Plant Sciences with Placement Year MBiolSci

at University of Sheffield

A selection of modules are available each year - some examples are below. There may be changes before you start your course.

 

Choose a year to see modules for a level of study:

 

First year
In your first year, you'll spend your first week on a field course in Sheffield, collecting and analysing data throughout the city's green spaces and out to the edge of the Peak District. Throughout the year, you’ll study topics including developmental biology, disease, photosynthesis, sustainability and climate change. You'll develop practical skills in the lab, including microscopy and genetics, complemented by regular field trips to zoos, aquariums and nature reserves. You'll also have lectures and take part in small group tutorials where you'll enhance your writing, data analysis and presentation skills as you learn about the latest research findings from our world-leading academics.

 

Core modules

• Climate Change and Sustainability
• Principles of Ecology and Conservation
• Skills in Biology
• Ecological identification skills

 

Second year

In your second year, you’ll build on your new skills and knowledge covering more advanced scientific topics and techniques across plant science. Some students choose to take our science communication module where you'll get the chance to make your own factual science documentaries, with support and advice from professional filmmakers. 

 

All of our plant sciences students receive training in modern data analysis techniques and get the opportunity to participate in an optional two-week intensive project, designing and carrying out your own research. Depending on your focus, this could be in the field, giving you the chance to develop an understanding of the ecology and biodiversity of different habitats across the globe, or in one of our world-class labs here in Sheffield, dedicated to an area such as molecular biology, genetics or even wildlife forensics.

 

Core modules:

• Conservation Principles and Realities
• Population and Community Ecology
• Biological Field Skills
• Skills in Biology II

 

Third year

You'll spend your third year on a work placement in industry. Previous students have found placements within industry, charities or government at organisations that include Atkins Environmental Consulting, Cadbury (Mondelēz International), Kew Gardens and Transport for London.

 

Fourth year

Once you return from your placement, in your fourth year you'll complete a research project and dissertation in an area of plant science that interests you alongside your chosen specialist modules.

 

Conducted under the supervision of one of our world experts, you'll work in a small group to define questions, develop experimental protocols, conduct the research, analyse the data and ultimately produce a written report in the form of a scientific publication.

 

Core modules:

• Biological Field Research
• Conservation Issues and Management
• Topics in Modern Ecology
• Literature Review
• Research Project

 

Fifth year

In your fifth year, the majority of your time will be devoted to a major research project that will equip you with the advanced laboratory, data analysis and writing skills you'll need for a successful and rewarding career in science.

 

You'll be embedded within one of our specialist research groups, conducting independent research and interacting with academics and lab staff as a professional scientist.

 

Core modules:

• Research & Communication Skills in Biology
• Research Dissertation
• Advanced Biological Analysis
• Research Project