BL1101 Biology 1

Academic year

2025 to 2026 Semester 1

Further information on which modules are specific to your programme.

Key module information

SCOTCAT credits

20

The Scottish Credit Accumulation and Transfer (SCOTCAT) system allows credits gained in Scotland to be transferred between institutions. The number of credits associated with a module gives an indication of the amount of learning effort required by the learner. European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) credits are half the value of SCOTCAT credits.

SCQF level

SCQF level 7

The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) provides an indication of the complexity of award qualifications and associated learning and operates on an ascending numeric scale from Levels 1-12 with SCQF Level 10 equating to a Scottish undergraduate Honours degree.

Availability restrictions

In the event of over-subscription, places will be given to students who require the module for their programme, and students on supported pathway or visiting programmes with the correct pre-requisites. If spaces are available at the end of the main advising period (after Wednesday in Orientation Week), a random ballot will be conducted for students selecting the module as an option, with priority given to first year students.

Planned timetable

10.00-11.00am Monday to Friday; Practical classes one per week 2.00 - 5.00 pm Mon, Tue, or Wed

This information is given as indicative. Timetable may change at short notice depending on room availability.

Module Staff

Team taught

This information is given as indicative. Staff involved in a module may change at short notice depending on availability and circumstances.

Module 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 practical classes where biological laboratory techniques are taught.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisites

THE STUDENT MUST HAVE HIGHER OR A-LEVEL (OR EQUIVALENT) IN BIOLOGY OR HUMAN BIOLOGY AT GRADE B OR BETTER,THIS MODULE HAS AVAILABILITY RESTRICTIONS INDICATED IN THE 2025-26 <A TARGET="_BLANK" HREF="HTTPS://WWW.ST-ANDREWS.AC.UK/SUBJECTS/MODULES/">MODULE CATALOGUE</A>. YOU SHOULD ENSURE YOU UNDERSTAND THE AVAILABILITY RESTRICTIONS BEFORE SELECTING THIS MODULE.

Assessment pattern

Coursework = 100%.

Re-assessment

Coursework = 100%

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact

Across the semester: 40 x 1h lectures, 4 x 1h tutorials, 4 x 1h revision workshops, 6 x 3h practicals

Scheduled learning hours

88

The number of compulsory student:staff contact hours over the period of the module.

Guided independent study hours

112

The number of hours that students are expected to invest in independent study over the period of the module.

Intended learning outcomes

  • Understand the basic structure and function of cells, how cells originated, and their organelles
  • Understand Mendelian genetics and its extensions, be able to map genes from linkage data
  • Understand the basic structure of DNA and RNA and their role in protein synthesis
  • Have a general understanding of bioinformatics
  • Have a general understanding of modern biotechnology, including uses of recombinant DNA
  • Understand what proteins are and how they function