How much laboratory work is there in a Life Sciences degree?
Laboratory work is generally a regular part of a life sciences bachelor’s degree, alongside lectures. Introductory courses may include biology, chemistry, and physics experiments, while later courses may involve practical work in areas such as molecular biology, cell biology, physiology, and microbiology. Some programs also include fieldwork or data analysis. The amount varies by year and course, and preparation, reports, and follow-up work can require substantial additional time.
Key points
- Practical work often progresses from basic experiments in earlier years to more specialized work in later years.
- Laboratory learning may include safety training, preparation, cleanup, and writing reports, not only time at the bench.
- Depending on the course, fieldwork or computer-based data analysis may also be included.
Things to check
- The number and frequency of practical modules, and whether they are compulsory or elective, vary by university, faculty, and course; check the intended program’s curriculum and module descriptions.