Biology

Biochemistry examines the chemical processes and substances that occur within living organisms. Learners will understand the structure and function of biomolecules like proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, and how metabolic pathways sustain cellular life.

Bioinformatics combines biology, computer science, and statistics to analyze large biological datasets. Learners will understand how to use computational tools and algorithms to sequence genomes, analyze protein structures, and identify genetic variations.

Biology is the study of living organisms, their structure, function, growth, origin, and evolution. Learners will understand cellular processes, genetics, ecological systems, and the fundamental mechanisms that sustain life across different kingdoms.

Biophysics applies physics to living systems. You will learn molecular motors and membranes, statistical physics of biomolecules, imaging techniques and the quantitative methods of modern biology.

This field covers the manipulation of biological systems and organisms to develop products and technologies. Learners will understand genetic engineering techniques, metabolic pathway design, and how to apply synthetic biology principles to medicine, agriculture, and environmental remediation.

Birding connects fieldcraft with the science of birds. You will learn identification by sight and sound, optics and field guides, bird biology and migration, and citizen-science tools like eBird.

Botany is the scientific study of plant life, encompassing structure, growth, reproduction, and evolution. Learners will understand plant physiology, photosynthesis, ecological relationships, and how plants adapt to diverse environments and contribute to global carbon and oxygen cycles.

This discipline focuses on the structural and functional units of life at the cellular and molecular levels. Learners will understand cell signaling, organelle function, macromolecular interactions, and the processes governing cell division, growth, and programmed cell death.

Developmental biology examines how a single fertilized cell becomes a structured organism. You will understand cell fate specification, morphogen gradients, pattern formation, and the regulatory genetics that control embryonic development across model organisms.

Ecology studies the interactions between organisms and their physical environments. Learners will understand energy flow through ecosystems, population dynamics, biodiversity patterns, and how human activities impact natural habitats, biogeochemical cycles, and global climate systems.

Entomology is the study of insects, the most diverse animals on Earth. You will learn insect anatomy and classification, ecology and behaviour, collecting and identification, and their role in agriculture and disease.

Evolution is the study of how populations of organisms change over generations through mechanisms like natural selection. Learners will understand the genetic basis of adaptation, speciation, and the shared evolutionary history of all life on Earth.

Evolutionary psychology explains the mind as a product of natural selection. You will learn its core hypotheses on mating, cooperation and cognition, the evidence for and against, and the main critiques.

Fishkeeping is keeping aquatic life healthy in a closed system. You will learn the nitrogen cycle, water chemistry, filtration, stocking, planted and low-tech tanks, and how to recognize and treat common fish diseases.

Mycology is the study of fungi and foraging the practice of gathering wild food. You will learn fungal biology and identification, safe foraging of mushrooms and plants, and the field guides and communities that matter.

Genetic engineering involves the direct manipulation of an organism's genes using biotechnology. Learners will understand recombinant DNA techniques, gene splicing, and how to modify organisms for medical, agricultural, and industrial applications.

Genetics is the study of heredity, genes, and variation in living organisms. Learners will understand how genetic information is encoded, replicated, and inherited, as well as how genetic mutations contribute to diseases and evolutionary processes.

Genomics reads whole genomes and personal genetics interprets yours. You will learn sequencing technologies, genome analysis, polygenic risk and ancestry, and the ethics of personal genetic data.

The gut microbiome shapes digestion, immunity and possibly mood. You will learn what the science actually shows, how diet affects microbes, probiotics and fermented foods, and how to spot overclaims.

Human evolution traces our lineage over seven million years. You will learn the fossil record, genetics and ancient DNA, the origins of language and culture, and the debates that shape the field.

Immunology is the study of the body's defense mechanisms against pathogens and foreign substances. Learners will understand how the innate and adaptive immune systems function, how vaccines work, and the mechanisms behind allergies and autoimmune disorders.

Marine biology studies life in the oceans. You will learn marine ecosystems from reefs to the deep sea, ocean organisms, conservation threats and the careers and courses in the field.

Microbiology is the study of microscopic organisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Learners will understand the biology of these microorganisms, their roles in ecosystems, and how they cause, prevent, and treat infectious diseases.

Physiology is the study of how the organs and systems of the human body function. Learners will understand the physical and chemical processes that maintain homeostasis, including cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, and endocrine system operations.

Systems biology models cells and organisms as networks rather than parts lists. You will understand gene regulatory circuits, feedback and robustness, stochastic gene expression, and the quantitative methods used to predict how biological networks behave.

Veterinary medicine cares for animal health. You will learn comparative anatomy and disease, common companion and farm-animal conditions, and the training path into veterinary practice.

Virology studies viruses and how they spread. You will learn virus structure and replication, immunity and vaccines, epidemiology of outbreaks and the history of pandemics.

Zoology and animal science focus on the biology, physiology, behavior, and classification of animals. Learners will understand animal anatomy, evolutionary adaptations, ecological roles, and the principles of animal management and conservation.