Biological Sciences (Cell and Molecular Biology) BSc (Hons)

Cell and Molecular Biology (Biochemistry) is the basic science underpinning our understanding of all life processes. In this course, we cover cell and molecular biological aspects of animals and plants, and provide the broad understanding necessary for a career in the biomedical/pharmaceutical, food and biotechnological industries as well as providing a sound foundation for further research.<br/><br/>**Year 1**<br/>Introduces Biology largely as Human Biology with accompanying courses in Applied and Environmental Biology. Additional subjects include Mathematics for Scientists and Chemistry, as required for an understanding of future courses in Biochemistry and Physiology.<br/><br/>**Year 2**<br/>Concentrates on broad topics in Biology, especially Whole Organism Biology of Animals, Plants and Microorganisms; Cell Structure and Biochemistry; and Nutrition and Health.<br/><br/>**Year 3**<br/>Introduces more advanced Cell and Molecular Biology and a detailed functional analysis of Biological Macromolecules.<br/><br/>**Year 4**<br/>Students choose from courses covering Genomics; Molecular Toxicology; Cell Biology and Cancer; Plant Cell Biochemistry; and Immunology. As with all our Honours degrees, you will pursue a research project as the practical component of the final year.

Heriot-Watt are 2nd in the UK for undergraduate employability (Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2024) and 25th in the UK overall (Complete University Guide, 2025). You’ll have lifelong access to their award-winning Careers Service and join the oldest alumni association in the UK with over 166,000 members in 190 countries – The Watt Club.<br/><br/>A vibrant nightlife, eclectic food scene and plenty of shops and green space – Edinburgh has it all. It’s a safe and friendly city and a great place to be a student. That’s why it’s ranked UK’s 2nd best student-friendly city (QS Best Student Cities, 2025). <br/><br/>Moving away from home is a big decision, which is why students from England, Wales and Northern Ireland are offered a £1,500 travel home bursary. This no-strings-attached bursary means you can visit home anytime during your first year (or spend it on something else).<br/><br/>Register for your Heriot-Watt Priority Pass to make sure you are first in line when Clearing opens, or to chat with their friendly team.