Plant Science: The University of Manchester

Course description

While it is obvious that plants support the continued existence of life on Earth, this course deals with far more than photosynthetic energy capture! The fascinating reproductive processes and global importance of non-flowering plants, and the increasingly important role of plants in biotechnology, are just two of the broad range of topics. The significance of plants in global ecosystems, and as providers of food, vaccines and raw materials for industry are also considered.

Plant science covers an enormously broad area, incorporating many biological disciplines from genetics, through molecular and cellular biology, to whole organisms. Field studies form an important part of their teaching, and you will attend two field courses, one during the first year and another in the second.

The final year has no compulsory elements. Popular topics include Pollution and Plants, Plant Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Control of Growth and Reproduction in Plants.

Career opportunities

Bioscience graduates from the University of Manchester go into a variety of careers. About half stay in the life sciences and related disciplines, choosing either to study further research or taught courses such as a Masters or PhD, which could lead onto a career in bioscience, or medicine/dentistry degrees. A significant number go on to complete a science teaching qualification, such as a secondary science PGCE. Those that choose a career outside of the life sciences are highly sought after by large multinationals. Graduate programmes in accountancy, finance, law, marketing and publishing are particularly popular choices for graduates from the Faculty who do not wish to stay in science.

Entry requirements

• English language: Either GCSE grade C, IELTS 6.5 (with not less than 6.5 in any component) or an equivalent qualification.
• A level: Grades AAB-BBB. This should include:
  • 1 of Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Maths and
  • 1 of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Geography, Psychology, Environmental Studies or PE.

  General Studies is welcomed, but is not normally included as part of the offer.

• AS level: 2 AS levels are acceptable in place of the third non-science A-level.
• Unit grade information: The University of Manchester welcomes the provision of unit grade information which, like all other available information, will inform the consideration of applications.
• GCSE: Minimum grade C in English Language and Mathematics.
• Key Skills qualification: The University warmly welcomes applications from students studying the Key Skills qualification.
• International Baccalaureate: 35-32 points overall including 5 or 6 points in two sciences at Higher level, normally Biology and Chemistry.