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Undergraduate Biology: Modules

N.B. All undergraduate admissions enquiries should go to admissions@st-andrews.ac.uk

This page lists Biology undergraduate degree modules.

About module codes:

the first number in a module code indicates the year in which it may be taken.
e.g.
BL1001 - first year
BL2102 - second year
BL3302 - junior honours year
BL4200 - senior honours year

Undergraduate Study

To view further details, please click on module titles. To reorder this list, please click column headings. (order by module code to view in year sequence)...

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title
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poster

handbook
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BL3321

Advanced Critical Analysis Reading Party

Dr Gerald Prescott

	Advanced Critical Analysis Reading Party
code:	BL3321
credits:	10
year:	Junior Honours
semester:	1
description:	An introductory residential module to Honours study for students studying Cell Biology, Neuroscience and Biology degrees held at the Burn between the resit diet and the start of semester 1. This module introduces students to the skill of critically analysing scientific literature and the methodology behind preparing research proposals. Students will work in groups to develop a grant proposal and present their ideas to a mock research grant panel. In response to detailed feedback students can improve their skills and finally submit an extended referees report on a real grant proposal.
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BL4286

	Advanced topics in Ecology and Evolution
code:	BL4286
credits:	15
year:	Senior Honours
semester:	2
description:	In this module, we will consider, from both molecular and whole organism approaches, a number of outstanding questions currently facing ecologists and evolutionary biologists today. These questions include why we get old and why we have sex, through to why the world is (mostly) green and how will life on earth come to an end. These questions will be relevant to both our understanding of the evolution and maintenance of the biosphere as we see it today, and also in terms of understanding humanity’s place in that biosphere. We will take Sherratt & Wilkinsons’s (2009) recent book Big Questions in Ecology and Evolution as our starting point, with student-led seminars bringing us classic and contemporary primary literature to address the topics in more detail. The result will be an exciting opportunity to get to grips with a number of big problems in ecology and evolution, from the perspective of the very latest research in those areas.
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	Animal Behaviour: a quantitative approach
code:	BL3319
credits:	20
year:	Junior Honours
semester:	2
description:	This module is designed to provide a broad and multifaceted perspective on animal behaviour, emphasising contemporary theoretical, mathematical and statistical approaches to the discipline. Nobel-Prize-winning ethologist, Niko Tinbergen, pointed out that to understand behaviour fully researchers had to answer four types of questions, about its causation, function, development and evolution. All four areas are covered in the course, which includes lectures on the genetic, neural, physiological and experiential (i.e. learning) influences on behaviour; behavioural development; foraging; sexual behaviour, sexual selection and mate choice; communication, cooperation and culture. The course contains extensive material of a formal theoretical nature, and emphasizes quantitative skills throughout. Students will be introduced to new mathematical and statistical approaches within the field.
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	Animal communication and cognition
code:	BL4281
credits:	15
year:	Senior Honours
semester:	1
description:	Learning to produce sounds is a particularly interesting subject as far as humans are concerned because it is such a notable feature of our own species. Why do we show it, and how did it evolve? As there is little evidence of it in any other primates we need to look further afield for clues. It is found in several other mammalian orders and in three orders of birds, and the evidence for it and nature of it will be examined in these examples. We will discuss why selection may have favoured it in each case. We will also consider vocal learning in a broader sense, including its use in animals that do not themselves produce sounds.
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	Animal Plant Interactions
code:	BL3316
credits:	20
year:	Junior Honours
semester:	1
description:	This module concerns the coevolution of plants and animals, including the ecological, behavioural and physiological aspects of their interactions. Pollination biology and the constraints on participating plants and animals are dealt with in depth, including applied aspects of crop pollination, and this is followed by a review of seed dispersal. Then patterns of herbivory by insects, vertebrates and other animals are considered, illustrating the interactions of plant physical and chemical defences and herbivores reciprocal adaptations from feeding specializations and host plant selection through to detoxification systems and life history adaptations. Interactions with third parties are also explained, especially plant-fungus-insect systems. There is an introduction to other tritrophic interactions (whereby plants can recruit herbivores enemies as part of their defences, or recruit ants as biotic plant guards), to insects as plant pests, and to integrated and sustainable approaches to control measures and plant protection.
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	Antimicrobials – mode of action and resistance
code:	BL4211
credits:	15
year:	Senior Honours
semester:	1
