Human Biosciences BSc (Hons) with foundation year

Undergraduate

Students wearing white coats and working in the SuperLab.

Explore the complexities of human health and disease through genomics, neurophysiology and microbiology. Gain hands-on laboratory experience and prepare for a range of careers in the bioscience and healthcare sectors.

Course option

Degree with foundation year

Year of entry

2025-26 2026-27

Location

CU Coventry (Coventry) and
Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

4 years full-time
5 years sandwich

UCAS codes

C1DF

Start date

September 2026
November 2026
January 2027
March 2027
May 2027
July 2027

How to apply

Your UCAS Guide

Download a prospectus

Course overview

Our degree with foundation year could be the stepping stone you need to achieve your goals. The foundation year aims to prepare you for degree-level study and is a great way to build the confidence, skills and knowledge needed to succeed on your degree course.

The foundation year course offers an introduction to your chosen subject and helps you develop the necessary skills for degree-level study. In addition, you will also explore key skills such as research methods, scientific fundamentals and promotion techniques.

Foundation year

Supports you to gain the academic skills required for degree-level study.
Provides a grounding in key areas of biosciences.

Degree

This course explores human health and disease, from molecules to global health trends and examines how the human body responds to an ever-changing environment.

Tackle global health challenges: explore the science behind human health and disease, from molecules to populations, and develop the skills to address pressing global health issues.
Hands-on, real-world experience: master advanced lab techniques in our biosciences super-lab, model human physiology in sophisticated simulation spaces, and engage with real-world research and case studies⁴.
Prepare for a career in bioscience: gain the scientific knowledge, critical thinking skills and practical experience valued by employers to prepare for career paths in research, healthcare and industry.

Rated Gold Overall

Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023

5 QS Stars for Teaching and Facilities

QS Stars University Ratings

Top 5 Student City in England (Coventry)

QS Best Student Cities Index 2026

Why you should study this course

Foundation year

Supports you to gain the academic skills required for degree-level study.
Provides a grounding in key areas of biosciences.

Degree

Practical, contemporary facilities:⁴ the Super-Lab provides access to advanced equipment, allowing you to master contemporary techniques like qPCR, cell culture and flow cytometry.
Student-centred active learning: this course will be delivered through a blend of hands-on laboratory-based sessions, interactive lectures and discursive workshops. Apply your knowledge and skills to an independent research project in the final year.
Common first year: collaborate and work alongside students doing similar courses to expand your knowledge and exposure to other subject areas and professions.
Cutting-edge science: explore the science behind emerging threats like antimicrobial resistance, challenges of an ageing population and how genomic science is revolutionising our understanding of disease.
Placement opportunities:² apply for either a one-year professional training placement, or an international experience year to enhance learning and gain a competitive advantage in the workplace after graduation.

Our award-winning green Superlab

With space for over 200 students and packed full of industry-standard equipment, the Coventry University Superlab is an amazing place to learn, experiment and discover. Find out what we’re doing in our Superlab to make it greener and reduce our waste and carbon emissions.

What you'll study

This course has a common first year.

The common first year enables you to work alongside students doing similar courses to you, to widen your knowledge and exposure to other subject areas and professions. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with other students, so you can share your insights and experience which will help you to develop and learn.

If you discover an interest in a specific subject you have studied, upon successful completion of your first year, you could swap degrees with another course in your common first year (subject to meeting progression requirements).

Common first year courses

Biomedical Science BSc (Hons)
Biotechnology BSc (Hons)
Human Biosciences BSc (Hons)
Pharmacology BSc (Hons)

In the first year, the curriculum is shared across related courses allowing you to gain a broad grounding in the discipline before going on, in the second and third years, to specialist modules in your chosen field.

Modules

Introduction to Biomolecules and Biochemistry - 30 credits

Learn about the structures of proteins, carbohydrates and lipids, linking them to function and roles within biological systems. Examine enzymes, metabolic pathways and the energy used to drive these processes, while also considering the role of computational biology in visualising and understanding biological activities. Analysis methods, including spectrophotometry and chromatographic separation techniques, will be considered in both theory and practice.

Gain a sound appreciation of good laboratory practice, including proper record keeping, following quality standards and conducting key lab procedures and calculations. Learn to use modern digital tools to analyse and present data clearly, along with how to write standard laboratory reports.

