MSci Molecular & Cellular Biology at University of Glasgow

Programme overview

Molecular and cellular biology combines biochemistry, genetics and cell biology to explain how molecular function produces living cells, tissues and whole organisms. Teaching is research-led, with practical laboratory classes in modern molecular biology techniques from year 1. The MSci adds a placement year between year 3 and the final year, normally spent on research in industry or a research institute.

What you will study

Year 1 is a general introduction to modern biology with optional courses from other subjects; year 2 covers fundamental topics in biology and genes, molecules and cells; Honours years cover molecular genetic methods, genomics, proteins, membranes, DNA structure and function, gene expression, bioinformatics and biotechnology, plus an individual research project. The MSci adds a placement year between year 3 and the final year, normally spent on research in industry or a research institute.

Career pathways

Graduates have moved into roles such as associate scientist, laboratory scientist, data analyst, manufacturing scientist, quality control analyst and trainee clinical scientist.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

MSci applications are not taken via UCAS; students apply for transfer during the BSc. Entry to the BSc route (UCAS C720): A-level (standard offer): AAB; plus A-level Biology or Chemistry at A. IB (standard offer): 34 (6,5,5 HL); plus HL Biology or Chemistry at 6. Scottish Highers (standard offer): ABBB is the minimum requirement from S5 to be reviewed for an S6 offer; Offers are not guaranteed to applicants who meet the minimum from S5; Offers will typically be made at AAAAB by end of S6. B at Advanced Higher is equivalent to A at Higher; plus Higher Biology or Higher Chemistry at A. Scottish Highers contextual (adjusted) offers (by end of S5 or S6): MD20: BBBB (also other target groups*); MD40: AABB (S5 minimum ABB required for consideration); plus Higher Biology or Higher Chemistry at A/B; Successful completion of Top-Up or one of our Summer Schools. English language (international applicants): IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with no sub-test under 6.0 (One Skill Retake accepted); TOEFL iBT 92 overall for tests from 21 January 2026 (minimum Reading 22, Listening 20, Speaking 23, Writing 21); PTE Academic 59 overall with 59 in all sub-tests; other tests listed by the University are also accepted. Application deadlines: 13 January for UK applicants and 30 June for international applicants (UCAS or Common Application).

Requirements published at program group level.

Domestic applicants: GBP 9,790 a year (2026/27). Standard annual tuition fee for students from England, Wales and Northern Ireland (2027/28 rate not yet confirmed). Source

International applicants: GBP 33,708 a year (2027/28). Expected rate for EU and international students, band: Science, Engineering, Nursing and College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences programmes. Tuition only. Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 5 years

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