description:	This module will commence by establishing the fundamental basis of antimicrobial efficacy in terms of selective toxicity, with a brief history of antimicrobials and factors that make the ideal antimicrobial. This will be followed by: i) study of the known inhibitory action of antibacterial and antifungal drugs at the molecular level, and ii) study of the molecular basis of microbial resistance to these drugs. Lastly, potential new sources of antimicrobials will be considered, particularly antimicrobial peptides and ‘natural’ antimicrobials.
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	Aquatic Ecology
code:	BL3308
credits:	20
year:	Junior Honours
semester:	1
description:	This module introduces the ecology of aquatic systems beginning with a description of the problems of life in a fluid medium. The module then considers the contrasting conditions that are inherent in freshwater, estuarine and marine systems. The influence of global climate variation and the close coupling between land and sea will be emphasised. Case studies will then be used to introduce the ecology of a variety of aquatic systems including tropical, temperate and polar systems.This module involves a residential field trip to Kindrogan field station in the Scottish Highlands.
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	Bacterial virulence factors
code:	BL4215
credits:	15
year:	Senior Honours
semester:	1
description:	In order to establish an infection in a host, pathogenic bacteria rely on mechanisms to adhere to host tissue, gain entry into cells, escape the hosts immune response and spread and survive within or on the host. These processes are mediated by bacterial virulence factors, i.e. proteins and other bacterial products that utilise and subvert diverse host cellular processes for the benefit of the pathogen. In this module students will explore how structural biology has led to significant breakthroughs in understanding the molecular bases of some important bacterial infections.
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	Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
code:	BL2104
credits:	30
year:	Second Year
semester:	2
description:	This module builds on BL1201 Molecular Biology. The module will further develop the understanding and application of techniques, skills and concepts, which are integral to the revolution that has occurred in the biological sciences in recent years. The module is essential underpinning for all branches of modern biology and biochemistry. The lectures include coursework on biological molecular architecture, cellular architecture, enzymes & metabolism, genomics and conclude with an introduction to the molecular basis of infection and immunity. The laboratory element will develop practical skills and the use of bioinformatics resources.
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	Bioenergetics
code:	BL3310
credits:	20
year:	Junior Honours
semester:	2
description:	The conversion of one form of energy into another by a biochemical process is at the centre of all life. This module studies the biological systems for conserving energy from food oxidation and light absorption (photosynthesis) and the conversion of the resulting redox energy into chemical energy in the pyrophosphate bonds of ATP. The module also considers electron transfer processes in biology and the energetics of trasport processes. Chemiosmotic theory and the principles are considered in detail as are the structure and function of electron and proton transfer systems of energy tranducing systems. Practical classes will introduce the student to the methods used in this field of study. The module will comprise twenty lectures, eight hours tutorials/seminars in total, and twelve hours per week in practical classes.
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	Bioinformatics for Biologists
code:	BL4273
credits:	15
year:	Senior Honours
semester:	1
description:	This module is about using computers to search and study protein and DNA sequences, and related data such as mRNA expression levels. Vast quantities of such data are publicly available, and, if viewed in the right way, can provide strong evidence concerning function, structure, and evolution of DNA, RNA, proteins and genes. Because of this, computational analysis has become a crucial component of modern biology, including biochemistry, molecular biology, ecology, evolutionary biology and biomedical research. With hundreds of genome sequences and vast quantities of expression data available, the approach has greater potential than ever before. This module will give an overview of the data, software and methods of analysis, and in-depth practical training in applying bioinformatics techniques to questions of biology and biomedical research. Case studies where researchers use genomes to ask questions about divergence, adaptation and speciation will be discussed. The emphasis of the module is not mathematical, but rather concerns data, the general features of methods, use of software, applications relevant to biology, and results. The module will involve use of computers and simple computer programming, for which training will be provided as part of the module.
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	Comparative Physiology
code:	BL2106
credits:	30
year:	Second Year
semester:	2
description:	This module covers the principles of physiological adaptation in a range of animals, including examples from all major taxa and from all habitats. Initial comparisons relating to scaling and design of animals will be followed by more specific units on: (A) Comparative principles of ionic and osmotic exchanges; water balance in aquatic and land animals, adaptations at skin, kidney, and respiratory surfaces. (B) Respiratory systems in water and on land, and associated circulatory mechanisms. (C) Principles of temperature balance; ectotherms and endotherms. (D) Feeding and digestive systems; food collection, ingestion, and absorption at different trophic levels; and waste disposal. (E) Sensory systems in different environments (especially visual, olfactory, auditory, and special senses). (F) Control systems using hormones and pheromones and (G) the immune system in a range of animals.
