Biosciences

The science of living things has blossomed in universities over the past 50 or so years as the subject has been transformed by momentous events. From the discovery of DNA at the start of this period to the relatively recent decoding of the human genome, the biosciences truly are at the forefront of human research, with perhaps the greatest excitements lying in the knowledge that we have barely touched the surface. There is so much out there for you to discover.

Put simply (and this maybe the only part that you can put simply), bioscience is the study of the research, development and manufacture of molecules and biological processes that perform key functions in animals and humans. It is the key to animal life on earth.

There are a number of choices to be made right from the off- more than 100 universities offer courses, covering an increasingly broad discipline, including biology, botany, zoology; genetics, microbiology, molecular biology and biophysics, biochemistry and biotechnology. And that's just the titles - within those courses there's a whole new set of choices for specialisations you might want to consider.

Once you're there, be prepared for a lot of practical work in the laboratory, as with most science degrees, although before you do any serious work in a white coat, there is also a fairly large amount of theoretical work required to under-stand the processes and latest developments. Most universities encourage some independent study through dissertations and projects, which can be an excellent way to develop your research and presentation skills, and give you the confidence in your own original thought.

A BSc in the biosciences is often a good prelude to a more specialised MSc - food biotechnology, virology and biochemical engineering perhaps, although the options are manifold - or a research degree at MPhil or PhD level. Many graduates do move straight into industry, though, into the fields of pharmaceuticals, food, hospitals, laboratories or medical research. There is increasing demand for biosciences, and more than 90% of graduates land a job in the first year after graduation (although not necessarily their dream job, of course).

Most honours degrees in bioscience last four years, though if you already have a related qualification it is sometimes possible to enter directly into the second year (although you may find it difficult to make friends). Science A-levels are virtually a necessity, particularly, you won't he surprised to know, in biology and chemistry.

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