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Finding the top universities for biology in the UK can be tricky, because there are so many options when it comes to studying biology. Fortunately, our sister site Complete University Guide breaks down their league tables into different categories that matter to you, and we’ve summarised their findings to give you the best universities for biology in the UK.
Best university for biological sciences in student satisfaction
Middlesex University
Middlesex University offers a high quality curriculum, and it's clear students are happy with the biological sciences courses, as it was voted top in the UK for student satisfaction 2024. Situated in North London, students are able to take advantage of everything the capital has to offer while benefitting from a quieter and slower paced living and studying environment.
Read what students think of biology at the Middlesex University.
Best university for biological sciences in research quality
University of Dundee
The University of Dundee officially opened in 1967, though its roots date back to the 1880s. The city is on Scotland’s east coast, surrounded by beautiful countryside and only an hour and a half north of Edinburgh. It has a large student population, and a reputation for being a very safe city. The city itself is compact, so students can benefit from the city’s walkability. The large student population means there’s a lively nightlife scene and lots of small businesses and independent restaurants and cafes to discover.
Read what students think of biological sciences at the University of Dundee.
Best university for biological sciences in graduate outcomes
University of Cambridge
Situated in the beautiful city of Cambridge, just an hour’s train ride from London, you’ll find the University of Cambridge. The university has buildings across the city centre, and you won’t be short of green space studying here. In the summer, many students make the most of the boat trips on offer, and throughout the year there’s plenty of cultural things to do. The city has a range of galleries, museums, cinemas and theatres to occupy you, and you also won’t be short of places to eat, drink or party.
Best university for biological sciences in England
University of Cambridge
Coming in top for not only graduate outcomes, but also the top university overall in England for biological sciences. Congratulations to Cambridge!
Best university for biological sciences in Scotland
The University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh has a rich history and offers its students loads of benefits, thanks in part to it being the 6th oldest uni in the UK. Not only is it located in one of the UK’s most desirable cities to live in, but the city also has loads to offer students, from history to parks to bars and clubs, and the university is well-known for its high-quality research. Edinburgh is also famous for its local landmarks, architecture and shopping, so perfect for history buffs or fashion fans. The uni also has several famous alumni including Alexander Graham Bell, JM Barrie and Charles Darwin.
Best university for biological sciences in Wales
Cardiff University
Cardiff University dates back to 1833 and today has a student body representing over 100 different countries. Situated in the heart of Wales’s capital city, students are well-located and within walking distance of a large variety of different amenities. Across the city, you’ll find lots of bars, pubs and clubs which contribute to the city’s student-friendly and lively nightlife scene. Cardiff is also well-known for its comedy clubs and also has theatres and music venues providing a range of live entertainment.
Read what students think of biological sciences at Cardiff University.
Best university for biological sciences in Northern Ireland
Queen's University Belfast
Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) is one of the top 25 universities in the UK according to Complete University Guide’s 2024 League Tables. Founded in 1845, QUB is internationally respected and centrally located in Belfast, Northern Ireland’s capital city. While you can easily explore Belfast on foot, there’s public transport available if you prefer buses and trains. If you want a dose of culture, you’ll find museums, art galleries, theatres and music venues around the city. Belfast also has a wide selection of restaurants, bars, cafes and pubs so you won’t be short of places to eat and drink either.
Best university for biological sciences overall
University of Cambridge
It’s no surprise that the University of Cambridge took the top spot given it’s already made two appearances on this list, but nevertheless, congratulations to the University of Cambridge for coming top in the UK for biological sciences.