Compulsory

Cells to Systems – 30 credits

Investigate the physiology of the human body, beginning with cellular organisation and signalling, all the way through to organ systems, their control and pathophysiology. Learn the process of human embryonic development to understand how distinct physiological systems develop.

Build your knowledge of how the main systems in the human body are developed, structured and organised, such as the nervous, muscular, skeletal, hormonal, heart, lung, reproductive, digestive and kidney systems. Learn how these systems work together to keep the body in balance (homeostasis). This module also covers how cells interact and communicate through cell signalling. You will be introduced to key concepts in how drugs work in the body (pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics), as well as how new medicines are developed.

Compulsory

Microbiology and Immunology – 30 credits

Learn about the different types of microorganisms with a detailed focus on bacteria and viruses. The structure, growth characteristics, laboratory cultivation and enumeration of bacteria and viruses will be considered. Explore the role of microorganisms in both human health and disease, as well as control strategies for microorganisms, including sterilisation, disinfection, antimicrobial agents and vaccines. This module will also introduce how mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance develop and work.

Learn how the body defends itself against infections through both the innate and adaptive immune response. Understand how lymphocytes develop and how the immune system tells the difference between the body’s own cells and foreign cells and molecules, including how it responds to tissue transplants.

Compulsory

Genetics and Molecular Biology – 30 credits

Learn the principles of inheritance, human genetics, population genetics and evolution. You will be introduced to the discovery and structure of DNA and study how traits are passed down, including human blood groups and mitochondrial inheritance.

Discover how DNA is used to make RNA and proteins (transcription and translation) and learn how to analyse genetic sequences using bioinformatics tools and analytical software. Explore the ethical issues around access to genetic data and how historical events and research projects have shaped the field.

Compulsory

Modules

The Gut Brain Axis: Microbes, Mood and Mind – 30 credits

Explore the intricate workings of the gastrointestinal system, highlighting its role not just in digestion but also as a crucial communication hub influencing overall human health and wellbeing. You will delve into the anatomy and physiology of the digestive system, examining its complex neural control and regulation.

A significant focus will be placed on the gut microbiota, exploring its composition, functions and profound influence on the brain, behaviour and various physiological processes. The module will investigate the gut-brain axis, examining the bidirectional communication pathways between the gut and the central nervous system.

This module will also explore how imbalances in the gut microbiota (dysbiosis) can contribute to a range of health issues, including stress, anxiety, depression, and other systemic conditions, as well as the causes of dysbiosis, including the overuse of antibiotics, and critically analyse the portrayal of gut health and related topics in the media.

Compulsory

Human Genetic Diversity – 30 credits

Human genetic variation explains much of our diversity, from looks to ancestry to disease risks. Society invests heavily in this research because it could greatly improve health.

This module covers genetic diversity, how we study it, the tech and databases used, and its impact on health. It also addresses challenges in making healthcare and research inclusive, ensuring new methods are effective and accessible to all.

Understanding genetic variation helps us learn about disease causes. It’s now clear that genetics affects all areas of healthcare, from prevention to treatment. Topics include how genes are expressed, DNA modifications and their effects on traits. Study methods for analysing genetic variation, epigenetics and disease causes. Ethical issues in genetic research and the use of model organisms will also be discussed.

Compulsory

Neurophysiology: Development and Disorders – 30 credits

Mental disorders have significant impacts on health, plus social and economic consequences worldwide. This module introduces you to the applied physiology of the brain and nervous system. You will explore the physiological disruption of normal processes of neurotransmission, resulting in disorders of movement, memory, behaviour, anxiety and mood. Unravelling the mechanisms of neural ageing, this module investigates the intricate neurophysiological processes that underlie ageing in the nervous system. You will explore age-related alterations in neuroanatomy, synaptic communication, neurotransmitter systems and neural plasticity, examining how these changes affect brain function and behaviour. This module also investigates the neurophysiological basis of age-related neurological and behavioural disorders, providing a foundation for understanding the challenges of healthy brain ageing.

