Diploma of Higher Education in Biology
Open University
Key Information
Campus location
Online United Kingdom
Languages
English
Study format
Distance Learning
Duration
2 - 4 years
Pace
Full time, Part time
Tuition fees
GBP 6,924 / per year *
Application deadline
Request info
Earliest start date
Request info
* cost per year full-time; £3,462 - cost per year part-time
Introduction
Our biology diploma is for those inspired by the natural world. Studying with the OU will enable you to gain a deeper understanding of the foundations of life and the biological processes involved. Explore diverse subject areas from the cellular and molecular levels to whole organism survival. Biology encompasses all living species, explaining their diversity via evolutionary origins. It defines their anatomy and structure, describes their physiology and behaviour, and provides scientific rationales for their habitat requirements and ecosystem interactions.
Key features of the course
- Gain a contemporary understanding of a range of biology subjects with the study of the scientific method throughout.
- Develop biological data handling, some statistical analysis and technical report-writing, presentation and IT skills.
- Undertake practical work through home and field investigations, as well as virtual and remote experiments using our award-winning OpenScience Lab.
- Further develop fieldwork and practical skills through optional short residential schools, where you can also meet other Open University biology students.
Accessibility
We make all our qualifications as accessible as possible and have a comprehensive range of services to support all our students. This qualification uses a variety of study materials and has the following elements:
- studying a mixture of printed and online material. Online learning resources may include websites, audio/video media clips, and interactive activities such as online quizzes. Many alternative formats are available
- working with specialist reading material such as scientific journals
- using scientific terminology and mathematical, statistical and experimental techniques
- undertaking practical work, fieldwork or using an online laboratory experience
- working together with other OU students and tutors in online tutorial rooms
- using and/or producing data summaries, graphs, tables, diagrams and/or screenshots
- researching, using and acknowledging/referencing external/third party online material.
Program Outcome
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
- Knowledge and understanding.
- Cognitive skills.
- Practical and professional skills.
- Key skills.
The level and depth of your learning gradually increase as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; e-learning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Curriculum
Course details
This diploma has two stages, each comprising 120 credits.
- You’ll start Stage 1 with a 60-credit introductory science module, then continue with another 60-credit science module.
- At Stage 2, you’ll study two 30-credit biology modules and choose a further 60 credits from a range of science modules.