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	Earth System Science: Terrestrial Ecosystems and Environmental Change
code:	GG3096
credits:	15
year:	Junior Honours
semester:	2
description:	Terrestrial ecosystems play a central role in modulating the flow of energy and materials in the Earth system, regulating trace gas exchange with the atmosphere, the transfer of carbon and nutrients with rivers and oceans, and the natural attenuation of pollutants. Understanding how terrestrial ecosystems function is crucial to addressing problems such as climate change, stratospheric ozone loss, and environmental pollution. This module will develop principles of ecosystems ecology and biogeochemistry, focusing on major elemental cycles, soil processes, and human activity. In addition to students in Geography and Geosciences, this module also welcomes students from Sustainable Development, Biology and Chemistry.
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	Geomicrobiology - from gold mines to global warming: how microbes influence our planet
code:	BL4220
credits:	15
year:	Senior Honours
semester:	1
description:	Geomicrobiology explores the interactions between microbes and materials within inorganic environments and investigates the effects of microbial activity on these substances. Throughout the Earth's history, microbes have successfully colonised numerous and different inorganic environments, and in the process have changed the chemical nature of geological materials therein. The current interest in geomicrobiology has been reawakened by climate change and environmental issues. The module will commence by investigating very early Earth and its initial colonisers 3.7 BYA - the sulphatereducing and methane-producing anaerobic bacteria - and later development of the aerobic environment. Then issues concerning today's Earth and the consequences of geomicrobial cycling are investigated, as well tomorrow's Earth and the influence of microbial activity on global climate change. What are the future implications of geomicrobiological activity? Finally, hypotheses regarding the geomicrobiology of a variety of newly explored space environments are considered. Class Hour: To be arranged.
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	Biology and Behaviour of Social Insects
code:	BL4282
credits:	15
year:	Senior Honours
semester:	2
description:	This module will examine and compare the biology of the four main groups of social insects: termites, ants, wasps and bees. Sociality in other groups (aphids, beetles) will also be considered briefly. Topics will include the evolution of sociality, social organisation and social control systems, reproductive strategies, and diverse communication modes including pheromonal systems, acoustic systems, and ‘bee dances’. Aspects of foraging behaviour and learning abilities will also be considered, particularly for ants (leaf cutter ants, army ants, slave-making ants) and for bees both eusocial and semi-social. There will be strong evolutionary, ecological and behavioural themes, and relevance also to conservation issues.
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	Biology I
code:	BL1101
credits:	20
year:	First Year
semester:	1
description:	This module is an introduction to molecular and cellular biology. It covers cell diversity and the origins of life, cellular structures and fundamental processes. The central dogma of molecular biology is investigated through the examination of the structure and function of DNA, RNA and proteins, and how this knowledge led to modern developments in biotechnology. The final section of the module gives an introduction into molecular and population genetics with an emphasis on the process of evolution. Throughout the module the lecture material is complemented by extensive practical classes where biological laboratory techniques are taught an practiced through, for example, microscopy, DNA isolation, dissection and thin layer chromatography.
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	Biology II
code:	BL1102
credits:	20
year:	First Year
semester:	2
description:	This module provides an introduction to the diversity of life on Earth and will address key elements of organismal and ecological aspects of life. The module is divided into several sections beginning with the classification of life and an introduction to the kingdoms Monera, Fungi and Protista. Photosynthesis, respiration and the evolution and diversity of plants will be studied. Students will then look at the diversity of animals in the sea and the movement of some groups onto land. The module will also provide an introduction to animal behaviour and developmental biology, before finishing off by introducing ecology and the various factors promoting and threatening biodiversity. Throughout the module the lecture material is complemented by extensive practical classes introducing a variety of fieldwork and laboratory techniques.
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	Biology of Dinosaurs and Other Extinct Vertebrates
code:	Bl4278
credits:	15
year:	Senior Honours
semester:	1
description:	It seems natural to use our understanding of extant biology to make inferences about the past. This allows us to test ideas about evolution and biodiversity in a wider context. Additionally, “rewilding” is an active but controversial strand of conservation biology that suggests that where “keystone” species have gone extinct, we should introduce an analogous species. Vertebrates fossilise well, and so offer a good foundation of source material. They are generally large and complex organisms, and we particularly focus on the large representatives of each taxonomic group; this allows us to explore the physical constraints on the functioning of organisms.