Compulsory

Human Physiology and Modern Living – 30 credits

In this module, you’ll explore how your lifestyle choices affect your health and how your body works to stay in balance. You’ll look at how major systems in your body—like the brain, heart, lungs, kidneys, digestive system and hormones—work together to keep you healthy. You’ll learn how metabolism is controlled, what affects your appetite and how diet and exercise influence your wellbeing.

Examine how modern life and living in cities can affect your health, both positively and negatively. This includes looking at health during different stages of life and how being inactive can impact your body. You should discover how your internal body clock affects your behaviour and health and learn about what causes cancer, including the roles of genes, environment and lifestyle.

Compulsory

There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement² can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur between your second and final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

Modules

UK Work Placement– 0 credits

This module² provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

International Study/Work Placement – 0 credits

This module² provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

Modules

Personalised Genomics: Disease, Ageing and Therapy – 30 credits

Unlock the secrets of the genome and its profound impact on disease and ageing. Explore the benefits of personalised medicine, including pharmacogenomics and gene editing, and critically evaluate the ethical challenges of extending the human lifespan. This module aims to equip you with the knowledge and skills to navigate the forefront of genomic innovation in healthcare and beyond.

Compulsory

Non-Communicable Disease – 30 credits

From cellular metabolism to systemic disease, this module explores the impact of non-communicable diseases across the human lifespan. Examine the role of lifestyle, genetics, and ageing in the development of chronic conditions, including cancer. Discover how personalised medicine and lifestyle interventions can mitigate disease risk and improve quality of life.

Compulsory

Microbial Threats to Global Health – 30 credits

Explore how infectious diseases affect people across the world and how microbes interact with human populations. Learn about tropical diseases, how new infections emerge and why understanding patterns of disease through epidemiology is essential for improving global health. You’ll also look at how ageing affects the immune system and why antibiotic resistance is a growing concern.

You’ll connect these topics to global sustainability goals, examining how disease slows progress and how climate change and inequality make things worse. You should also consider the role of international teamwork and innovation in finding solutions. This module aims to help you understand the role of microbiology in tackling global health challenges and building a fairer, healthier future.

Compulsory

Research Project – 30 credits

This capstone module provides you with the opportunity to undertake an independent research project within your discipline/area of interest. You will engage in all stages of the research process, from project design and ethical approval to data collection, analysis and presentation. This module fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and advanced scientific communication skills, culminating in a conference-style poster presentation and defence of findings.

Optional

The foundation year offers an introduction to your chosen subject and supports you to develop the skills required for degree-level study.

Modules

Introduction to Health and Disease - 30 credits

This module introduces how ill health and diseases develop and their effects on cellular systems, organs, organ systems and homeostatic control mechanisms at a chemical/molecular level.

As well as exploring the relationship between pathophysiological changes to the structure and function of body systems and the most common causes of morbidity, mortality and sickness absence, you will also consider the inter-relationships between specific health issues and how they impact on homeostatic control, and therefore cause, key signs and symptoms.

We will also cover epidemiology, risk factors and preventative strategies. Emphasis is placed on understanding the key pathophysiological changes that accompany a particular health issue or disease, and on the physiological and biochemical basis of current and possible future therapies.

Compulsory

Foundation of Anatomy and Physiology - 30 credits

Here, we focus on physiological systems in the human body and how these systems interact to create a steady state (homeostasis). An introduction into the basic anatomical structures of the main biological systems in the human body is explored, while observing the function and purpose of these systems and how they help to regulate homeostasis.

Compulsory

Introduction to Cell Biology - 30 credits

This module is designed to provide you with the cell biology knowledge and skills required for a successful transition to the first year of study in bioscience disciplines. The material covered is at a level corresponding to pre-university qualifications such as A levels in the UK. The module provides a foundation of knowledge in cell biology and there is a strong emphasis on the application of the subject in bioscience contexts.

You will examine the facts, principles and concepts of cell biology such as the key molecular components of cells and organelles, as well as their function, and genetics. You will progress to developing the skills required to use this knowledge and will also learn to understand scientific methods, advances in technology relevant to cell biology and their effects on society.

You will also bring together knowledge and understanding of how different areas of cell biology relate to each other and other areas of bioscience.

