Human Biosciences BSc (Hons)

Undergraduate

Students wearing white coats and working in the SuperLab

Our Human Biosciences BSc (Hons) course looks to enhance your understanding of how the human body functions in health and disease at the tissue, cell and molecular level.

Course option

Degree with foundation year

Year of entry

2024-25 2025-26

Location

Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

3 years full-time
4 years sandwich

UCAS codes

C110

Start date

September 2024
January 2025 - condensed

How to apply

Book an Open Day

Download a prospectus

Course overview

You will study topics at the forefront of scientific discovery such as genomics, neurophysiology, and communicable and non-communicable diseases.

Human biosciences embraces some of the most rapidly changing and dynamic areas of modern science and has been responsible for an array of ground-breaking scientific discoveries in human health and disease. Over 1.2 million people work in primary science-based roles in the UK, with the boundaries between biosciences, chemical sciences and physical sciences becoming increasingly blurred.

This course aims to equip you to assess and understand new scientific developments and to communicate effectively to diverse audiences, to encourage dialogue between the public, academics and policy makers to advance progress towards a healthier future for us all.
It aims to enhance your understanding of how the human body functions in health and disease at the tissue, cell and molecular level, throughout the lifespan. We place great emphasis on the acquisition of broad human biosciences knowledge and practical expertise, which is most likely to be useful in your future career related to human biosciences.
Laboratory sessions form a substantial component of your learning experience, providing you with the opportunities to learn key experimental techniques and develop the essential experimental, data handling and reporting skills required in biological and other careers.
The January start for this course is condensed in Year 1. Please see the ‘How you’ll learn’ section below for more details.

Joint Top Modern University for Career Prospects

Guardian University Guide 2021 and 2022

5 QS Stars for Teaching and Facilities

QS Stars University Ratings

Top 5 UK Student City (Coventry)

QS Best Student Cities Index 2023

Why you should study this course

Well-equipped suite of analytical and biological laboratories where you can gain hands-on experience using industry-standard techniques.
You will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience of a wide range of laboratory techniques such as gene amplification using PCR, gene sequencing, cell culture, flow cytometry, tissue staining, protein detection and bacterial growth, in modern, well-equipped laboratories⁴.
We offer research-inspired teaching with input from experts in our university research centres, which focus on the themes of cellular and molecular biosciences; biological systems, health and disease; and physical activity, exercise and obesity.
Support applying for placements in laboratory and industrial settings to gain crucial real-world experience².
You will have the opportunity to undertake challenging lab and non-lab based independent research projects, dealing with important life science research questions, which in the past have tackled, for example, the antimicrobial activity of essential oils, cinnamon and ginger against drug-resistant clinical pathogens or the effect of sleep deprivation on physiological and mental health in healthy young adults.
If you choose to start this course in January you will study exactly the same course but over a slightly shorter timescale in Year 1. This is ideal if you missed the September start, want to transfer from a different university or course or just need a bit more time to prepare for life at university.

Accreditation and professional recognition

The degree is accredited¹ and recognised by the following bodies:

The Royal Society of Biology

This course has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB) for the 2024/25 intake. This means that when you graduate you may be eligible to apply for professional registration with the RSB and then as a Registered Scientist (RSci) with The Science Council to receive accreditation¹ (additional costs may apply).

Our Award-winning Green Superlab

With space for over 250 students and packed full of industry-standard equipment, the Coventry University Superlab is an amazing place to learn, experiment and discover. Find out what we’re doing in our Superlab to make it greener and reduce our waste and carbon emissions.

Studying Human Biosciences has been an exciting journey and has given me many opportunities to discover my desired career path. The modules are taught by amazing professors using various teaching styles which made learning for me very effective and fun. This course also has awesome communication methods where many placements and study abroad opportunities are advertised. During my application to study abroad, I received a lot of support and advice throughout the whole process which I found extremely helpful.
Mathuja Nagarasa, current student, Human Biosciences BSc (Hons), 2022

What you'll study

This course has a common first year.

The common first year enables you to work alongside students doing similar courses to you, to widen your knowledge and exposure to other subject areas and professions. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with other students, so you can share your insights and experience which will help you to develop and learn.

If you discover an interest in a specific subject you have studied, upon successful completion of your first year, you could swap degrees with another course in your common first year (subject to meeting progression requirements).

