BSc (Hons) Applied Biological Sciences (University of Stirling)

In the first two years of the degree, the focus is on fundamental biological laboratory skills and the underpinning science.  The majority of this teaching will be undertaken in small classes at Forth Valley College (Falkirk Campus), however some second year modules will be delivered at the University of Stirling.

By the third year, most modules will be undertaken at the University of Stirling. In addition, students will benefit from an industrial placement which will offer hands-on experience in the workplace. The final year will include an extended research dissertation, in addition to a number of elective modules. 

The development of good health and safety behaviours and good manufacturing and laboratory practices will be embedded throughout the programme.

Year One

• Applied Sciences: Graded Unit 1
• Laboratory Skills for Science Industries
• Fundamental Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills
• Statistics for Science 1
• Human Body Structure and Function
• Biochemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills
• Fundamental Chemistry: An Introduction
• Microbiology: Theory and Laboratory Skills
• DNA and Genetics
• Cell Biology: Theory and Laboratory Skills
• Biotechnology: An Introduction

Year Two

• DNA Molecular Techniques
• Microbiological Techniques
• Immunological Techniques
• Protein Structure and Function
• Applied Biological Sciences: Graded Unit 2
• Mathematics for Science 1
• Animal Biology
• Plant Biology
• Quality and Health & Safety Systems in Science Industries
• Animal and Plant Cell Culture: An Introduction
• Instrumental Techniques
• Ecology and Ecosystems

Year Three

• Microbiology
• Animal Physiology
• Enzymes and their Applications
• Animal Cell Biology
• Applied Immunology
• Industrial Experience Placement

Year Four

• Honours Project
• Systems Biology
• Molecular Evolution
• Phylogenetics
• Molecular Techniques
• Cell Birth/Life/Death
• Genetic Engineering for the Future

• Research Scientist
• Scientific Technologist
• Microbiologist
• Biomedical Scientist
• Biotechnologist
• Protein Scientist
• Molecular Biologist

Year One entry

One of the following:

• Three Highers at grade B or equivalent (to include either Biology or Chemistry)
• Foundation Apprenticeship in Scientific Technologies plus two further Highers at B or equivalent to include either Biology or Chemistry
• Applicants with a different qualification or grade profile are still welcome to apply, as all applications are considered on their own merits
• A suitable NPA may be accepted in lieu of 1 Higher
• NCs and NPAs shall be considered on a case-by-case basis

Additional Requirements:

• Preference will be given to applicants with a strong science background
• Final selection subject to a successful interview

Year Two entry

• Year Two entry may be available for applicants who currently have or are working towards a 15 credit HNC Applied Sciences or HNC Applied Biological Science and who achieve an A or B in their graded unit
• Applicants with a different qualification or grade profile are still welcome to apply, as all applications are considered on their own merits.

Additional Requirements:

Entry is subject to an assessment of the units within the applicants' HNC programme

For further information, please visit the University of Stirling webpage here.

Further advice for full-time applicants:

• Please ensure you have an online account before starting your application.
• If you created your account prior to September 2016, you will need to register a new account.
• Before starting the application process, please ensure you already hold or are working towards the relevant entry qualifications required for the course you are applying for
• Ensure you use your own personal email address when creating your online account
• Once you have submitted your application, you will receive an automated email immediately
• If you do not receive an acknowledgement e-mail immediately, please check your SPAM/Junk folder
• Please include as much detail as possible in your personal statement such as: the reason you are applying, future career plans, previous employment, relevant experience, hobbies and interests
• Disclosing support needs in your application will not affect your chances of being offered a place on a course at Forth Valley College
• If your application is successful, you will be invited for interview. For January start courses interviews will be in Nov/Dec and interviews for August start courses will take place between February and May
• If your application is unsuccessful, you will be offered support in finding a suitable alternative course
• Applicants who provide a mobile phone number on their application form will be sent a text reminder prior to the day of interview
• If you are unable to attend an interview or wish to withdraw your application - please email student.applications@forthvalley.ac.uk