Compulsory

Foundation of Chemistry - 30 credits

'Foundation of Chemistry' aims to equip you with the knowledge and skills of chemistry to progress to degree-level study. The material corresponds to A level qualifications in the UK.

The module provides a foundation of knowledge and understanding of the main branches of chemistry. You will be introduced to the major aspects of chemical terminology, as well as a range of organic and inorganic materials, and physical chemistry. You should also develop an understanding of scientific methods, and the link between theory and practical experiments, as there is a strong emphasis on the practical application of the subject, in the context of biosciences.

You will bring together knowledge of how different areas of chemistry relate to each other and other areas of bioscience, and the use of chemistry in society.

Compulsory

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

How you'll learn

Throughout your studies, you will have the opportunity to develop a good knowledge of a range of disciplines and how they apply to human health and disease, including both theory and lab-based classes.

The foundation year is focused on applied learning through a blend of lectures, tutorials and online learning. There are no end-of-year exams. Instead, learning is assessed through coursework and phase tests, which are more reflective of a working environment.

The learning outcomes of modules, assignments and projects will be clearly stated. Your work will be marked according to how well you achieve these learning outcomes and your final feedback will refer to each outcome, as well as providing an overall percentage grade.

Teaching contact hours

You can expect up 20 hours of learning activities per week, made up of face-to-face teaching, individual and group tutorials, online classes and independent learning.

Additionally, you will be expected to undertake significant self-directed study of approximately 30 hours each week, depending on the demands of individual modules.

The contact hours may be made up of a combination of face-to-face teaching, individual and group tutorials, and online classes and tutorials.

As an innovative and enterprising institution, the University may seek to utilise emerging technologies within the student experience. For all courses (whether on-campus, blended, or distance learning), the University may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via online technologies and methods.

Since COVID-19, we have delivered our courses in a variety of forms, in line with public authority guidance, decisions or orders, and we will continue to adapt our delivery as appropriate. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.

Assessment

The foundation year will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module and may include:

phase tests
essays
group work
presentations
reports
projects
coursework
exams
individual assignments.

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

You will have the opportunity to undertake challenging lab and non-lab-based independent research projects, dealing with important life science research questions, which in the past have tackled, for example, the antimicrobial activity of essential oils, cinnamon and ginger against drug-resistant clinical pathogens or the effect of sleep deprivation on physiological and mental health in healthy young adults.

Teaching and learning methods may include:

hands-on laboratory-based sessions
interactive lectures
interactive formats such as quizzes
discussions
presentations
case studies
self-guided and directed study.

Teaching contact hours

As a full-time undergraduate student, you will study modules totalling 120 credits each academic year. You will normally study one 30-credit module at a time. A typical 30-credit module requires a total of 300 hours of study made up of teaching contact hours, guided and independent study.

Teaching hours

Teaching hours may vary depending on your year of study and selected modules. During your first year, you can expect 12-15 teaching hours each week. You will also have the option to attend additional sessions, including time with a progress coach or to meet with staff for advice and feedback. As you progress through your studies, teaching hours may reduce.

Guided and independent study

Throughout your studies, you will be expected to spend time in guided and independent study to make up the required study hours per module. You’ll be digging deeper into topics, review what you’ve learned and complete assignments. This can be completed around your personal commitments. As you progress through your studies, you’ll spend more time in independent study.

Online learning

As an innovative university, we use different teaching methods including online tools and emerging technologies. So, some of your teaching hours and assessments may be delivered online.

Assessment

Assessment methods align to transferable industry skills, providing you with practical, real-world skills designed to enhance your professional readiness and career prospects.

Assessment methods may include:

online tests
essays and critical reviews
pitches
case studies
proposals
portfolios
group work for presentations, lab projects and reports
individual presentations
laboratory reports
lab skill competency
posters and other information resources (e.g. videos, websites, briefing papers)
independent research project.

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

International experience opportunities

By its very nature, the course adopts an international perspective as science knows no borders. We also typically attract students from many different countries providing a varied, multicultural and fulfilling environment in which to learn. We encourage students to mix on group work and projects.

The placement/study abroad option allows a year’s work placement or study, which can be taken abroad². Some former students have studied at the University of Leiden in Holland, for example.

Please note that all international experience opportunities may be subject to additional costs, competitive application, availability, and meeting applicable visa and travel requirements are therefore not guaranteed².

