A number of degree courses at the School of Biological Sciences and IGFS have been granted the prestigious status of being formally accredited by the Royal Society of Biology.

The degree courses, which will be accredited for five years, are:

• BSc (Hons) Biochemistry
• BSc (Hons) Biochemistry with Professional Studies
• BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences
• BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences with Professional Studies
• BSc (Hons) Marine Biology
• BSc (Hons) Marine Biology with Professional Studies
• BSc (Hons) Microbiology
• BSc (Hons) Microbiology with Professional Studies
• BSc (Hons) Zoology
• BSc (Hons) Zoology with Professional Studies

As well as the added kudos that accreditation brings, graduates from the above will receive one year of free membership of the Royal Society of Biology at Associate level. This opens up professional and knowledge-exchange networks and at a crucial time when starting out on a career.

The Royal Society of Biology is a professional body for the biological sciences in the UK, representing over 18,000 biologists from all areas of the life sciences, as well as over 100 organisations.

It advises government and other public bodies; promotes educational activities and professional development for its members; and encourages public interest in and engagement with the life sciences.

Members include students at all levels, academics, scientists working in industry, public policy and education, and non-professionals with an interest in biology.