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	Biology of Marine Organisms
code:	BL3318
credits:	20
year:	Junior Honours
semester:	2
description:	This module will include lectures on the range of microbial and metazoan organisms and ecological systems in the marine environment. The coverage will range from bacteria, to algae, invertebrates and vertebrates (fish, birds, reptiles and mammals). The biology of marine organisms is considered in the context of both adaptations at the level of the individual and its expression in terms of large-scale latitudinal and depth-related variations in productivity and food web structure. Examples from the poles to the tropics and from shallow water to the deep ocean will be included. Practicals will be field- and laboratory-based and will provide an experimental introduction to both ecological and physiological problems in marine biology.
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	Breeding Systems and Sexual Conflict
code:	BL4284
credits:	15
year:	Senior Honours
semester:	2
description:	Studies of mating systems in animals are primarily concerned with how animal societies are structured in relation to sexual behaviour. In plants, where many organisms do not have separate males and females, the term refers to the degree to which individuals are self-compatible or the amount of out-crossing that occurs. The effects of breeding system on sexual selection and sexual conflict, together with the costs of inbreeding and the evolution of mating systems, are central concerns of this module.
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	Cell Structure and Function
code:	BL2101
credits:	30
year:	Second Year
semester:	1
description:	This is an introductory module covering general aspects of animal cell structure and associated physiology. The module stars with a general overview of the regulation of the cell cycle, the roles of protein complexes essential to cell shape and adhesion and the homeostatic role of ion pumps, transporters and channels in the maintenance of solute compositions in both the intra- and extra-cellular fluid compartments. The module continues with detailed structure-function relationships within cells from three major tissues i) nerve cells and the mechanisms of generation and propagation of the action potential, ii) skeletal, cardiac and smooth muscle cells and mechanisms controlling contraction and finally iii) blood cells and O2 transport, immune response, coagulation and cell signaling pathways.
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	Chromosome replication and genome stability
code:	BL4223
credits:	15
year:	Senior Honours
semester:	1
description:	Highly-efficiently chromosomal DNA replication is essential for all forms of cellular life on Earth and requires the complex interplay of a large range of protein factors in a temporally- and spatiallycoordinated manner. In humans, defects in the replication process may lead to genetic disease or cancer. This module will summarise current knowledge of the enzymes and mechanisms of chromosomal DNA replication in bacterial, archaeal and eukaryotic cells with particular emphasis on exploring the diverse range of experimental systems and techniques used in the laboratory to probe the structure, function and regulation of the replication apparatus. Similarities and differences between cellular and viral DNA replication strategies will be explored and diverse aspects of the evolution of the replication machinery highlighted
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	Communication and teaching in science
code:	ID4001
credits:	15
year:	Senior Honours
semester:	1
description:	This module is based on the Undergraduate Ambassador Scheme launched in 2002. It provides final year students within the Faculty of Science with the opportunity to gain first hand experience of science education through a mentoring scheme with science teachers in local schools. Students will act initially as observers in the classroom and later as classroom assistants. With permission of the teacher-in-charge, students may also be given the opportunity to lead at least one lesson, or activity within a lesson, during their placement. This module will enable students to gain substantial experience of working in a challenging and unpredictable working environment, and of communicating scientific ideas at various different levels; and to gain a broad understanding of many of the key aspects of teaching science in schools. While of particular value to students aiming for a career in education, these core skills are equally important for any career that requires good communication. Entry to this module is by selection following application and interview during the preceding semester. Note: Students will not be allowed to sign up for this module until their application for a place has been accepted and they have been offered a place by the module organiser. See also here
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	Complex Systems in Animal Behaviour
code:	BL4285
credits:	15
year:	Senior Honours
semester:	2
description:	Behaving animals form complex systems, and can create complicated and beautiful phenomena, such as flocks of birds, termite nests, and patterns of army ant swarms. This course will look at research that examines animal behaviour from a complex systems perspective, where analyses range from captive housing of entire bird flocks, computer simulation, and use of robots to interact with the animals. Introductory lectures will be followed by seminar-style discussion of the primary literature, computer practicals, and hands-on practicals where students will identify complex systems in animal behaviour around St Andrews.
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School of Biology

