Anatomy BSc
AAB – BBB at A level, A-level Biology or Chemistry; graduates earn a median £24,000 three years on.
Typical A level offer
AAB – BBB
A-level Biology or Chemistry · 85% of entrants came with A levels · 80% stay on after year 1 · Glasgow course page, Discover Uni
Year 13 · applying
What do you need to get in?
AAB – BBBtypical A level offer
Typical offer — the grades most applicants are asked for. A contextual offer can be lower for applicants from under-represented backgrounds; none is published for this course.
Glasgow course page, read 19 September 2026 · Discover Uni entry profile
- 1A-level Biology or Chemistry
Who actually got in: 85% with A levels, 10% via Access courses, 5% with other higher education. 65% arrived with 208 or more UCAS tariff points — roughly A*A*A or better. Based on 35 entrants.
UCAS tariff points — a points scale for grades: A* = 56, A = 48, so A*A*A = 160. Entrants’ totals include extra subjects.
Other qualifications2
| Qualification | Typical offer | Required subjects |
|---|---|---|
| Scottish Highers | AAAAAminimum from S5: ABBB | Higher Biology or Chemistry. (A in either). |
| IB | 34 (6,5,5) | HL Biology or Chemistry. |
Years 1–4
What do you study?
4compulsory modules in year 1
Compulsory modules this year: natural sciences 66% · mathematics & statistics 24% · transversal skills 6% · green & sustainability 4%.
Module — one course unit, usually a term or a year long; “core” means everyone takes it. One UK credit is about ten hours of study; a full year is 120 credits.
Glasgow course page · optional modules vary by year
Year 1 · 4 core · 100 credits ≈ 1,000 hours
- Biology 1A
What you learn (8)
- distinguish prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structures
- describe the structure and function of the cardiovascular system
- describe the structure and function of the respiratory system
- describe the structure and function of the nervous and immune systems
- explain fundamental concepts underlying ecological relationships
- interpret scientific data sets to draw valid conclusions
- critically appraise scientific literature
- perform standard laboratory techniques safely and accurately
- Biology 1B
What you learn (12)
- describe the structure and function of major biological molecules
- describe the biochemical process of photosynthesis in plants
- describe the stages of cellular respiration
- explain patterns of genetic inheritance
- describe causes and mechanisms of genetic disease
- discuss competing theories explaining evolutionary change
- discuss recent advances in plant biotechnology
- discuss the role of biotechnology in addressing food security
- interpret scientific data presented in graphs and tables
- evaluate findings reported in scientific literature
- perform standard laboratory techniques used in biological research
- record and report experimental results accurately
- Chemistry 1
What you learn (4)
- describe fundamental facts and experimental foundations of modern chemistry
- solve basic numerical problems in chemistry contexts
- solve basic logical problems in chemistry contexts
- perform standard chemical laboratory techniques
- Science Fundamentals-1X
What you learn (6)
- explain the role of si units and appropriate approximation in calculations
- perform arithmetic and proportion calculations without a calculator
- solve linear and simultaneous equations and derive line equations
- draw molecular structures and identify types of isomerism
- explain the role of lone pairs in molecular shape and reactivity
- identify functional groups and relate them to compound names
Year 2 · 6 core · 180 credits ≈ 1,800 hours
- Fundamental Topics in Biology 2
What you learn (6)
- apply core biological theories and concepts to relevant scenarios
- describe biological processes ranging from molecular to ecosystem level
- illustrate biological concepts using examples such as ageing, genomics and immunity
- interpret findings from scientific literature
- analyse scientific data including laboratory-derived results
- communicate scientific ideas clearly to an audience
- Core Concepts in Human Biological Sciences 2
What you learn (9)
- describe the cellular and tissue organisation of selected body systems
- relate structural features of tissues to their physiological function
- explain the concept of homeostasis in human physiology
- explain how neural and endocrine systems coordinate physiological responses
- interpret biological data relating to human health and disease
- apply biological data to explain system responses in health and disease scenarios
- explain how practical techniques are applied in research and clinical practice
- communicate human biology concepts using terminology suited to the audience
- reflect on personal graduate attributes within a scientific context
- Animal Biology, Evolution and Ecology 2
What you learn (8)
- describe key topics in evolutionary biology, physiology, zoology and ecology
- describe principles of terrestrial and aquatic conservation
- evaluate patterns of biological diversity across species
- evaluate ecological and evolutionary processes shaping diversity
- interpret findings from scientific literature
- analyse scientific data collected in laboratory settings
- analyse scientific data collected in field environments
- communicate scientific ideas clearly to an audience
- Genes, Molecules & Cells 2
What you learn (8)
- describe key mechanisms in biochemistry
- describe fundamental concepts in genetics
- describe core principles of molecular and cellular biology
- evaluate experimental approaches for addressing scientific questions
- interpret findings from scientific literature
- analyse scientific datasets including laboratory-generated data
- solve quantitative problems relevant to biological sciences
- communicate scientific ideas clearly to others
- Investigating Human Biological Sciences 2
What you learn (6)
