Biology and History and Philosophy of Science BSc at University of Leeds

This degree enables you to develop knowledge and skills through an exploration of the science and philosophy of living things, as well as a historical understanding of how these fields of study have evolved over time.

You’ll combine practical lab work with classroom-based learning, developing a broad set of biological knowledge and skills, whilst exploring the history of scientific thought, the links between magic, science and religion and the nature of scientific knowledge.

A combination of core and optional modules will enable you to improve your understanding of key topics such as philosophy of science, cell biology and genetics and gain specialist knowledge in areas like philosophy of biology, behavioural ecology and animal development biology.

Specialist facilities

Take a look around our libraries:
Brotherton Library
Laidlaw Library
Edward Boyle Library

A joint honours degree allows you to study the same core topics as students on each single honours course, but you’ll take fewer options and discovery modules so you can fit in both subjects. You’ll also undertake a major research project in either subject in your final year.

Core modules in your first year introduce you to key topics and approaches in biology and history and philosophy of science, from the history of science and the scientific method, to genetics and cell biology.

You’ll also be able to choose from optional modules across topics such as history of medicine or whole organism biology, or take discovery modules from across the wider University.

From this foundation, you’ll build your knowledge and skills over the next two years with a wider range of choice. You’ll choose from a range of modules covering animal and plant life, experimental design, ecology, philosophy of biology, and science communication.

Throughout the degree you’ll build an impressive range of subject knowledge, and develop research and analytical skills. In your final year you’ll also have the chance to showcase these skills, when you focus on a subject of your choice to undertake a research project.

This means you graduate with a wide subject knowledge, plus a range of practical transferrable skills, helping you to succeed in the world of work or further study.