Common first year courses

Biomedical Science BSc (Hons)
Biological and Forensic Sciences BSc (Hons)
Pharmacology BSc (Hons)

In the first year, the curriculum is shared across related courses allowing you to gain a broad grounding in the discipline before going on, in the second and third years, to specialist modules in your chosen field.

Modules

Human physiology: Homeostasis and Health - 20 credits

You will study the physiology, organisation, structure, and function of key physiologic/organ systems (e.g., nervous, musculo-skeletal, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, reproductive, gastrointestinal, and renal systems). You will investigate cause-and-effect mechanisms and the interaction between systems in maintaining homeostasis and good health. There will be some discussion of consequences of homeostatic mechanisms breaking down to foster an understanding of human body function with an appreciation of disease states. You will be introduced to laboratory-based techniques e.g., electromyography, electrocardiograms, and spirometry, for the measurement of different physiological variables. You will also develop study skills such as accessing scientific literature, appropriate referencing and academic writing.

Compulsory

Genetics, Heredity and Evolution - 20 credits

This module will introduce the fundamental principles of inheritance, human genetics, population genetics and evolutionary principles. Inheritance patterns including human blood groups and mitochondrial inheritance patterns will be explored. Ethical issues surrounding access to genetic information will be discussed as well as the impact of historical events and projects. You will take part in collaborative working and develop presentation and peer feedback skills.

Compulsory

Structure, Function and Analysis of Biomolecules - 20 credits

This module examines the structure and function of key biological molecules. Chemical principles relating to proteins, carbohydrates and lipids will be considered and linked to function. This module will also place emphasis on the fundamental techniques used to analyse biological molecules and the principles of these methods. The theory and practical application of relevant analytical methods will be considered. Throughout this module there will also be the development of Good Laboratory Practice and fundamental laboratory procedures and techniques. You will be introduced to R, a programming language for statistical computing and graphics, and use it in the analysis of data.

Compulsory

Cell Communication, Structure, and Function - 20 credits

You will examine cellular structure, communication, enzymes and metabolic pathways in this module. Cellular interactions and cell signalling will be included and considered alongside aspects of pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. The energy used to drive these processes will be considered especially in relation to the role of enzymes of catalysts. Key metabolic and signalling pathways will be explored and considered in relation to drug development processes

Compulsory

The Microbial World - 20 credits

This module introduces the different types of infectious agents that are relevant to human health and considers the different ways in which these agents can be cultured, enumerated, controlled and analysed. Relevant laboratory techniques are also developed and used to consolidate the theoretical teaching. The immune system and the key components are also introduced and examined in the way in which these are relevant to preventing and eliminating infection. Current and emerging topics such as vaccination and antimicrobial resistance are also discussed.

Compulsory

Applied Techniques in Biology - 20 credits

In this module you will explore the application of fundamental biology principles to practical exercises, to mimic real-life scenarios in commercial and applied biology. The module considers, among other things, our genetic information, its structure, function and inheritance (genotype), and how this determines the characteristics of an individual (phenotype). The module introduces you to human individual variation and the central dogma of DNA to RNA to protein (transcription and translation). In addition, you will gain knowledge and skills relating to the retrieval and analysis of biological sequence information using bioinformatics tools and analytical software such as Excel and R. Ethical issues, such as increased access to genomic information, quality control and accreditation issues, will be considered. You will be supported to understand and practice effective collaboration strategies, including record keeping and use of collaborative software, plus giving and receiving of feedback.

Compulsory

In year two, you will develop more advanced knowledge and skills to do with: human health and disease, microorganisms, genetic diversity, neurophysiology and the immune system, among others.

Modules

Healthy Human Physiology - 20 credits

Integrates topics in human physiology, cell biology and biochemistry extended from year one study, to consider the physiological control and feedback mechanisms of the human body, maintaining a healthy state of homeostasis. The biochemical and hormonal control and integration of metabolic reactions, particularly relating to energy balance, is also discussed. The module examines the role of diet and exercise in relation to maintaining healthy body mass. Links between poor diet and lack of exercise, obesity and diabetes are discussed, preparing students for future considerations of global health challenges relating to these lifestyle choices. You will also integrate learning from this module, together with learning from Microorganisms in Human Health and Disease in a course-based, integrated assessment module Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Disease which focuses on the association between gut microbiota and human health and disease.

