Course summary

Biology is the science of life and is at the forefront of social change, from the use of genetically-modified organisms to humanity’s effect on the environment, sustainable energy and food production. Whether you're looking for a change of career, or may not have the scientific background or entry requirements for a degree in Biology, our Foundation Year offers the opportunity to fill in any knowledge gaps and build your confidence. As a biology student at Kent you study living organisms and their interactions with the environment, investigating life forms ranging from viruses and bacteria to complex animals and plants. You’ll learn from inspirational academics working at the cutting-edge of research with access to fantastic facilities. Reasons to study Biology with a Foundation Year at Kent

• Our foundation year offers you the flexibility to progress to degrees across our Division of Natural Sciences. You may choose a degree in Biomedical Science, but equally you could opt for a degree within another area of Biosciences, or Chemistry, Forensic Science or Sport and Exercise Sciences.

• Regular investment in our laboratories ensures you learn in a world-class environment.

• Our lecturers are both innovative teachers and active researchers. Two of our academic staff have been awarded National Teaching Fellowships.

• Study a wide range of modules and build your degree around your interests.

• Focus on your future with expert careers advice and the opportunity to take a paid Summer Studentship, giving you valuable hands-on experience in our research labs.

• Get real-world experience and see how your degree can help build a better world with hospital visits as part of your course.

• We collaborate with research groups in industry and academia and have excellent links with local employers, including the NHS, Lonza and Sekisui Diagnostics, Roche, Sanofi and Pfizer.

• Get involved with science outside of the lab by joining Kent BioSoc. This student-run society holds a seminar series, academic talks, trips and social events.

• In your foundation year, you study compulsory modules in biology, chemistry and scientific methods, plus a choice of optional modules. On successful completion of the foundation year, you will have reached a standard above A level and so be fully equipped to tackle a BSc degree course.

• In the first year of your Biology degree, you will start by gaining an insight into key biological disciplines, including anthropology, biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, evolution, genetics, infection and immunity, microbiology, and the physiology of animals and plants. You’ll gain expertise in laboratory practical work and the analysis and presentation of biological data.

• Next you’ll build on this knowledge and develop your skills as a bio scientist, covering areas such as animal form and function, plant physiology and adaptation, gene expression, infection and immunity, and microbial physiology.

• In your final year, tailor your degree to your interests through optional modules and a research project of your choice, which may be laboratory, business, computing or communication based.