Biology

University of York has opted into the TEF and received a Gold award.

Students advance their knowledge or understanding of a particular aspect of the field of study. Students conduct a research project in the lab of a supervisor to produce a research thesis. An MSc by Research thesis will be narrower in scope than an MPhil thesis, although it should still contain some original work. The degree can start at any point in the year. The application procedure is similar to an MPhil and PhD, with students applying to a specific supervisor who is expert in the student's research area of interest.

York is home to international students from around the world and its website contains specific information for each country about requirements to study there. There is a special international student support department that offer everything from immigration advice services to student orientation programs on arrival in the UK. The orientation program, called Welcome Week, is a free program of talks and activities to help international students understand life at York and the British culture. There is also an International Students Association (ISA) to get involved with and English language support programs for those who don't speak English or wish to learn more. The ISA is a part of the YUSU and is one of the largest organisations on campus with some 2000 members. It hosts around 100 events each year with the aim of promoting cultural exchange. Student life outside the classroom revolves around the University of York Student Union or YUSU. It operates a licensed venue called The Courtyard as well as representing students through a number of committees and its council. The union operates a TV station, radio station and a student newspaper as well as a magazine and its own cinema, showing around 30 films each term. The university has over 60 sports teams participating in the British Universities and Colleges Sport league as well as the annual Roses Tournament against Lancaster University, the largest inter-university tournament in Europe. It commemorates the Civil War known as the War of the Roses. In the arts, the Music Society and the Drama Society are two of the largest groups on campus and work together to stage an annual musical. There are also a number of specialist art groups including the ComedySoc an FUSION, dedicated to urban music and raising money for charity. All take part in York Carnival, an annual celebration of music and arts in York that now sees crowds in excess of 5000.