Compulsory

Microorganisms in Human Health and Disease - 20 credits

This module explores prokaryotes and other microbes as commensals, agents of disease and as sources of antibiotics. Increasing evidence highlights the important role of our diverse gut microbiome to modulate metabolic processes and to protect against disease. Methods to study this diversity including contemporary molecular based techniques will be discussed, alongside the consequences of dysbiosis and the development of disease states. Pathogenic interactions between microorganisms, both cellular (bacteria, fungi and parasites) and viral, with human and nonhuman hosts will be explored. The module will also consider how human behaviour has impacted on microbial evolution, such as the selection of antibiotic resistance, and the use of microorganisms as antibiotic sources. You will also integrate learning from this module, together with learning from Human Physiology: Health and Homeostasis in a course based integrated assessment module Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Disease which focuses on the association between gut microbiota and human health and disease.

Compulsory

Human Genetic Diversity - 20 credits

explores natural genetic variation and epigenetics in humans. Genetic studies in humans are complex for both ethical reasons and because of limitations imposed by natural variation. Thus, the module will also consider the uses of model organisms for genetic studies. Topics addressed will include how tissue-specific gene expression, chromatin and DNA modifications, heterozygosity and dominance effects affect gene expression and phenotypes. Methods to analyse genetic variation, gene expression and new ways to explore the causes of disease phenotypes will be discussed.

Compulsory

Neurophysiology - 20 credits

Mental disorders have significant impacts on health and have social and economic consequences worldwide. This module introduces you to the applied physiology of the brain and nervous system. The physiological disruption of normal processes of neurotransmission, resulting in disorders of movement, memory, behaviour, anxiety and mood are discussed.

Compulsory

The Immune System in Health and Disease - 20 credits

Explores the role played by our immune system in both health and disease. The module will consider both the innate and adaptive immune responses and their actions to protect the host in cases of pathogen attack. It will also explore how chronic inflammation, rather than being protective, is now recognised as a determining factor in several non-communicable diseases. Dysfunctions of the immune system, including hypersensitivity, autoimmunity and immunodeficiency will also be covered, alongside immune responses to transplants and manipulation of the immune system for therapeutic purposes.

Compulsory

Modern Lifestyles, Health and Disease - 20 credits

This module investigates how modern lifestyles, and our changing environment are affecting human health both positively and negatively. The module considers the physiological consequences of the rapid changes resulting from increased urbanisation. You will be exploring research related to addressing UN sustainable development goal 3 – Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages; UN sustainable development goal 4 - Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all; and UN sustainable goal 10 - Reduce inequality within and among countries. The module will also focus on the importance of effective communication of scientific knowledge to lay audiences to advance understanding and to influence behavioural change and policy decisions.

Compulsory

There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement² can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur between your second and final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

If you choose to do a work placement year, you will pay a reduced tuition fee³ of £1,250. For more information, please go to the fees and funding section. During this time you will receive guidance from your employer or partner institution, along with your assigned academic mentor who will ensure you have the support you need to complete your placement.

Modules

UK Work Placement– 0 credits

This module² provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

International Study/Work Placement – 0 credits

This module² provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

Your final year aims to bring you to the level to enter the world of work by consolidating your knowledge and skills from year one and two. You could also work on a large final project in an area of your interest, with the support of a mentor.

Modules

Metabolic Non-Communicable Diseases - 20 credits

The major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide result from non-communicable diseases (NCD), including cardiovascular diseases, liver disease and diabetes mellitus. In this module, current research approaches to dissect and understand the mechanisms underlying the development of these conditions is discussed, including the impact of lifestyle choices and behaviours. Learning from this module will also be integrated with learning from Infectious Disease: Present and Future Challenges in an integrated course-based assessment focussing on the health challenges of multiple conditions Multimorbidity: An Emerging Health Challenge.

Compulsory

Infectious Disease: Present and Future Challenges - 20 credits

This module focuses on the varied infectious disease challenges that affect human populations in different communities worldwide. It discusses the epidemiology of emerging and re-emerging diseases, the increasing problems of healthcare acquired infection, the rise of antibiotic resistance and strategies to counter this. It will also consider the continuing global burden of neglected tropical diseases. This module relates to Goal 3 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the target to end the epidemics of AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and neglected tropical diseases and combat hepatitis, water-borne diseases and other communicable disease. Learning from this module will also be integrated with learning from Metabolic Non-Communicable Disease in an integrated course-based assessment focussing on the health challenges of multiple conditions Multimorbidity: An Emerging Health Challenge.

