Course summary

The foundation year will introduce you to study at university and your chosen subject. It also provides a highly supportive environment where you can develop your self-confidence. We are going through a rapid period of climate change and global food security is facing unprecedented threats from changing weather patterns. It is therefore essential that we significantly increase our food production for the growing population on this planet. To achieve these goals, we not only need to develop high yielding crop plants but also varieties that can remain productive under stressful and variable growing conditions. Plant Scientists are highly in demand because they will play the central role in this endeavour. Our Plant Science course is designed to give you an in-depth understanding of the latest concepts in genetics, plant breeding, gene mapping, plant physiology and data analysis. You’ll develop the skills to collect and analyse scientific data independently, leading you towards an independent research project in your final year, where you can research a topic of your own choice with specific employment goals in mind. This also encourages close collaboration between you and your lecturers, involving you in their research. In addition to lectures, seminars and workshops, you’ll complete intensive practical weeks to accelerate your skills development and produce a CV-ready portfolio of skills that will evidence your competency to employers once you graduate. Top reasons to study with us You'll develop your practical skills in our state-of-the-art laboratories and have the opportunity to broaden your experience by interacting with a range of employers in the field, such as major local growers and advisory companies such as the Fruit Advisory Services Team (FAST) at Brogdale. 100% of our students were satisfied overall with their course in the subject area of Molecular Biology, Biophysics and Biochemistry. National Student Survey 2022 You’ll have opportunities to be actively involved in research as an intern, volunteer or through an industry focused Honours Research project. Professional accreditation Our course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology. Accredited degrees contain a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers. Specialist facilities Our Verena Holmes building, at the heart of our Canterbury Campus, houses impressive lab equipment, including a full set of science laboratories and an excellent team of highly qualified lab technicians to support you. Location This course is run at our Canterbury Campus in Kent. Canterbury is just 50 miles south-east of London and less than an hour by high-speed train from St Pancras. Located on a UNESCO World Heritage Site the campus offers state-of-the-art buildings, right in the centre of a vibrant and world-famous cathedral city. You’ll benefit from a campus with excellent learning and teaching resources, music venues, a superb sports centre, a well-stocked bookshop and plenty of coffee bars and places to eat. A short walk away is Augustine House our award-winning library and home to a vast range of learning resources and student support teams.