International Study Centre

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Life Sciences

Study Life Sciences

The Pre-Masters Programme in Business, Humanities, Science and Engineering (Life Sciences) provides a route to a variety of related postgraduate degrees at the University of Sussex. There are two lengths of study available. You can choose from a 2-semester or 1-semester option of this programme, depending on entry requirements.

Why study with us?

There are many reasons why you may want to study this preparational programme and have the opportunity to progress to a range of postgraduate degrees. These include:

  • 94% of our research overall in Biological Sciences was assessed to be world leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021)
  • 5th in the UK for Zoology (The Guardian University Guide 2024)
  • 6th in the UK for Animal Science (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024)

What you’ll study

During your programme you will study a combination of academic modules, specific to your pathway, and compulsory modules.

Core modules

Academic English Skills aims to provide thorough training in the language and related academic skills which will enable international students to best achieve their academic potential at university. Our Academic English programme is validated by UK ENIC, the UK government agency responsible for providing information and expert opinion on qualifications and skills worldwide. You will develop awareness and competency in a range of language-related academic skills, including the processes of academic writing, effective and extensive reading strategies, effective participation in seminars and delivery of presentations, and listening to and recording information effectively from lectures. You will also develop the accuracy and range of written and spoken language required to use language effectively and appropriately, with clarity and confidence in an academic context.

This module introduces you to key academic skills by inviting you to work in a collaborative and interdisciplinary fashion on a group project. You will study a range of skills targeted towards introductory postgraduate-level research, using key literature. By focusing on a series of key texts, you will learn how to analyse language and structure in academic literature and place this effectively into a larger context. The module culminates in group poster presentations, allowing you to present the research you have undertaken throughout the semester.

*This module is applicable to 2-semester programme only.

This module facilitates your learning about your post-Master's vocation or studies. Through targeted and focused supervision, you will undertake individual research projects into your prospective future work or studies and what skills will be required for you to succeed.

This module will uncover the essential philosophical constructs underlying scientific investigations, preparing you to identify and undertake research projects confidently. From formulating testable hypotheses to analysing and interpreting large data sets using cutting-edge software, this dynamic module will empower you to design rigorous studies, master statistical analysis, and evaluate research outcomes.

Pathway modules

This module will introduce you to a selection of cutting edge techniques used in life sciences and pharmacy while guiding you to evaluate the applications of these techniques in different areas of research within your own discipline. As part of this module you are expected to attend a seminar series at the University. These seminars will allow you to gain first-hand insight into the nature of scientific research from researchers actively involved in current research. The aim of this module is to enable you to critically evaluate and interpret this knowledge to help solve research problems in your chosen area of study.

This module develops knowledge and skills needed for reviewing academic literature, and you will explore the ethical concepts and issues a researcher needs to consider while carrying out research. Using workshops, you will gain hands-on experience in using literature databases, referencing software and search methods. Interactive seminars will encourage you to critically analyse controversial issues regarding values and ethics in life sciences and psychology research. These activities develop the skills to work independently and as a team, make decisions and to take the initiative.

This module will provide you with the chance to conduct your own independent research project under the guidance of experienced staff. You will choose the topic, design the experiments, and then report the findings both as a poster presentation and a written report. As you the conduct your research, you will learn how to read technical literature, demonstrate understanding of ethical implications, collect and analyse data, and identify new avenues of research based on your findings.

This module aims to provide the relevant knowledge and skills for students progressing onto postgraduate courses at the University of Sussex. The module concentrates on four key areas, algebra, calculus, statistics and discrete maths. You will represent real-word problems with mathematical models and learn how to effectively communicate your conclusions.

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How to apply

Ready to apply? Discover how to submit an application and learn more about fees, semester dates and entry requirements.

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University of Sussex International Study Centre

Develop skills to change the world at the University of Sussex International Study Centre. Improve your English, develop your academic skills, and grow the confidence you need to succeed in your degree.

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English language courses

Our online English Language preparation courses will help you develop your English language skills to the level required to begin your chosen pathway programme.

Join us today

Our Student Enrolment Advisors are available to answer any questions you may have and help you with your application. We can't wait to meet you!