Postgraduate study

Our postgraduate taught programmes combine cutting-edge theory with the practical, applied skills students need to become effective researchers or industry specialists. The expertise from our staff spans several relevant areas and teaching draws directly from our research, meaning students will be working with academics who are leading in their field.

Our postgraduate research degrees cover the whole spectrum of modern biological disciplines, from field ecology to protein structure, and have an integrated approach to biology, with no barriers between disciplines.

All our postgraduate training is research-oriented, and we have excellent facilities with easy access to the latest equipment and expert advice in our Technology Facility. The Facility includes imaging and cytometry; genomics and bioinformatics; metabolomics and proteomics; protein production; molecular interactions.

All students benefit from a balanced programme of training in broader research-related skills that enhance their career prospects.

Taught degrees

MSc Biotechnology

MSc Biomedical Sciences

MSc Bioinformatics

Research degrees

MSc by research

The MSc by research is a one-year full-time masters degree programme.

You'll advance your knowledge and understanding of a particular aspect of your field of study, conducting a research project in the lab of a supervisor to produce a research thesis.

The degree can start at any point in the year, and you'll apply to a specific supervisor who is expert in your research area of interest.

Self-funded research opportunities

Doctoral Training Programmes

Doctoral Training Programmes (DTPs) are fully-funded PhD programmes that include training and career development opportunities.

White Rose Mechanistic Biology DTP (BBSRC)

Adapting to the Challenges of a Changing Environment DTP (NERC)

PhD

PhD study lasts three to four years full-time.

Assessment for a PhD is similar to the MPhil, but your thesis must contain an original element that makes a publishable contribution to knowledge or understanding.

The degree can start at any point in the year, and you'll apply to a specific supervisor who is expert in your research area of interest. As well as the capacity for self-funded PhD projects, we have a range of studentships available that are fully-funded by UK Research Councils, charities or industry.

Fully-funded PhD studentships

Self-funded research opportunities

Find out more

Funding

Explore other available funding opportunities for postgraduate Biology study, both within the Department and further afield.

Postgraduate Student Community

Here in the Department, as well as across the University, we offer lots of exciting events and groups to get involved with. We're keen to support and listen to our students as well as celebrate their achievements. Examples include:

Student Reps' Coffee and Cake sessions

Postgraduate Student Voice Committee

Monthly Support Drop In Sessions

University of York Postgraduate Community

Virtual tour

Contact us

For enquiries please contact our Student Services Office:

Taught degrees
biol-admissions@york.ac.uk

Research degrees
biol-pg-admissions@york.ac.uk

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