Biology

This course has been awarded Interim Advanced Accreditation status. This will become Advanced Accreditation when the first cohort of students graduate from the MBiol degree courses in the summer 2018 (subject to final confirmation from the Royal Society of Biology).

Why study MBiol Biology at Aberystwyth University?

• The Integrated Masters in Biology is for students who have the ability to study to a higher level than the standard BSc degree and integrates three years of undergraduate study in Biology with a further year of postgraduate level study. 
• Students’ graduate with the qualification of MBiol (Biology), a recognized Masters level qualification for a career in academic or commercial biological research. 
• In the final year, Integrated Masters students have the opportunity to complete a Masters research project embedded within one of several pioneering research groups led by expert IBERS academic staff. This is pursued alongside study on taught modules that develop essential skills required by today’s professional biologists. 
• Specialist opportunities at Aberystwyth for Integrated Master students include:

1. application of molecular techniques including DNA extraction, sequencing and analysis;
2. extensive research and teaching labs equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, including bioimaging facilities, high-throughput DNA sequencing, flow cytometry, lab scale to pilot plant fermentation, proteomics, metabolomics and spectroscopic platforms;
3. controlled environment rooms and extreme experimental environments to study terrestrial organisms.

• Learn and live in an exceptional environment where you will be surrounded by a great diversity of beautiful environments, including marine, moorland, mountain, waterways, grassland and coast.
• Investigate subjects such as genetics, cellular biology, animal behaviour, ecosystems, humanity’s impact on the environment.
• Receive expert tuition in scientific protocol and hands-on lab work.
• Taught by well-known and leading experts in the Biology field.
• Use of the Biological Service Unit, Mass Spectrometry, Analytical Unit, Modelling laboratory, the Computational Biological laboratory, Advanced Microscopy and Bio-imaging Laboratory.

Want to study in Welsh? 

Students can elect to study a number of IBERS modules in the medium of Welsh. Check out our module tab!

Our Staff

The majority of teaching staff at the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences are qualified to PhD level and are research active. Vocational courses also have staff whose background lies within industry.  The Institute has a large number of research only staff with whom students may have contact.

What employment options are open to Biology graduates?

Our graduates are strong candidates in the following fields:

• Research science;
• Clinical molecular geneticist;
• Nature conservation officer;
• Education .

Students who have completed a biology degree could also progress to further training in;

• Dentistry;
• Medicine;
• Science writers. 

Key Skills and Competencies 

Study Skills 

You will develop an in-depth knowledge and critical understanding of the key contemporary topics in Biology. You will master the research process and contribute to the knowledge base of the subject through your final year research. Throughout this you will encounter many opportunities to develop as a reflective, autonomous researcher. At all times you will have the support of expert academics working at the forefront of their field. 

Self-motivation and discipline 

Studying to postgraduate level requires discipline and self-motivation. Though you will have access to the expertise and helpful guidance of experienced IBERS staff, you will be responsible for devising and completing a final year research project. This process will strengthen your skills as a self-sufficient worker, a trait prized by all employers. 

Transferable Skills 

The MBiol (Biology) is designed to give you a range of transferable skills that you can apply in a variety of employment contexts. The course is made up of a number of taught modules plus guided independent student centered study. This provides you with a framework which allows you to develop your subject knowledge, through pursuing specific areas of interest and develop your skills of original thought, analysis, interpretation and reasoning. Regular assessment through reports, essays, seminar presentations, précis and case studies will prepare you for the many demands of the modern workplace.

What work experience opportunities exist whilst studying? 

Click here to find out about the various opportunities that our Aberystwyth University Careers team offer. 

Enhance your employability prospects with GO Wales and YES (Year in Employment Scheme) managed by our Careers department.