Human Biology

Human biology is the scientific study of the structure, function and evolution of the human body, asking how we came to be the way we are, how we change across our lifespan and how our biology interacts with the environments and cultures in which we live. It draws on anatomy, physiology, genetics, evolutionary biology, anthropology and public health to build a comprehensive picture of what it means to be human in a biological sense, and how biological factors shape health, disease and wellbeing.

At Loughborough University, this three-year full-time programme examines human biology at multiple levels, from the molecular mechanisms of cell function and genetic inheritance to the evolutionary pressures that have shaped human anatomy and physiology, and the epidemiological patterns of disease in contemporary populations. You will study human anatomy, physiology, genetics, developmental biology, the biology of ageing and the relationship between biology and culture in shaping disease risk and health outcomes. Loughborough's research strengths in health sciences and biology enrich the teaching environment.

Practical laboratory work, data analysis and scientific communication are central to the programme, developing the skills to design and conduct investigations and to interpret and present biological evidence. Critical thinking and the ability to evaluate scientific literature are built progressively across the degree.

Graduates go on to careers in healthcare sciences, research, public health, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, clinical laboratory science, health promotion, education and science communication. Some go on to postgraduate study in medicine, biomedical science, public health, clinical sciences or related disciplines, building on the broad biological foundation the degree provides. The programme also provides useful preparation for further training in healthcare professions where a strong biological science background is required.