What you need to know about studying biosciences at Surrey

Biosciences help us to understand fundamental life processes, from the behaviour of single cells to entire ecosystems. Discover how you'll develop your skills as a biosciences student at Surrey.

Credit: PAUL STEAD / University of Surrey

Our Biological Sciences BSc, Biochemistry BSc/MSci and Microbiology BSc are ranked top 5 for overall student satisfaction* in the National Student Survey 2026.

We provide access to world-class specialist facilities

In our £12.5 million Innovation for Health Learning Laboratory, you’ll put theory into practice. Our laboratory is fitted with the latest industry equipment and provides a fantastic environment for you to conduct experiments, familiarise yourself with biological science methodology and develop your practical laboratory skills.

As a biosciences student, you'll have exclusive access to our Biosciences Dot, a dedicated space for independent study and relaxation.

We offer unique access to the world of work

Take on a Professional Training placement and experience what it's like to work in the industry. We offer hundreds of placements in various sectors, both in the UK and internationally. You could take a placement with other universities or work in the food industry, conservation or pharmaceutical companies.

Explore your options via our search tool and find out more about our current partner universities and organisations.

A Professional Training placement is a fantastic opportunity to gain practical experience of what you're learning. It also enhances many personal skills and qualities which will be very valuable when you graduate. Rui, Biochemistry BSc

We'll teach you how to make an impact

Our team is made up of active researchers who bring a research-led focus to our courses, ensuring everything you learn is up-to-date and relevant to your future employers.

Across the School, you'll find experts in a range of bioscience specialisms, including:

Dr Natalie Riddell, an expert in immunology and ageing
Dr Sarah Trinder, an expert in pharmacology
Dr Jonathan Brown, an expert on polyphenols in health and disease
Dr Adam Collins, a nutritionist with over 20 years of experience
Dr Jorge Gutierrez-Merino, an expert in the use of probiotics against infectious diseases and inflammatory disorders
Dr Lorenzo Santorelli, expert in zoology and evolutionary biology
Dr Teresa Hollands, an expert in animal nutrition.

We're focused on your future

We’ve developed our course to give our students the best opportunity for a successful career. In fact, 94% of our biosciences graduates are in full-time employment or further study (Graduate Outcomes 2026, HESA), with recent alumni working for the Food Standards Agency, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and AstraZeneca.

Since graduating from Surrey I have worked in sea turtle rescue, hands-on marine mammal care, ocean conservation and biology education... We need passionate people in these fields, now more than ever! Sophie, Biological Sciences BSc

Find out more about our Biosciences courses

*Measured by % positivity based on Q1-24 for all providers listed in the Guardian University Guide league table. The subject groupings corresponding to the courses listed are: Biosciences (non-specific); Molecular biology, biophysics and biochemistry; Microbiology and cell science.