Postgraduate courses in Biology
If you’re looking for a career in the field of biology, why not begin your search for the right postgraduate degree for you?
There are multiple areas of biology covered by different courses. Below are examples of what courses you can find in the UK and where your career could take you.
What is biology?
Biology is the study of organisms including their anatomy, behaviour, origin, distribution, morphology and physiology.
Courses
There are many postgraduate courses in biology. Some offer the opportunity to study either full time or part time. Examples of courses available are:
Molecular Biology
A course in molecular biology is suited to those with an honours degree in Bioscience or Biological Chemistry and studies the basis of life focusing on the structure and function of DNA, RNA and protein and their interactions with each other. Core subjects may include cellular molecular biology, genetics, protein biology, numeracy and statistics among others.
Biochemistry
Courses in biochemistry will equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in biochemistry. These courses research and apply techniques in biochemistry, biophysics, structural biology and synthetic biology. A broad range of fields are looked at such as industrial biotechnology, cellular architecture and dynamics as well as infectious disease.
Biodesign
A biodesign course allows students to look closely at bio-informed design strategies as a driver for sustainable innovation. These courses look at the inherent life-conductive principles of biological living systems into the design process. Students will articulate alternative and new innovative design propositions for a future bio-circular economy.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements can differ from course to course and university to university. However, when looking for a postgraduate degree to suit you, you must have an undergraduate degree in biology or a related field. In some courses, a 2.1 degree is required while others may require a 2.2 degree.
The requirements for each course will differ so it is important to research in detail. More information can be found online on university websites and course overviews.
Job options
Some job option include:
- Biologist
- Biotechnologist
- Marine biologist
- Microbiologist
- Academic researcher
- Research scientist
- Teacher/Professor
Potential employers
Potential employers include:
- Pharmaceuticals
- Biotechnology
- Scientific consultancies
- Technical consultancies
- Universities
- Environmental consultancies
- Museums
Salary expectation
Your salary depends completely on what route you take with your degree. For example, if you take the education route, a postdoctoral researchers’ salary can range from £27,000 to £39,000. If you took another route such as becoming a biologist, your salary may be around £25,180. Salaries often increase with experience.
Skills and requirements
- Strong communication skills – written and verbal
- Strong research and analysis skills
- Problem solver
- Good time management and organisation skills
- Work well with others
- Trust your own initiative
- Knowledge of IT and technology
- An interest and understanding of biology
- Numeracy and maths
