Evolutionary Biology BSc (Hons)

University of St Andrews

The BSc (Hons) in Evolutionary Biology deals with the theory of evolution, evolutionary genetics, environmental physiology, terrestrial and aquatic ecology, evolution of behaviour, biodiversity and conservation, computational genomics, human evolution, and evolutionary ecology.

Course information

The BSc in Evolutionary Biology is a four-year course run by the School of Biology. Evolutionary Biology at St Andrews provides students with high-tech equipment, laboratories and expertise to facilitate learning and to develop the skill set of a modern evolutionary biologist.

In first year and second year, modules introduce you to core subject material relevant to all degree programmes in areas such as animal and plant biology, molecular biology, cell biology and genetics.

Alongside biology, in the first year of your studies, you will be required to study an additional two subjects. In the second year, you will usually carry on at least one of these subjects, sometimes two.

In third year, there is a shift from core, broad-themed modules to more specialised modules which allow students to prepare for their Honours degree. In fourth year, students continue specific research in their chosen area through student-led, enquiry-based learning.

Assessment

During first and second year, all modules are assessed by an equal weighting of coursework and written examinations.

In third year, most modules give a higher weighting to examinations, and in fourth year some modules are entirely assessed by coursework, while others still include written examinations in addition to coursework.

Most examinations are held at the end of the semester during a dedicated exam diet and revision time is provided beforehand.

Group activities may also be assessed, and in this case marking methods will be communicated to you in advance.