Compulsory

Research Design - 20 credits

In this module, you will prepare for your final year research project and for life after graduation. The module will support you through the process of defining your research question, planning your experiments and considering the most appropriate data analysis methods. The module is designed to enhance skills in literature searching, experimental design, scientific writing, data processing and statistical analysis. You will be required to submit your proposal for ethical and health and safety approval, and to address key aspects of project management and logistics. The module will also consider how novel ideas and findings can be harnessed to deliver commercial value. The multidisciplinary nature of enterprise and innovation, opportunities for commercial development of ideas and an awareness of intellectual property will be discussed.

Compulsory

Biology of Human Ageing - 20 credits

The structure of populations around the world is changing due to advances in health care and disease management. Human life expectancy has increased by more in the past 40 years than in the previous 4000 years. However, as life expectancy increases, so does the amount of time spent in poor health. Thus, ageing potentially represents the greatest health challenge for the 21st century. This module focuses on the cellular and molecular changes that occur during the human lifespan with a focus on processes associated with ageing. Changes in the ability of tissues to regenerate, cellular and DNA damage, circadian rhythm and hormonal alterations and aberrant protein folding resulting in disease phenotypes are considered.

Compulsory

Genomics, Disease and Personalised Therapy - 20 credits

Our increasing genomic knowledge has led to advances in medical treatment such that therapies may now be tailored to the unique molecular or genetic characteristics of individual patients. This module will consider the impact of genomic knowledge and advances in genomic analysis on the understanding of mechanisms of disease, and the potential for development of these personalised therapies. It will also consider how applicable these approaches are worldwide.

Compulsory

Independent Project - 20 credits

The aim of this module is for you to conduct a piece of investigative research, which may be laboratory or non-laboratory based, in a specialised area of Human Biosciences. This module follows from Research Proposal and Graduate preparedness for Biosciences and you will implement your research proposal in this module. The variety and scope of projects allows you to pursue your own interests, potentially linked to future career aspirations, and to integrate prior skills and knowledge. Thus, this module, together with Research Proposal and Graduate preparedness for Biosciences provides a capstone experience and is a key requirement for graduation with an Honours classification. You will be supported and guided by your supervisor, but are encouraged to develop independence of thought, and the ability and confidence to adapt and evolve your research ideas, based on reflective practice. The skills and competencies developed during the project period that enhance employability will be articulated in a short personal skills reflection.

Compulsory

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

The human organism has so many different fascinating aspects to it. From the cells to the systems, I have always been captivated by them. This course not only explores these but also genetics and microbiology while gaining hands-on laboratory experience. What's more, it has made me more passionate and self-confident to pursue a career in research than I was before!
Maria Portokalidi, Human Biosciences BSc (Hons) student, 2022

How you'll learn

Throughout your studies, you will have the opportunity to develop a good knowledge of a range of disciplines and how they apply to human health and disease, including both theory and lab-based classes.

You will have the opportunity to undertake challenging lab and non-lab based independent research projects, dealing with important life science research questions, which in the past have tackled, for example, the antimicrobial activity of essential oils, cinnamon and ginger against drug resistant clinical pathogens or the effect of sleep deprivation on physiological and mental health in healthy young adults.

Teaching methods include:

Lectures
Seminars
Presentations
Projects
Workshops
Practical laboratory sessions, supported by an extensive suite of analytical and biological laboratories staffed by experienced technicians.

You will be allocated a dedicated Personal Academic Tutor for the duration of the first year of your course, who will schedule regular 1:1 meetings with you and with whom you can make an appointment. You can also arrange to see other members of staff in ‘drop in’ sessions for any additional help you may need.

If you choose to start this course in January it will be run as a condensed programme. You’ll start your course in January and finish your first year in August. Upon successful completion of Year 1, you will progress onto Year 2 in September and then continue to start subsequent years of your course in September, completing your degree at the same time as the September starters unless you opt to do a placement year.

Teaching contact hours

Depending on the year of study you will typically have been 9-18 hours of structured weekly teaching and learning hours which may include activities such as workshops, laboratories, online tutorials, seminars and lectures. This will be supported by a weekly course programme hour with your tutors. In addition, you will be expected to undertake around 18 hours of self-directed study each week.