Entry requirements

Typical entry requirements:

64 UCAS tariff points. All foundation courses require GCSE maths and English at grade 4 / C or Functional Skills Level 2, or other equivalent Level 2 awards, and at least one A2 level or a BTEC equivalent qualification. For T levels: overall grade of Pass (D or E on the Core) in the T level qualification in any subject.

Other qualifications and experience

Our students come from a variety of backgrounds, each with a unique story. We recognise a breadth of qualifications. If your qualifications differ from the above, contact our Admissions Team who will be happy to discuss your qualifications and routes into your chosen course.

Contextual/Fair Access Offers

If you meet the criteria for our Fair Access Offer, you could automatically receive a contextual offer which is 16 UCAS points lower than our standard entry requirements. View the criteria for our Fair Access Offer.

Got higher grades? Have you considered direct entry to the degree without foundation year?

Fees and funding

Foundation year

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man	£9,790	Not available
International/EU	Not currently available***	Not available

Degree

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man	£9,790 per year	Not available
International/EU	Not currently available***	Not available

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement² or study abroad year, you will need to pay a tuition fee³ to cover your academic support throughout your placement year. Students commencing their professional placement in the academic year 2028/29 will pay £1,575 if they are paying UK fees, or £1,900 if they are paying international fees.

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our undergraduate finance page and see the university’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permits an increase in tuition fees, the university may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement, the University will charge the tuition fees stated above for those on a placement during Academic Year 2028/29. The University will review professional placement tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study, but such that it will be no more than 5% above inflation.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them. Find out what's included in your tuition costs.

Applies to degree only:

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

Any optional overseas ﬁeld trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad).

Foundation year funding

In order to receive funding for degree with foundation year courses, you will need to complete a four-year degree programme which includes the integrated foundation year, otherwise you may be responsible for your foundation year fees. For further information, please refer to the 'Tuition Fee Loan' details in the 'Funding your undergraduate course' section of our 'Fees and finance' page.

*Irish student fees

The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.

**This course with foundation year is not currently available to international students. If you do not meet the entry requirements to directly join year 1 of the degree, please take a look at our International Pathway courses for additional options.

How do you know if you need to pay UK or international tuition fees?

We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

Our foundation years are taught at CU Coventry’s Mile Lane building, a short walk from the city centre. You’re part of the university from day one, so during your foundation year you’ll have access to the wider facilities at Coventry University. Once you successfully complete your foundation year, you'll transfer over to studying your chosen degree at Coventry University, where you'll be taught on campus in the relevant academic buildings.

Located on our Mile Lane campus, you will have access to our Library and Learning Services (LLS), fully equipped seminar rooms and IT suites⁴. You can also take advantage of reading rights in Coventry University’s Lanchester Library, make use of sport centre facilities and receive full membership to Your Students' Union.

Two students walking outside with the CU Coventry building behind them.

Mile Lane

The campus is home to an on-site library with bookable one-to-one academic writing service and library support sessions, fully equipped seminar rooms, open-access study areas, a café and an IT suite. Our labs contain industry-standard equipment so that you learn using the same equipment as many industry professionals.

The Hub

At The Hub you'll find the Health and Wellbeing Centre, the Students’ Union and Square One (which provides entertainment from quiz nights to live music), the Spirituality and Faith Centre, Tank Studio, Careers Office and a fantastic food court.

Lanchester Library

Coventry University’s Lanchester Library is usually open 364 days a year, and has 1,400 study spaces, including group and silent areas. It also currently offers more than 550 computers and an additional 120 free-to-loan laptops.

Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and/or may have reduced availability or restrictions where the university is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders.

The degree will be predominantly taught in the multi-million-pound Alison Gingell Building on the Coventry University main campus. It is home to microbiology, cell culture, molecular biology/genetics, biochemistry and forensic science laboratories⁴, allowing you to work in a professional environment from day one.

Alison Gingell Building

The Alison Gingell Building is home to microbiology, cell culture, molecular biology/genetics, biochemistry and forensic science laboratories, allowing you to work in a replicated professional environment from day one.

