative solutions to the crisis.
Applied Freshwater Biology
This module aims to enable you to gain a knowledge and critical understanding of the biology and ecology of freshwater systems relevant to the water industry and related organisations which regulate and control pollution of the aquatic environment.
It also provides you with the necessary skills and techniques to undertake biological and chemical evaluation of water quality ecology, fish population and condition to apply these in novel situations to generate data for interpretation. In particular, you will be provided with the necessary laboratory skills to test water quality to the standards of the Water Framework Directive UK.
Evolution, Development and Adaptation
This module looks at the way evolution has shaped both the development and adaptation of groups of animals to their environments.
Veterinary and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases
This module explores the ecology and transmission of human and animal infectious diseases and their management.
University Wide Language
Courses are available in: Arabic, German, French, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish.
Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.
School of Science, Engineering and Environment
Rising to the challenge of a rapidly changing world, our multi-disciplinary courses will shape the next generation of urbanists, scientists, engineers, consultants and conservationists. Shaped by industry and delivered by supportive programme teams, you can develop the skills to become unstoppable in your career.
facilities
You will experience a modern learning environment, enriched with accessible lecture theatres and AV-equipped classrooms, computing suites and multimedia libraries, with access to industry journals, databases, and simulation software.
As a biology student, you will have access to our state-of-the-art, integrated teaching laboratory known as the Bodmer Lab. The Bodmer Lab is a specialist, purpose-built facility and ensures our students benefit from the latest technologies to support their learning and remain on the cutting edge of innovation and discovery.
UNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO
At the heart of this course is the year abroad at our partner institution the University of Toledo in Ohio (USA) building on over 30 years of successful exchanges. You will be based in the University's Department of Biological Sciences and and have access to dedicated equipment and computer software for an advanced level of studies, including advanced genomic screens, microscopic imaging studies and quantitative gene expression analyses
What about after uni?
This biology degree provides an excellent base for careers in biomedicine, biotechnology, conservation, the pharmaceutical or food industries, research or teaching. Prospective employers include pharmaceutical companies, environment agencies, hospitals, forensic laboratories, clinical trials companies, medical writing companies, scientific sales and general management jobs.
A number of students continue on to postgraduate study, either taught science masters’ courses, research degrees or teaching qualifications. Many who spend their second year in the US return stateside to complete higher degrees at Toledo or other institutions. For example, two of our graduates returned to Toledo to complete PhDs and now have prestigious academic jobs at Harvard University and Cornell University in the US.
FURTHER STUDY
Career Links
INDUSTRY PLACEMENTS
We encourage all of our students to take up an additional industrial placement year, which we will help to arrange, between years two and three of the full-time course, making a four-year course overall. In many cases this can be a salaried position with a major company or have financial support linked to a public health laboratory or hospital (such as the Respiratory Physiology Unit at the Royal Aintree Hospital in Liverpool or Wythenshawe Hospital in Manchester). In our experience, final degree results and employability are enhanced for students who undertake a placement year. The placement also counts towards the final degree classification as part of the year 2 mark.
What you need to know
APPLICANT PROFILE
We are looking for applicants with a keen interest in the living world and a desire to develop their skills and career aspirations through lab work and in the field. We anticipate that students on this programme will be keen to study overseas and want to broaden your horizons.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS
International applicants will be required to show a proficiency in English. An IELTS score of 6.0, with no element below 5.5, is proof of this.
Please note: The entry criteria below are related to entry onto this course in the 2020/2021 academic year. If you’re interested in a future intake year, please check the course entry on UCAS.
Standard entry requirements
GCSE
English language and mathematics at grade C or 4 or above
You must fulfil our GCSE entry requirements as well as one of the requirements listed below.
UCAS tariff points
104 - 120 points including A2 Biology
A level
104 - 120 points including A2 Biology or equivalent. A Pass in the Practical Element of Science A levels must be achieved
BTEC National Diploma
DMM
Access to Higher Education
Pass QAA approved access programme in Science or Health and Social Care
Scottish Highers
104-120 points from Higher Level. To include specific subjects: Higher Level Biology
Irish Leaving Certificate
104-120 points from Higher Level. To include specific subjects: Higher Level Biology
International Baccalaureate
30-31 points with at least one science subject from Group 4
Alternative entry requirements
Salford alternative entry scheme (SAES)
We welcome applications from students who may not meet the stated entry criteria but who can demonstrate their ability to pursue the course successfully. Once we have received your application we will assess it and recommend it for SAES if you are an eligible candidate.
There are two different routes through the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme and applicants will be directed to the one appropriate for their course. Assessment will either be through a review of prior learning or through a formal test.
How much?
| Type of study | Year | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time home | 2020/21 | £9,250per year |
| Full-time international | 2020/21 | £15,240per year |
| Part-time | 2020/21 | Your annual fee will be calculated pro rata to the full-time fee according to the number of credits you are studying. |
| Full-time home | 2021/22 | £9,250per year |
| Full-time international | 2021/22 | £15600per year |
| Part-time | 2021/22 | Your annual fee will be calculated pro rata to the full-time fee according to the number of credits you are studying. |
Additional costs
You should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.
The major additional costs (as of 23 Oct 2019) for the year in Toledo are as follows:
- Flights – in recent years has been between £900 and £1,000 return (travel is during the August peak period and the ticket is a flexi return).
- Visa – currently $340 (approx. £265); in addition all applicants must attend a visa interview in London so travel costs incurred.
- Health insurance – will vary from one individual to another but probably averages about £500 if purchased in advance.
Housing expenses whilst students are in the USA is approximately the same as the new apartments on campus at Salford.
Most students are able to claim back a reasonable proportion of the above costs from Student Finance England as a grant: “You must pay the first £303 of your travel costs - and your travel grant will be reduced by £1 for each £8.73 of household income over £39,796.” See https://www.gov.uk/travel-grants-students-england/what-youll-get for more information.
Almost all the general fees that Toledo students have to pay are waived. However, there is a small admin fee (approx. £50) that our students have to pay to Toledo upon arrival.
Scholarships for international students
If you are a high-achieving international student, you may be eligible for one of our scholarships.
We have a range of scholarships available for students applying for courses in 2020-2021 and 2021-2022. Our Global Gold Excellence Scholarship is worth £3,500 and our Global Silver Excellence Scholarship is worth £3,000 - both are available for students studying in our 2021/22 intakes.
We also offer the Salford International Excellence Scholarship which offers up to £5,000 discount on tuition fees. As this is a prestigious award we have a limited number of these scholarships available.
See the full range of our International Scholarships.
Interested in starting university in September 2021? Book your place on our next Open Day.