Course summary

Lancaster University’s BSc Biology with Psychology (Placement Year) is for those who want to explore the biological processes which underpin human behaviour, and who wish to gain work experience as part of their degree. It has been designed for those wishing to develop an understanding of the influences that govern human behaviour, underpinned by knowledge of the biology of the system. It provides you with support to secure a paid placement for twelve months working in the type of organisation that you might aspire to join when you graduate. The placement offers you the opportunity to work as a full time employee of the organisation with the same training and opportunities as other employees, whilst still receiving both academic and pastoral support from Lancaster University. The degree is taught jointly by our biology academics and the Department of Psychology. Lancaster University is ranked fifth in the UK for biological sciences and 10th for psychology by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2019. You will gain a core knowledge of biology and psychology and can choose optional modules according to your interests and career aspirations. The core modules on the degree principally focus on understanding the biology that underpins human behaviour and aim to provide the opportunity to understand psychology in greater depth. You will be encouraged to link your study of biology to a progressive understanding of developmental, physiological and cognitive psychology. To prepare students for their work placement year, our Careers and Placements Team will provide advice and guidance on: the skills required to create effective CVs, cover letters and applications; tips and techniques on how to make an impact at interviews and assessment centres; how to create a relevant digital profile; and how to research employers and career sectors of interest. In addition, there is great emphasis placed upon developing self-awareness and on how to present yourself in a professional manner to employers. This optional provision will be delivered via a blend of traditional and digital methods including face-to-face workshops, online webinars, e-courses and 1:1 appointments. You will spend your third year on an industrial placement, which may be science or non-science based. Although you will be supported by professional careers staff in preparing your industrial placement application, due to the competitive nature of these placements it is possible that not all students will be successful in securing these nationally-advertised opportunities. Students who have not secured an industrial placement will automatically be transferred over to the degree without the placement year - the BSc Biology with Psychology. During your degree, you will conduct an independent research project and benefit from the research experience of our internationally renowned academics. You will also receive training in the key techniques associated with modern biosciences. The facilities for studying Biology at Lancaster University are excellent - we have invested over £4 million in new life science teaching laboratories.