As an innovative and enterprising institution, the university may seek to utilise emerging technologies within the student experience. For all courses (whether on-campus, blended, or distance learning), the university may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via online technologies and methods.

Since COVID-19, we have delivered our courses in a variety of forms, in line with public authority guidance, decisions, or orders and we will continue to adapt our delivery as appropriate. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.

Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module.

Assessment methods include:

Online tests
Essays and critical reviews of scientific topics
Case studies
Group work for presentations, lab projects and reports
Individual presentations
Laboratory reports
Lab skill competency
Posters and other information resources (e.g. videos, websites, briefing papers)

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

International experience opportunities

By its very nature, the course adopts an international perspective as science knows no borders. We also typically attract students from many different countries providing a varied, multicultural and fulfilling environment in which to learn. We encourage students to mix on group work and projects.

The placement/study abroad option allows a year’s work placement or study, which can be taken abroad². Some former students have studied at the University of Leiden in Holland, for example.

Please note that all international experience opportunities may be subject to additional costs, competitive application, availability, and meeting applicable visa and travel requirements are therefore not guaranteed².

One of the best parts of our job as academics is seeing people develop and succeed. It is lovely to see people graduating and moving into lots of fantastic careers. All the biology that we get to teach and learn about is rather cool too.
Jamie Beddow, Course Director for Human Biosciences BSc (Hons), 2022

A lecturer with students in the SuperLab

Entry requirements

Typical offer for 2024/25 entry.

Requirement	What we're looking for
UCAS points	120
A level	BBB to include Biology. Excludes General Studies
GCSE	Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 4 / C or above including English Language, Mathematics and two sciences
BTEC	DDM in the BTEC Level 3 Extended National Diploma in a Biological Science subject. Excludes Health and Social Care.
IB Diploma	32 points to include 5 points in Biology at Higher Level.
Access to HE	The Access to HE Diploma to include 30 Level 3 credits above Merit of which 15 must be at Distinction in Biology units. Plus GCSE English and Mathematics at grade 4 / C or above.

We recognise a breadth of qualifications, speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

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Are you eligible for the Fair Access Scheme?

We believe every student should have the opportunity to dream big, reach their potential and succeed, regardless of their background. Find out more about our Fair Access Scheme.

Select your region to find detailed information about entry requirements:

Russia and Central Asia

You can view our full list of country specific entry requirements on our Entry requirements page.

If you do not have the typical entry requirements, you may want to consider studying this course with an International Foundation Year. Upon successful completion our International Foundation Year - Biosciences will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to progress onto this undergraduate degree.

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on finding in-country agents and representatives, joining our in-country events and how to apply.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.0 overall (with at least 5.5 in each component area)

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

For more information on our approved English language tests visit our English language requirements page.

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Not got the required grades? We offer this degree with an integrated foundation year.

Fees and funding

2024/25 tuition fees.

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man	£9,250 per year	Not available
EU	£9,250 per year with EU Support Bursary £18,300 per year without EU Support Bursary	Not available
International	£18,300 per year	Not available

If you choose to do a work placement², you should consider travel and living costs to cover this. There is also a tuition fee³ of £1,250 that will cover your academic support throughout your placement year.

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our undergraduate finance page and see the University’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

We offer a range of international scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our international scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them. Find out what's included in your tuition costs.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

Any optional overseas ﬁeld trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad).

Condensed course – January start date

If you choose to start this degree in January please make sure you check the Fees and Finance page for more information. Although starting this course in January does not prohibit you from being eligible for student finance, the way it is paid in your first year differs from those who start their course in September.

If you start the degree in January, your tuition fees will be paid in accordance with the university’s Tuition Fees, Refund and Withdrawal Terms and Conditions for January starters and for any further years of study, your fees will be paid in accordance with the terms for September starters.

*Irish student fees

The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.

**EU Support Bursary

Following the UK's exit from the European Union, we are offering financial support to all eligible EU students who wish to study an undergraduate or a postgraduate degree with us full-time. This bursary will be used to offset the cost of your tuition fees to bring them in line with that of UK students. Students studying a degree with a foundation year with us are not eligible for the bursary.

How do you know if you need to pay UK or international tuition fees?

We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the government's Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

The course will be predominantly taught in the multi-million-pound Alison Gingell Building on the Coventry University main campus. It is home to microbiology, cell culture, molecular biology/genetics, biochemistry and forensic science laboratories⁴, allowing you to work in a professional environment from day one.

