Biology
MBiol & BA Hons Biology
Image of microtubule arrays by N. Irani, Dept. Plant Sciences.
Average intake at Wadham: 6
Biology at Oxford involves a lecture and practical course organised by the Departments of Plant Sciences and Zoology, which are a short walk from Wadham, plus tutorial work arranged by the College.
MBiol (4 year) or BA Hons (3 year) in Biology
The course combines traditional topics, such as plant and animal evolution and systematics, with modern developments and techniques in all spheres of biology from the molecular to the organismal and ecological.
Students can choose to leave after three years and graduate with a BA, or they can continue to a fourth year and graduate with an MBiol. Progression to the MBiol is contingent on satisfactory academic performance in the first three years.
Biology at Wadham
In addition to the lecture and practical courses organised by the Departments of Zoology and Plant Sciences, students generally receive one tutorial per week in their first year, normally in groups of two or three. Thereafter they have a variety of weekly assignments, including at least one tutorial or seminar class.
The Biology tutors also arrange research seminars, presentations, and other activities that go beyond the confines of the degree course and introduce students to the research activities of Oxford biologists.
Wadham encourages students to submit applications for funding of vacation projects that benefit either their studies or some other aspect of their personal development.
Tutors
A Student's Perspective
From a young age I was determined to complete a biology degree at university – it is, and has always been, my passion. It is a subject which I feel is of huge significance in understanding the environment around us, what led to the world being like it is now, and how, in the future, we will still be able to provide for the population without catastrophic loss of biodiversity. As you may be aware through the prospectus, biology at Oxford is a relatively broad course, allowing for specialisation in the second and third years. The course is largely based on lectures and lab sessions, with an hour-long tutorial at least once per week (all of which totals about 20 hours of teaching time a week).
I really enjoy studying a broad range of biological disciplines, and feel that this offers me a great grounding for further study in a more specialised area, both in this degree and beyond. Furthermore, studying at Oxford means that I have the great privilege of being taught by some of the world’s leading biologists.
Wadham offers a relaxed environment in which I can pursue my studies. Being surrounded by like-minded people creates a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. This is further enhanced by Wadham’s liberal attitudes and principles. The biology tutors at Wadham also take a keen interest in their students work and welfare.