Undergraduate Biology: Modules

About module codes:

Undergraduate Study

Advanced Critical Analysis Reading Party

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Advanced topics in Ecology and Evolution

Currently cited in:

Animal Behaviour: a quantitative approach

Currently cited in:

Animal communication and cognition

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Animal Plant Interactions

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Antimicrobials – mode of action and resistance

Currently cited in:

Aquatic Ecology

Currently cited in:

Bacterial virulence factors

Currently cited in:

Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Currently cited in:

Bioenergetics

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Bioinformatics for Biologists

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Biology and Behaviour of Social Insects

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Biology I

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Biology II

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Biology of Dinosaurs and Other Extinct Vertebrates

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Biology of Marine Organisms

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Breeding Systems and Sexual Conflict

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Cell Structure and Function

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Chromosome replication and genome stability

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Communication and teaching in science

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Comparative Physiology

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Complex Systems in Animal Behaviour

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Conservation and Management of Biodiversity

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Conservation field research methods: Estimating population size

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Developmental Biology

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Earth System Science: Terrestrial Ecosystems and Environmental Change

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Ecology & Evolution

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Ecosystems and Conservation

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Evolution

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Evolution and Human Behaviour

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Evolution in action

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Evolutionary Developmental Biology

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Experimental Research Project

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Field Course

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Fisheries Research

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Foraging in Marine Mammals

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Gene Regulation

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Geomicrobiology - from gold mines to global warming: how microbes influence our planet

