Human Biology with Foundation Year

Study our Natural and Applied Sciences Foundation Year, gaining essential skills, knowledge and research experience, as well as the confidence to complete a full honours degree as part of this four-year course. You’ll be able to begin this qualification without meeting the standard Level 3 entry requirements, learning in a supportive community and gaining the essential skills required to succeed in degree-level education.

From there you'll explore the science behind the human body, health, and disease with a Human Biology degree from CCCU. Develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to make a real impact in research, diagnostics, or future clinical practice.

Supported by a team of experienced academics, you will learn about human anatomy and physiology, the biology of disease, molecular biology, nutrition, and reproduction - to name just a few areas. You will also apply scientific knowledge to real-world problems informed by our industry partners, enabling you to develop skills that will help you become a work-ready graduate.

What you’ll learn across your four-year course
• Study a range of topics, from DNA and biochemical pathways to how organs work together and the behaviours that define us as humans.



• Gain hands-on experience using current lab protocols, scientific equipment, and AI tools to analyse the human body and its interactions with other organisms.



• Learn how the body responds to drugs, food, environmental factors, and other external inputs, preparing you for work in fields like pharmacology, nutrition, or public health.



• Build skills in data analysis, statistics, scientific writing, and AI literacy, which are crucial in research, industry, and communication roles.



• Gain confidence in networking at our dedicated life sciences careers fair, meet employers and get advice on using the skills you’ve developed to progress into your chosen career.



In your final year, you’ll carry out your own research project, integrating all your knowledge and skills to tackle complex scientific questions, just like a graduate researcher in the field.

You’ll benefit from unique opportunities through our industry links, including the Discovery Park Industry Liaison Lab. Located in Kent’s foremost science business park in Sandwich, you'll have the chance to collaborate with companies who are undertaking advanced research.

Whether you’re aiming for graduate into biomedical science, scientific research, or a job in the health sector, this course will give you the skills, knowledge, and experience to kickstart your graduate career.

This course also offers the opportunity to study abroad for a year at one of our partner institutions in North America.

Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology
This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology and meets in part the academic and experience requirements for Membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol) status, giving you confidence that you’ll be joining a degree designed to support your development as a science student.

Specialist facilities
In our Verena Holmes STEM building, you’ll learn using cutting-edge analytical equipment, including: fluorescent and confocal microscopy, gas and liquid chromatography, flow cytometry and mass spectrometry. You will also use the Anatomy Learning Centre, which is a highly specialised anatomy laboratory and is licensed under The Human Tissue Act 2004 and regulated by the Human Tissue Authority.

Career prospects
Graduates from similar courses at Canterbury Christ Church University, including Human Biology and Biomedical Science, have gone on to roles such as:
• Clinical Respiratory Physiologist at Great Ormond Street Hospital



• Research Associate at Epsilogen Ltd



• Support Biomedical Scientist in Medical Microbiology and Virology at St George’s Hospital London



• Junior Chemist at Algaecytes



You could also progress onto postgraduate study at MSc or PhD level, or pursue careers in teaching.

University isn't just an education, it's the start of your career. At Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU), you'll get to explore a number of exciting career paths, whatever you study.

CCCU is ranked top 5 UK university for employability (Uni Compare Rankings 2026), highlighting its excellent student careers and employability support. The university is home to career-relevant courses and industry-standard facilities. For example, film students can showcase their creativity in the fully equipped film/TV studio, forensics students can test their observational abilities in mock crime scenes, and nursing students can practice their skills in simulated hospital wards.

With a campus in a World Heritage Site, Canterbury is also less than an hour on the train from London and is buzzing with student life. You've got beautiful coast and countryside right on your doorstep, and plenty of opportunities to make friends. With CCCU's range of clubs and societies, including Tennis, Musical Theatre and Dodgeball, you're bound to meet your friends for life.

Click register interest now to secure your place at CCCU this September.