- explain features of human structure and function in applied scenarios
- apply numerical and statistical methods to analyse data
- interpret data to draw evidence-based conclusions
- communicate human biology concepts using suitable terminology for the audience
- evaluate ethical and sustainable practice in biological investigation
- reflect on personal graduate skills relevant to employability
- Microbiology and Immunology 2
What you learn (6)
- describe fundamental concepts underlying microbial biology
- explain how immune components interact to prevent infection
- explain how immune system dysfunction contributes to disease
- extract relevant findings from scientific literature
- analyse laboratory-generated scientific data
- present scientific ideas clearly to an audience
Year 3 · 2 core · 120 credits ≈ 1,200 hours
- Anatomy 3A
What you learn (17)
- describe core concepts of neuroanatomy and upper limb anatomy
- outline the experimental evidence underpinning modern anatomical knowledge
- evaluate modern technologies used to investigate anatomical structures
- assess the value of histological techniques in anatomical study
- perform dissection techniques to examine anatomical structures
- prepare and examine histological specimens using laboratory methods
- explain legal and safety requirements for working in an anatomy laboratory
- present scientific findings orally to an audience
- produce written reports covering experimental and ethical aspects of research
- use digital tools to communicate scientific information
- design an experimental plan using appropriate scientific methods
- apply statistical methods to analyse experimental data
- solve numerical and logical problems using statistical techniques
- identify relevant scientific literature for a given topic
- critically evaluate the quality of scientific publications
- work independently to complete assigned tasks
- collaborate effectively within a team setting
- Anatomy 3B with COIL
What you learn (18)
- explain key facts of comparative and developmental anatomy
- describe the experimental basis underlying anatomical knowledge
- evaluate modern scientific technologies used in anatomical research
- assess the application of molecular techniques to anatomical study
- perform dissection procedures to examine anatomical structures
- apply histological techniques to prepare and examine tissue samples
- carry out molecular laboratory methods relevant to anatomy
- present scientific findings orally to an audience
- produce written reports on experimental and ethical issues in science
- use digital tools to communicate scientific information
- design an experiment to test a biological hypothesis
- apply statistical methods to analyse experimental data
- solve numerical and logical problems using statistical techniques
- identify relevant scientific literature for a given topic
- critically evaluate the quality and relevance of scientific sources
- work independently to complete scientific tasks
- collaborate effectively within an international team
- engage respectfully with diverse perspectives from global partners
Year 4 · 10 core · 280 credits ≈ 2,800 hours
- Clinical Applied Anatomy (Sem 2) 4D option
What you learn (7)
- analyse underlying pathological conditions linked to anatomical structures
- explain the clinical relevance of anatomical knowledge to disease understanding
- critique recent developments in surgical techniques
- perform dissection to demonstrate specific anatomical structures
- relate dissection findings to pathological or surgical features
- evaluate science communication approaches for different clinical audiences
- discuss techniques for conveying anatomical information to surgeons and patients
- Problems in Human Reproduction 4B option
What you learn (6)
- describe normal physiological processes of human reproduction
- explain stages of early conceptus development
- identify common problems affecting human reproduction
- assess current technologies used to address reproductive problems
- evaluate laboratory techniques applied in reproductive research
- critique recent scientific advances in reproductive research
- Life Sciences Investigative Honours Project
What you learn (11)
- design a structured plan for a research investigation
- carry out a research project following the planned approach
- critically appraise existing scientific literature
- summarise key findings from previous studies
- collect scientific data using appropriate methods
- analyse scientific data using suitable techniques
- interpret scientific results in relation to the research question
- relate research findings to existing scientific knowledge
- propose directions for future research based on findings
- compose a coherent scientific report meeting specified guidelines
- deliver a clear oral presentation of research to an audience
- Life Sciences Dissertation Honours Project
What you learn (10)
- design an investigation to address a focused research question
- carry out an investigation using relevant literature sources
- devise a strategic plan for selecting evidence sources within a topic
- apply systematic search techniques to bibliographic databases
- combine data gathered from multiple sources
- critically evaluate data drawn from different sources
- form reasoned conclusions supported by available evidence
- produce a coherent written report in an appropriate scientific format
- design an oral presentation to communicate research findings
- deliver a clear presentation of research to an audience
- Life Sciences Outreach Honours Project
What you learn (10)
- design an outreach activity to communicate scientific findings
- deliver an outreach activity to a non-specialist audience
- evaluate the effectiveness of an outreach activity
- critically appraise published research papers in the subject field
- summarise key findings from scientific literature
- collect scientific data using appropriate methods