Laboratory with people wearing white coats taking samples

SuperLab

Our SuperLab has facilities for cell culture and equipment for microscopy, DNA, RNA and protein analysis, and forensic testing.

Students using physiology testing equipment

Physiology suite

Separate physiology and health laboratory facilities enable the measurement of physiological parameters such as heart rate, blood pressure, lung function test and neuromuscular functioning.

Careers and opportunities

This dynamic field equips you with a unique blend of scientific knowledge, critical thinking skills, and practical experience that are highly valued in today's competitive job market. 

You could embark on a rewarding career in the thriving bioscience industry, contributing to cutting-edge research and development at leading pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, or medical research institutions. Alternatively, you could pursue a career in healthcare, working in hospitals, clinics, or public health organisations, making a direct impact on patient care.

Beyond traditional scientific roles, your strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills should also equip you for successful careers in areas such as data science and analytics, project management, and science communication and education. 

Where our graduates work

Previous graduates have gone on to careers in conducting clinical trials for drug companies, as research assistants in laboratories in universities and various roles within industry, such as marketing assistants and medical and scientific representatives for companies. Others have used their qualifications to progress into teaching careers, as well as postgraduate study to obtain MSc, MPhil and PhD qualifications.
Our graduates have gone on to work for companies including:

Binding Site
Rosalind Franklin Laboratory
SciBite, Pharmaron
Weetabix
Campden BRI
GSK
Prime Global
AS&K communications
Thermo Fisher Scientific.

The graduate destinations listed above illustrate potential career paths. You may need to gain additional qualifications or practical experience, pass professional examinations, complete training, cover associated costs and meet specific visa or immigration requirements to secure employment in these fields.

Further study

The course is an excellent foundation for further postgraduate studies leading to an MSc or PhD. We run a range of related taught MSc courses that allow our graduates to specialise in the area that they have a passion for and would like to pursue a career in.

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How to apply

BSc (Hons) with foundation year

Apply via UCAS

C85

Institution code

View our courses on UCAS

Visit UCAS

This course with foundation year is not available to international students.

UK students

Full-time students can apply for this course through UCAS. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

How to apply

Apply via UCAS

If this course has a part-time option you will need to apply directly to the university.

Apply via the portal

If you'd like further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

+44 (0)24 7765 2222

ukadmissions@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form

Disclaimers

Study location

The Foundation Year study route will be delivered by CU, part of the Coventry University Group, for and on behalf of Coventry University.

If you choose to study at CU Coventry for your Foundation Year, then your learning will be based at CU Coventry, Mile Lane, Coventry. Subject to meeting progression requirements you will then transition to the relevant Coventry University subject building for your progression degree.

¹Accreditations

The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.

²UK and international opportunities

Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or international opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be unpaid and/or subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel, public authority guidance, decisions or orders and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand any visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

³Tuition fees

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

For international students, we may increase fees each year, but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

⁴Facilities

Student Contract

By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. The current 2025/2026 contract applies to students starting between September 2025 and July 2026. Students starting between September 2026 and July 2027 will be covered by the 2026/2027 Student Contract. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.

Your next steps

Student life

Accommodation

Fees and funding

Human Biosciences BSc (Hons) with foundation year

Course features

Course option

Year of entry

Location

Study mode

Duration

UCAS codes

Start date

Course overview

Foundation year

Degree

Rated Gold Overall

5 QS Stars for Teaching and Facilities

Top 5 Student City in England (Coventry)

Why you should study this course

Foundation year

Degree

Our award-winning green Superlab

What you'll study

Modules

Modules

Modules

Modules

Modules

How you'll learn

Teaching contact hours

Assessment

Teaching contact hours

Teaching hours

Guided and independent study

Online learning

Assessment

International experience opportunities

Entry requirements

Other qualifications and experience

Contextual/Fair Access Offers

Fees and funding

Foundation year

Degree

Foundation year funding

*Irish student fees

**This course with foundation year is not currently available to international students. If you do not meet the entry requirements to directly join year 1 of the degree, please take a look at our International Pathway courses for additional options.

Facilities

Mile Lane

The Hub

Lanchester Library

Alison Gingell Building

SuperLab

Physiology suite

Careers and opportunities

Where our graduates work

Further study

Discover Phoenix+

How to apply

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