Human Biology

Human biology is the science of the human body and how it works, examined through anatomy, physiology, genetics, cell biology, and evolutionary biology. It asks how our species evolved, how the body develops and changes across the lifespan, how our systems respond to stressors from disease, exercise, and environment, and how our biology intersects with the cultural practices that shape health and wellbeing. It is a discipline that provides a rigorous scientific foundation for careers in healthcare, research, sport science, and public health.

At the University of Derby, this programme aims to be the ideal starting point for a scientific career focused on improving people's health and wellbeing. It includes a foundation year for students who benefit from an additional year of academic preparation before degree-level study, and extends to three years of main degree study, making four years full-time in total. The programme also includes a sandwich placement year, a year abroad, and a work placement, giving you a rich combination of professional and international experience alongside your academic training.

You will study human physiology, anatomy, genetics, biochemistry, and research methods, developing both theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory skills.

Graduates of human biology degrees pursue careers in healthcare, pharmaceutical and biotech companies, public health, clinical research, sport science, and science education. The breadth of biological understanding the degree develops also opens doors in medical writing, health promotion, regulatory science, and biotechnology. Many graduates go on to postgraduate study in physiology, medicine, biomedical science, or a related discipline where the solid biological foundation of the degree provides the preparation for more specialised study.