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	Conservation and Management of Biodiversity
code:	BL4268
credits:	15
year:	Senior Honours
semester:	1
description:	This module will focus on the scientific problems associated with the conservation and sustainable use of animals and plants, and on the way in which scientific advice on these issues is provided. Initial lectures will cover sustainable development and the precautionary principle; the causes of extinction; the economics of conservation; management of exploitation; and estimating species richness. After this student-led seminars will cover a range of more specialist issues of current concern. Practical work on population viability analysis, classifying populations using the IUCN criteria, and species richness estimation may be included.
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	Conservation field research methods: Estimating population size
code:	BL4266
credits:	15
year:	Senior Honours
semester:	1
description:	The conservation of animal and plant populations relies initially on information of population sizes and trends. This information can only be collected by fieldwork. This module teaches the basic field techniques that underpin the monitoring of populations. Each week the theory behind a different technique is introduced, then the technique is practiced in the field, and finally data collected by the technique are analysed and discussed in a workshop at the end of the week, so that a full understanding of a technique and its proper application is gained. The module ends with students carrying out a project applying and integrating the techniques they have learnt.
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	Developmental Biology
code:	BL3315
credits:	20
year:	Junior Honours
semester:	2
description:	This module considers the enigma of development, how complexity arises from apparent simplicity when an adult develops from an egg. It examines development from fertilisation to maturity in a range of organisms, but concentrates on higher vertebrates including man, and the fruitfly Drosophila. Early-acting mechanisms for generating differences between initially identical cell populations to produce patterning and structure in embryos will be considered. The development of the nervous system will be examined in depth. Drosophila embryonic development and the hormonal control of metamorphosis in flies and amphibians will also be studied.
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	Ecology & Evolution
code:	BL2105
credits:	30
year:	Second Year
semester:	2
description:	Ecology and Evolution are central to our understanding of life on Earth and the relationships between all organisms and their biotic and abiotic environment. The principles of Ecology and Evolution have determined the variety and distribution of all organisms and will determine their future responses to global change. This module will introduce students to principles and patterns of Ecology, ranging from the global (for example, patterns of energy flow through ecosystems and the biogeography of organisms and communities) to the individual (competition between and within species) and the history and processes of Evolutionary Biology (Darwin, natural selection, population genetics, the evolution of sex and speciation).
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	Ecosystems and Conservation
code:	BL3309
credits:	20
year:	Junior Honours
semester:	2
description:	This module will examine how ecosystems function and how they provide services for humans: information which is essential for ecologists, conservationists and land managers. The module will consider examples of natural systems being altered by man to demonstrate how ecosystems function and the consequences of anthropogenic change. Disturbance and regulation in ecosystems, atmospheric and hydrological regulation, (including the green house effect and acidification), soil ecology, conservation and management of natural resources, agricultural and grazed ecosystems (including GMOs), urban ecosystems and aspects of sustainable development will also be discussed.
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	Evolution
code:	BL3307
credits:	20
year:	Junior Honours
semester:	1
description:	Topics in this module will include: molecular variation and evolution, including phylogeny reconstruction; the evolution and maintenance of sex; the genetics of continuous traits, and the relative importance of continuous and discontinuous variation in evolution; evolution of population genetic structure; the genetics of speciation, covering the evolution of pre- and post- zygotic isolation, reproductive displacement and reinforcement, and parapatric, sympatric and island speciation. Practicals will involve computer simulations to investigate a range of evolutionary phenomena, plus use of molecular markers to examine population structure and speciation.
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	Evolution and Human Behaviour
code:	BL4280
credits:	15
year:	Senior Honours
semester:	1
description:	Evolutionary biologists, anthropologists and psychologists have taken evolutionary principles and used them to explain a range of human characteristics, such as homicide, religion and sex differences in behaviour. Other researchers are sceptical of these interpretations, and critical of the methods. Moreover, researchers disagree as to the best ways to use evolution to explore humanity, and a number of schools of thought have emerged. This module will introduce and critically evaluate the main evolutionary approaches currently being used, including socio-biology, evolutionary psychology, behavioural ecology and gene-culture co-evolution.
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	Evolution in action
code:	BL4275
credits:	15
year:	Senior Honours
semester:	1
description:	This module will focus on recent developments in evolutionary biology, placing particular emphasis on research related to application or public policy. Examples of topics to be covered include: emergent diseases, biodiversity policy, conservation management, biological impacts of climate change, and public understanding of science.
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	Evolutionary Developmental Biology
code:	BL4274
credits:	15
year:	Senior Honours
semester:	2
description:	Evolution of new morphologies involves changes to the development of organisms. The field of evolutionary developmental biology is thus becoming established as a major and essential component of any comprehensive understanding of evolutionary biology. This module aims to cover some of the main, current themes in evolutionary developmental biology. Since animal life evolved in the sea, much of what we can learn about the major events in animal evolution can be obtained from studying marine invertebrates. Consequently the examples covered in this module will tend to be drawn from these organisms.
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	Experimental Research Project
code:	BL4201
credits:	60
year:	Senior Honours
semester:	3
description:	This project will involve extensive laboratory or field research to investigate a defined problem within biology, appropriate to the degree programme being studied by each student. The project will involve diligence, initiative and independence in pursuing the literature, good experimental design, good experimental and/or analytical technique either in the field or the laboratory, and excellent record keeping. The project will culminate in the production of a high-quality report that demonstrates a deep understanding of the chosen area of research. Students will be allocated to a member of staff within the School of Biology who will guide and advise them in research activities throughout the academic year.
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