The Society of Biology celebrates accredited degrees at its annual awards

The accreditation of bioscience degrees at the University of Liverpool, University of Manchester, Royal Veterinary College London and the University of York was celebrated at the annual Degree Accreditation Awards Ceremony in September. The accredited degrees have been acknowledged for their academic excellence and commitment to developing graduate employability skills.

The awards ceremony took place in the beautiful grounds of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, with over 100 guests representing academia, industry and learned societies in the UK. Guests heard about the development of the Degree Accreditation Programme from Professor David Coates FSB; followed by Professor Lynne Boddy FSB, who spoke passionately about the need for skilled graduates in niche areas of biology, such as mycology.

This year’s awards ceremony celebrated the first degrees accredited since the pilot in 2011/12, which focused on biochemistry degree programmes. The Degree Accreditation Programme has now been expanded to cover the breadth of the life sciences; degrees accredited this 2012/13 academic year covered microbiology, biotechnology and plant science.

The Society of Biology has developed the Degree Accreditation Programme to address the graduate skills gaps between study and employment. Lack of experience and practical skills have been recognised as a barrier for graduates entering employment, and for employers seeking suitable candidates. The degrees accredited by the Society provide students with the opportunity to gain substantial research experience, helping to maintain a pipeline of skilled graduates into nationally important research areas.

Mark Downs, Chief Executive of the Society of Biology, says: ‘Employability has been pushed to the forefront of graduates’ minds in recent years, yet employers consistently report a skills gap. These courses have been accredited because they are producing research-ready graduates with the skills and experience needed to enter the competitive job market.’

View the full list of accredited degrees on the Society of Biology's website.

The Society of Biology would like to thank the event sponsors, AstraZeneca and Cogent. The Degree Accreditation Programme has received co-investment from the UK Commission for Skills and Employment through the Growth and Innovation Fund.

Jess Devonport MSB

Marketing and Communications Officer, Society of Biology
Email: [email protected]