- analyse scientific data using suitable techniques
- interpret scientific data to draw conclusions
- compose a coherent written research report
- deliver a structured oral presentation of research findings
- Life Sciences Internship Honours Project
What you learn (10)
- summarise existing research literature on a topic
- evaluate the quality and relevance of prior research
- analyse scientific data to identify patterns and trends
- interpret scientific data to draw valid conclusions
- evaluate the reliability and significance of scientific data
- produce a coherent written report following specified guidelines
- deliver a structured oral presentation of research findings to peers
- explain the scientific principles and methods applied during the internship
- explain the relevance of the internship project to the workplace
- reflect on how the internship contributed to personal development
- Core Skills for Modern Anatomists 4X core
What you learn (6)
- evaluate the justification and importance of anatomical research in modern science
- appraise the range of approaches used in contemporary anatomical research
- analyse different types of data generated by anatomical research
- critique research articles relating to anatomical studies
- formulate hypotheses to address current gaps in anatomical knowledge
- devise solutions to problems that advance anatomical understanding
- Applied GenAI and Data-Informed Practice in Anatomical Imaging 4C option
What you learn (9)
- evaluate the applications and value of various anatomical imaging methods
- assess the limitations and drawbacks of different imaging modalities
- compare AI-based and human-led methods in anatomical imaging
- identify situations where AI, human or hybrid approaches are most suitable
- critically appraise research evidence supporting AI-driven imaging practices
- apply systematic methods to assess data-informed imaging practice quality
- discuss ethical issues arising from AI use in anatomical imaging
- explain data governance and accountability requirements in AI-based imaging
- discuss equity and sustainability implications of AI-informed imaging practice
- Forensic Osteology 4Y option
What you learn (8)
- evaluate current approaches used to identify skeletal remains
- explain why anatomical knowledge is important for identifying remains
- construct a biological profile from skeletal characteristics
- evaluate a biological profile against published research findings
- evaluate skeletal signs of disease in bone remains
- evaluate skeletal signs of trauma in bone remains
- critically review published research to support forensic report conclusions
- discuss contentious debates within forensic osteology literature
- Diverse Anatomy 4Y option
What you learn (4)
- evaluate variation in human anatomy across protected characteristic groups
- critique existing research studies on anatomical diversity
- critique current clinical practices relating to anatomical diversity
- propose future research addressing gaps in equality and diversity knowledge in anatomy
“What you learn” restates each module’s published learning outcomes in our own words, as short skill statements in the same form as the GCSE and A level curriculum, with the help of an AI model; fields of knowledge follow the twelve fields of the knowledge sphere. The university’s module page, linked from each title, is the authoritative description.
After graduating
Where does it lead?
£24,000median pay three years after graduating
Lower quarter£21k
Median£24k
Upper quarter£31k
Median — the middle earner: half earned more, half less. Pay is for graduates of this subject at this university who finished in 2016-18, not adjusted for inflation; based on 65 graduates.
Discover Uni dataset (HESA and Office for Students, CC BY 4.0, contains HESA data); earnings from the Longitudinal Education Outcomes data (Department for Education) · aggregation level 14, 23
Half of graduates earned between £20,500 and £31,000. Five years on, the median is £30,500. 95% were in work or further study 15 months after finishing; 60% of those in work were in professional or managerial jobs.
All outcome figures7
| Measure | Value | Based on |
|---|---|---|
| Continue after year 120% left | 80% | 45 |
| In work or study, 15 months on20% studying | 95% | 20 |
| Professional or managerial job | 60% | 10 |
| Pay 15 months on, median | £25,500 | 15 |
| Pay 3 years on, median | £24,000 | 65 |
| Pay 5 years on, median | £30,500 | 65 |
National Student Survey 2025-26
What do students say?
94%agreed the course was good overall (question 26)
NSS — a yearly survey of final-year students at every UK university; 53% of this course’s final year answered. Small groups can swing a lot year to year.
National Student Survey, via Discover Uni · 20 students answered
Highest: 100% agreed on question 1; lowest: 72% on question 14.
All questions26
| Question | Agree |
|---|---|
| Question 1 | 100% |
| Question 2 | 94% |
| Question 3 | 100% |
| Question 4 | 94% |
| Question 5 | 83% |
| Question 6 | 94% |
| Question 7 | 89% |
| Question 8 | 89% |
| Question 9 | 89% |
| Question 10 | 83% |
| Question 11 | 72% |
| Question 12 | 72% |
| Question 13 | 100% |
| Question 14 | 72% |
| Question 15 | 100% |
| Question 16 | 100% |
| Question 17 | 100% |
| Question 18 | 100% |
| Question 19 | 94% |
| Question 20 | 82% |
| Question 21 | 100% |
| Question 22 | 94% |
| Question 23 | 88% |
| Question 24 | 94% |
| Question 25 | 100% |
| Question 26 | 94% |
Question texts are published by the Office for Students; the dataset carries only the question numbers.
Modules, entry requirements and fees are facts read from University of Glasgow’s course page on 2026-09-19 and may change; the university’s page is authoritative. Descriptions are not reproduced. Outcome figures are from the Discover Uni dataset. University of Glasgow is a trade mark of the university; sch.today is independent of it.