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Biosciences at Aston University, Birmingham - UCAS

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Course summary

The Aston Master of Research (MRes) in Biosciences is an exceptional programme designed for future researchers who wish to expand their knowledge of the complex field of biology. Advance your scientific career with the MRes Biosciences at Aston University, UK - a research-intensive master’s degree that prepares you for academic, clinical, or industrial careers in biological sciences. This programme offers a wide range of research specialisms, including:

  • Cellular and molecular biology
  • Ageing and age-related disease
  • Immunology
  • Biotechnology
  • Stem cells and tissue engineering
  • Microbiology
This course equips you with both the theoretical foundation and practical laboratory skills needed for a career in scientific research. Whether your goal is to pursue a PhD, work in biotechnology, or contribute to a research-intensive organisation, you’ll gain the expertise to succeed. You’ll explore the core principles, recent developments, and emerging trends within your chosen field of specialisation, alongside a substantial independent research project, giving you the opportunity to:
  • Deepen your understanding of cutting-edge scientific developments.
  • Build advanced skills in laboratory research, data analysis, and critical thinking.
  • Design and carry out experiments, and critically evaluate scientific literature.
How you will learn Our teaching is modern, practical, and research-led, bridging theory with real-world application. Throughout the course, you’ll apply your knowledge in laboratory and project settings, building the skills and confidence needed for a successful career in research or industry. Learning is delivered through a blend of:
  • Lectures, seminars, and tutorials
  • Laboratory work and practical sessions
  • Online learning activities
  • Independent study and guided reflection on feedback
This mix of teaching methods supports both your academic development and your professional growth. What you will learn From the very start of the MRes Biosciences at Aston University, you will develop essential laboratory techniques alongside core skills in research design and scientific communication. The taught modules provide a solid foundation to prepare you for the 120-credit extended research project, which is the central focus of the programme and your year of study.

Modules

Essential Laboratory Skills - Develop practical laboratory skills, including aseptic techniques, sample preparation, data collection, and analysis. Gain hands-on experience with a wide range of laboratory methodologies, instrumentation, and experimental protocols relevant to your field of study, ensuring you are proficient in conducting experiments and generating reliable data in a laboratory setting. | Professional Development and Research Communication Skills - Hone your written and oral communication skills, enabling you to articulate research findings, present complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences, as well as interacting with professionals from industry, academia and health care providers. | Research Competency Assessment - Undergo a comprehensive evaluation of your research competencies, including literature review skills, experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. This module will provide you with valuable feedback and guidance to ensure you are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in your research project. | Postgraduate Research Skills - Acquire the essential skills required for conducting advanced research in biosciences. This module covers a wide range of topics, including research ethics, project planning, data management, statistical analysis, and scientific writing. You will explore best practices for conducting literature reviews, formulating research questions, designing experiments, and analysing and interpreting data. Through practical exercises and workshops, you will gain hands-on experience in research tools, software, and methodologies commonly used in the field of biosciences. This module serves as a vital stepping stone towards independent and impactful research. | Research Project - The Research Project module represents the pinnacle of the MRes Biosciences programme. Under the guidance of a supervisor, you will engage in an original research project that aligns with your interests and chosen specialisation within the field of biosciences. This module provides you with an opportunity to apply the knowledge, skills, and techniques acquired throughout the programme, in order to address a specific research question or problem. You will design and execute experiments, collect and analyse data, interpret results, and draw meaningful conclusions. You will also critically evaluate existing literature, identify gaps in knowledge, and contribute new insights into your field of study. Through regular progress reports, presentations, and written documentation, you will showcase your research findings, and demonstrate your ability to conduct independent, rigorous, and impactful scientific research.

Assessment method

The Biosciences MRes curriculum uses a variety of assessment methods aligned with national educational standards (FHEQ). You will be assessed through a balanced mix of class tests, individual and group coursework, projects, presentations, and practical assessments. This approach ensures you can demonstrate your knowledge, research abilities, and communication skills in ways that reflect real-world scientific practice.


Entry requirements

A UK upper second-class (2:1) honours degree or recognised international equivalent from a recognised university in a biological, biomedical or biochemistry-based subject, or a related field. See international student information below for international equivalent information. The information contained on this web page details the typical entry requirements for this course for the most commonly offered qualifications. Applicants with alternative qualifications may wish to enquire with our admissions team at [email protected] prior to application whether or not their qualifications are deemed acceptable. For less commonly encountered qualifications this will be judged on a case-by-case basis in consultation with our academic admissions tutor.


Fees and funding

Tuition fees

England £11200 Whole course
Northern Ireland £11200 Whole course
Scotland £11200 Whole course
Wales £11200 Whole course
EU £24800 Whole course
International £24800 Whole course

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .

Additional fee information

No additional fees or cost information has been supplied for this course, please contact the provider directly.
Biosciences at Aston University, Birmingham - UCAS