Biology

UCAS code: C104

Here's what Swansea University says about its Biology course.

Studying living organisms in all their variety is truly fascinating, and helps us to identify critical threats and major opportunities, from the smallest scale to the largest.

Our Biology programme is designed to provide you with a solid foundation in the study of life and ecosystems. Alongside this, we will equip you with the scientific expertise and transferable skills needed to make meaningful contributions towards solving current environmental and societal challenges.

The breadth of the curriculum will allow you to develop your knowledge in relation to the biological principles that govern life on our planet, while building a clear understanding of species, habitats, and ecological processes.

Through a blend of fieldwork, lab research and theoretical study, you will develop the skills to investigate life, from a molecular scale right through to studying whole ecosystems, becoming an effective communicator and collaborative leader, that is ready to tackle global issues such as biodiversity loss, climate change and other environmental crises.

Our degree uses ethical, sustainable and innovative approaches to fully prepare you for a range of meaningful careers in biology, ecology, conservation, and environmental management.

Biology at Swansea University has a strong reputation, and draws students from all over the world. You will be based on our Singleton Park Campus, set in beautiful parkland overlooking Swansea Bay.

You will be joining a high-performing department, which is currently ranked: • 11th in the UK for Research Quality (Complete University Guide 2026) • 14th in the UK for Research – assessed under ‘Biological Sciences’ (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026)

Year 1: Areas studied typically include: animal diversity; form and function; cellular and microbial biology; marine and terrestrial ecology and animal behaviour; molecular and evolutionary biology; plants and algae – diversity, form and function and core skills for bioscientists.

Year 2: Areas studied typically include: animal physiology; cell and immunobiology; coastal marine ecology; ecological microbiology and the cycles of life; ichthyology; molecular ecology; parasitology; plant ecology; terrestrial vertebrates; field ecology (residential) and animal conservation and welfare.

Year 3: Areas studied typically include: biodiversity; biological control of invertebrate pests; epidemiology of infectious diseases; physics for biologists; plant conservation and ecology; sensory ecology; laboratory or field professional skills, phylogeny and macroevolution, hormones and behaviour, international field courses.

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, tutorials, seminars and discussion groups supported by practical classes and field courses. You will be assessed through a variety of methods, including examinations, coursework and a practical research project.