Biology
You can’t help but be fascinated by the study of life in all its forms, from single cells to whole organisms. Whether your interest lies in people, other animals or plants – or all three –studying biology will help you understand more about the world around you, and more about how those forms of life interact with each other and the environment. Advances in this vibrant, fast-moving science are having a major impact on all our lives.
As a professional biologist you could be addressing any number of challenges: developing new medicines and vaccines, ensuring the safety of our food, or protecting the planet’s biodiversity.
An OU qualification in biology can help you build a rewarding career in sectors such as agriculture, biomedicine, genetics, horticulture, and food and drink. You could, for example, work as a researcher or technician in industry, health care or education. Or you could work in scientific support services, as a forensic scientist or ecological consultant, say.
Where to start in Biology
We strongly recommend that all new students start with a Level 1 course. If you know you want to study biology with the OU, we strongly recommend that you start at Level 1 with Exploring science (S104) or with Introducing health sciences: a case study approach (SDK125), depending on your interests. Either of them will provide you with a solid grounding for your future studies.
Students new to higher education, to OU study or to science are advised to begin with our 10-point course Science starts here (S154), specifically aimed at those students who aren’t sure about distance learning, have done little or no science in the past and whose maths is rusty (or non-existent!).
Worried about your ability? Or the time it will take? If you're a UK resident you can start with one of our Openings courses: short courses with lots of support and no exams, giving you a gradual introduction to your subject and the world of studying.
Don't forget that if you need help considering options you can talk to an adviser. And if you have some previous study experience you may qualify for credit transfer.
Degrees
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Life Sciences
This degree is a fascinating exploration of biological and human sciences, from the complexity and diversity of life to the impact of science on society. -
Natural Sciences
A truly interdisciplinary science degree, giving the opportunity to study a wide range of sciences with a particular emphasis on the scientific issues vital to today’s society. -
Open degree
The BA/BSc Open Degree provides a flexible way to combine a range of courses from different subjects either to suit your particular career or personal interests, or to complete studies you have started elsewhere.
Foundation Degrees
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Analytical Sciences
Develop knowledge, skills and competencies which underpin practice across many professions in the analytical sciences sector. You must be sponsored and registered by your employer.
Certificates
Courses in Biology
See the list of all our individual courses in Biology.
Postgraduate options
If you already have a degree, you may want to see postgraduate courses and qualifications in Science.
An undergraduate subject in Science
Spotlight on Biology
Are you ready?
Are you ready for S204? is a set of interactive self-assessment questions for people interested in studying Uniformity and diversity (S204). You will receive feedback on each question as you complete it, and overall feedback that will enable you to judge for yourself whether or not you’re sufficiently prepared to embark on Uniformity and diversity (S204).
Indulge in a short course
If you have studied science in the past, but are new to OU study or to biology, you could begin with one of our short courses, such as Life in the oceans: exploring our blue planet (S180), or Human genetics and health issues (SK195), depending on your interests.
Got a question?
Contact an adviser in our Student Registration & Enquiry Service
Email or call +44(0) 845 300 60 90
