For centuries, Europe has been recognized as the cultural and social hub of the world. Precisely because of this, it attracts a significant number of students from all walks of life wishing to pursue tertiary education. Europe is appealing to students both because of its academic excellence and culturally diverse learning environment. During their studies, most students have a chance to travel around the continent and learn a foreign language. To get a better sense of all that Europe has to offer academically, here are a few of the best biology universities in Europe.
Which University has the best biology program?
When it comes to science and biology programs, there are multiple universities in the world that are highly ranked, but one of the best global universities that tends to offer this program is Harvard University. This university is a part of the elite American universities, and it is highly popular with both domestic and international students. At the moment, we do not have a vast amount of information on this particular course, but if you are interested in other courses, you can check them out on our website.
Top Universities for Biology in Europe
1. University of Cambridge
As a center for higher education, the University of Cambridge has a centuries-long reputation for academic excellence at the international level. As it was founded in 1231 by Henry III, it is considered one of the oldest universities in both England and the world. Its origins may be traced to an association of scholars who abruptly left Oxford University in search of more academic diversity and freedom. The university does not have a main campus, rather its thirty-one semi-autonomous colleges and research facilities are scattered through the town of Cambridge.
The University of Cambridge is known as one of the best universities for biology in Europe. This field is primarily situated in the School of Biological Sciences, which further divides biological research into nine departments, ranging from the study of botany to development and neuroscience. Maintaining its reputation of academic excellence and inspiring thought-provoking research have been defined as the main goals of the School of Biological Sciences. Furthermore, each biological department encourages interdisciplinary communication with both other departments as well as other colleges, as this provides unique and comprehensive approaches to relevant research issues.
2. University of Oxford
As the oldest university in the English-speaking world, the University of Oxford has received international acclaim ever since its founding in 1096. It is considered one of the most notable research centers in the world, together with the University of Cambridge, with which it shares many common features. The two are commonly referred to as Oxbridge. Throughout its history as well as today, the university has housed leading figures in research fields ranging from literature and the arts on the one hand to physics and chemistry on the other.
One of the university’s most prominent programs, presently as well as during its centuries-long existence, has been the field of biology. Today, most biological research is conducted at the university’s Departments of Zoology and Plant Sciences. In addition to the two main departments, biology is also taught through an interdisciplinary approach at many other colleges and faculties at the university. Oxford approaches the study of biology by firstly offering a comprehensive overview of the field to its students. Afterward, as they progress further, students are encouraged to follow their interests and select a subfield for their specialization.
3. ETH Zurich
ETH Zurich is another top biology institution in Europe. It is a prominent research institution situated in the Swiss city of the same name. It was founded in 1854 with the primary goal of educating the country’s leading scientists, mathematicians, and engineers. Although the university has developed since its establishment, its main focus has remained in the realm of technology and natural sciences. Today, it is devoted to awakening the entrepreneurial spirit in each of its students, as well as teaching them the importance of having an open and curious mind. Through instilling these values, the university believes it will produce leading technical experts and engineers capable of pinpointing the most burning issues of today’s world.
The ETH Department of Biology is one of sixteen departments at the university. The primary method of teaching consists of a variety of experimental and innovative methods, meant to transfer not only theoretical but practical knowledge as well. In this way, students come to understand the importance of implementing what they learn in the classroom in the field. Concerning biological research, the department is focused on explaining the relationships between structure and function on both the macro and micro levels of biology.
4. Imperial College London
Another university located in England, the Imperial College London has been internationally recognized for both its academic excellence and innovative approach to teaching. It was established at the beginning of the 20th century and has since then focused exclusively on the domains of science, medicine, technology, and business. In addition to two research campuses, the university encompasses several teaching hospitals across London as well. Its primary goal is an interdisciplinary approach to education that will redefine the boundaries of modern science.
One of many departments that envelops the university’s aims and values is the Department of Life Sciences. Within the department, students on both the graduate and undergraduate levels learn about the interconnectedness and inner workings of all living systems. As they progress further through their studies, students are encouraged to become more independent and ask thought-provoking questions about the world around them. Thus, the department enables them to choose from a wide variety of modules and center themselves on the field they are most passionate about. In addition to their courses at the Imperial College London, students are also encouraged to seek out exchange opportunities and internships both at the national and international levels.
5. University of Edinburgh
Situated in the picturesque and historical city of the same name, the University of Edinburgh is among the most prominent research universities both in Scotland and abroad. As it was founded by a charter in the 16th century, it is considered to be an ancient Scottish university and is among the oldest in Europe. As of the present, the University is a member of several international programs, placing it at the forefront of research and education. Similar to some previously mentioned universities, the University of Edinburgh has five campuses scattered across the city, thus giving students the chance to familiarize themselves with the city and culture during their studies.
Known for excelling in many fields, the University of Edinburgh is also recognized as one of Europe’s best biology universities. Biological research at the university is centered at the Department of Biological Sciences. In addition to its innovative teaching methods, the department strives to create an inclusive and diverse environment as well. Because of this, it places great emphasis on student exchange programs and cooperation within and between departments. Therefore, once they graduate, students have not only received a comprehensive education but are ready to work in diverse teams as equals.
We hope this article on the best biology universities in Europe was helpful. If you are interested in learning more, check out the Programs in Europe for International Students!
