Some familiarity with chemistry and the biological disciplines is essential. In general, the time devoted to biochemistry or medical biochemistry increases from the first to the final year. Immunology BSc - this programme combines extensive study of immunology with courses in cell and molecular biology, genetics and parasitology. Courses cover all aspects of immunology, but concentrate upon the cellular, molecular and genetic aspects of processes involved in protective immunity and immunological disorders such as autoimmune diseases. Microbiology BSc - this programme includes studies of the physiology, biochemistry, genetics and ecology of microorganisms.
Specialised courses cover medical microbiology and environmental microbiology.
Advanced courses allow in-depth study of microbial molecular genetics, microbial cell biology and physiology, with options in related areas such as immunology and marine microbiology. Microbiology and Environmental Biotechnology BSc - this is an alternative to the Microbiology programme, giving the opportunity to specialise in the rapidly expanding area of technologies, based on understanding the properties of microorganisms, that are being used to create a sustainable environment in an increasingly crowded world. Molecular Genetics BSc - this focuses on the new genetic technologies which further our understanding of genetic mechanisms and gene expression in microorganisms, higher plants and higher animals. The degree offers the opportunity to specialise, for example, with an emphasis on human genetics, developmental genetics or the molecular genetics of plants or microorganisms. In the second year, students substitute some of the biochemistry options with courses in their second subject.