Alison Gingell Building

The Alison Gingell Building is home to microbiology, cell culture, molecular biology/genetics, biochemistry and forensic science laboratories, allowing you to work in a professional environment from day one.

Laboratory with people wearing white coats taking samples

SuperLab

Our state-of-the-art SuperLab has facilities for cell culture and equipment for microscopy, DNA, RNA and protein analysis, and forensic testing.

Students using physiology testing equipment

Physiology suite

Separate physiology and health laboratory facilities enable the measurement of physiological parameters such as heart rate, blood pressure, lung function test and neuromuscular functioning.

Careers and opportunities

There is a growing demand for highly skilled staff with the ability to work in multidisciplinary teams, right across industry, in the health service, government establishments, research and educational institutions. Our degree is designed to help you develop a wide range of skills that will be attractive to many different types of employers. We can help you find placements, internships and job opportunities, by advertising jobs, holding an annual jobs fair, helping with CV writing and job interview technique².

Coventry University is committed to preparing you for your future career and giving you a competitive edge in the graduate job market. We provide a wide range of support services to help you plan and prepare for your career.

Recent graduates have gone on to careers in conducting clinical trials for drug companies, as research assistants in laboratories in universities and various roles within industry, such as marketing assistants and medical and scientific representatives for companies. Others have used their qualifications to progress into teaching careers, as well as postgraduate study to obtain MSc, MPhil and PhD qualifications.

Where our graduates work

Our graduates have gone on to work for companies including Binding Site, Rosalind Franklin Laboratory, SciBite, Pharmaron, Weetabix, Campden BRI, GSK, Prime Global, AS&K communications and Thermo Fisher Scientific.

Further study

The course is an excellent foundation for further postgraduate studies leading to an MSc or PhD. We run a range or related taught MSc courses that allow our graduates to specialise in the area that they have a passion for and would like to pursue a career in. These courses also have a ‘with professional experience’ option, allowing students to apply for and complete an extended period of experience in a professional environment.

The Human Biosciences course has given me the knowledge and key skills to feel confident going into the science industry, as well as postgraduate study. The breadth and depth of the modules, as well as being able to tailor the course, helped me direct my learning to my areas of interest. Using the modern university laboratory has really prepared me for professional laboratory roles. The academic staff are incredibly helpful and are always happy to aid your learning.
Stefan Peters, Human Biosciences BSc (Hons) graduate, 2020

Close up of a student conducting an experiement in the SuperLab

Graduate Immigration Route visa

Based on current information from the UK Government, international students whose study extends beyond summer 2021 may be eligible for a visa under the UK Government’s Graduate Immigration Route, which will enable students to stay and work, or look for work, in the UK at any skill level for up to two (2) years. Check the most up to date guidance available to check your eligibility and any updates from the UK Government before making an application or enrolment decision.

How to apply

BSc (Hons) with foundation year

Apply via UCAS

C85

Institution code

View our courses on UCAS

Visit UCAS

UK students

Full-time students applying to start in September 2024 can apply for this course through UCAS. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

How to apply

Apply via UCAS

Part-time students should apply directly to the university.

Apply via the portal

If you'd like further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

+44 (0)24 7765 2222

ukadmissions@coventry.ac.uk

Chat with our admissions team

Complete our contact form

International students

International codes:
HLSU250

How to apply

For further support for international applicants applying for an undergraduate degree view our International hub.

You can also download our International guide which contains lots of useful information about our courses, accommodation and tips for travel.

This course with foundation year is not currently available to international students. If you do not meet the entry requirements to directly join year 1 of the degree, please take a look at our International Pathways Programme for additional options.

Get in touch with us today for further advice and guidance.

+44 (0)24 7765 2152

ioadmissions@coventry.ac.uk

Chat with our admissions team

Complete our contact form

Disclaimers

Coventry University together with Coventry University London, Coventry University Wrocław, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough, and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the University) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University.

¹Accreditations

The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.

²UK and international opportunities

Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or international opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be unpaid and/or subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel, public authority guidance, decisions or orders and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand any visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

³Tuition fees

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

For international students, we may increase fees each year, but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

⁴Facilities

Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and/or may have reduced availability or restrictions where the university is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders.

Student Contract

By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the current 2023/2024 contract is available on the website for information purposes however the 2024/25 Contract is currently being updated so please revisit this page before submitting your application. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.