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An image to illustrate the Diploma of Higher Education in Biology
Our biology diploma is for those inspired by the natural world. Studying with the OU will enable you to gain a deeper understanding of the foundations of life and the biological processes involved. Explore diverse subject areas from the cellular and molecular levels to whole-organism survival. Biology encompasses all living species, explaining their diversity via evolutionary origins. It defines their anatomy and structure, describes their physiology and behaviour, and provides scientific rationales for their habitat requirements and ecosystem interactions.
W89
Diploma of Higher EducationUndergraduate240
Part-time – 4 years
Full-time – 2 yearsOctober 2026February 2027
Distance learning
Gain a contemporary understanding of a range of biology subjects with the study of the scientific method throughout Develop biological data handling, some statistical analysis and technical report-writing, presentation and IT skills Undertake practical work through home and field investigations, as well as virtual and remote experiments using our award-winning OpenScience Lab Further develop fieldwork and practical skills through optional short residential schools, where you can also meet other Open University biology students
This Diploma of Higher Education is the same as Stages 1 and 2 of our BSc (Honours) Biology (R58).
W89
Diploma of Higher EducationUndergraduate240
Part-time – 4 years
Full-time – 2 yearsOctober 2026February 2027
Distance learning
This biology diploma has two stages, each comprising 120 credits.
You’ll study two 60-credit modules, introducing you to many branches of science and exploring the ideas that underpin the study of science at a higher level.

ModulesCreditsStart month
You'll study both of the following:
Questions in science (S111)60Oct | Feb
Science: concepts and practice (S112)60Oct

You’ll study two 30-credit modules examining adaptation and natural selection and exploring the world of living cells, plus choose 60 credits of complementary option modules.

ModulesCreditsStart month
You'll study both of the following:
Biodiversity: survival in a changing world (S286)30Oct
Cell and molecular biology (S296)30Oct
You'll choose 60 credits from:
Brain, mind and mental health (SK298)30Oct
Environmental science (S226)60Oct
Human biology (SK299)30Oct
Investigative approaches in biology and chemistry (S285)30Oct

By studying this diploma, you’ll:
Explore the science of life – study cell biology, genetics, evolution, ecology and the biology of whole organisms. Understand experimental and fieldwork methods – collect, analyse and interpret biological data using appropriate techniques. Apply biological knowledge – investigate issues such as conservation, biotechnology, health and disease. Develop transferable skills – plan and conduct research, solve problems and communicate findings clearly.
You’ll be supported by personal tutors, high-quality materials, online tutorials and practical activities, with opportunities for laboratory and fieldwork.
You’ll be awarded a Diploma of Higher Education in Biology upon successful completion.
You'll also have the opportunity to attend a degree ceremony.
If you plan to work or study outside the UK, we recommend checking whether this qualification meets local requirements. Find out more about the international recognition of Open University qualifications.
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the qualification-specific regulations below and the academic regulations that are available on our Student Policies and Regulations website.
Diploma of Higher Education in Biology
We regularly review our curriculum to keep it up to date. This means the structure, availability, and content of the course or modules may change. We’ll update this page as soon as possible if there are any changes. If you have already registered for this qualification, we’ll inform you in good time of any upcoming changes where practicable. For more details, see our Academic Regulations or contact us.
You can achieve this diploma in as little as two years and have a maximum of 12 years to complete it. Our module-by-module approach gives you the flexibility to complete your qualification at a pace that works best for you.
You can complete this diploma in two years by studying at a pace equivalent to full-time. That’s similar to a student at a campus-based university.
You'll study 120 credits a year You'll need 32–36 hours per week
You can complete this diploma in four years by studying part-time. That’s roughly half the rate of a student on a full-time course at a campus-based university.
You'll study 60 credits a year You'll need 16–18 hours per week
At the OU, flexibility and support go hand in hand. You’ll be in control of when and where you study, with clear deadlines to guide your progress. Whether you’re balancing work, family or other commitments, our approach helps you fit learning into your life. Students consistently praise the support we provide, and from the very start, you’ll be part of a vibrant OU learning community.
As you progress through your qualification, you’ll have access to a dedicated online study space, expert tutor guidance, optional live tutorials, and a wide range of resources to help you succeed. The sections below outline what you can expect.
Your module website will be a central hub for your learning, giving you easy access to:
a weekly study planner, along with course materials like reading, videos, recordings, and self-assessed activities module discussion forums and collaborative activities to connect with other learners a clear overview of assignments and due dates tools to book tutorials, access online tutorial rooms, and contact your tutor.
Discover how the OU’s module websites, course materials, and support tools help you study online with confidence.
Each module has a dedicated tutor who will guide you through your studies. They’ll provide feedback, help you find resources, mark your assignments and support your learning journey.
For extra support, you can attend optional live tutorials with your tutor. These are usually conducted online, and most are recorded so you can review them later.
See how OU tutors and tutorials help you build confidence, connect with others, and get the support you need to succeed in your studies.
Our assessments reinforce what you’ve learned and show your understanding. Assessment types vary by module and may include:
Computer-Marked Assignments – often multiple-choice questions completed online. Tutor-Marked Assignments – tasks like essays, questions, experiments, or other activities. You’ll submit them by a set deadline and receive detailed feedback from your tutor. End-of-Module Assessments – These are the final marked assignments for most modules. Modules with an end-of-module assessment usually don’t have an exam. Exams – Some modules have exams you will sit remotely. However, we regularly review the assessments in our modules, so we may update the examination methods used in this qualification to include in-person exams or remotely invigilated (proctored) exams.
Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to a wide range of support services and be part of a vibrant learning community. Our subject-specific Student Support Teams can help with general queries and any updates to your OU account. You’ll also benefit from:
access to the OU’s extensive online library, filled with study resources the ability to use other university libraries across the UK and Ireland the online Help Centre, offering study tips and support free access to Microsoft Office 365 software IT support through our Computing Helpdesk the chance to connect with the OU community.
Discover the support network and learning tools you'll have access to throughout your studies.
There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification; however, Stage 1 includes a compulsory module, Questions in science (S111) – check you’re ready to study this module.
If you’ve studied at university level before, you may be able to transfer the academic credit you've been awarded towards an OU qualification. This could save you time and money by reducing the modules you need to study.
It’s not just university study that can be considered; you can also transfer study from a wide range of professional or vocational qualifications, such as HNCs and HNDs.
You should apply to transfer credit before registering, at least four weeks before the registration closing date. We will need to know what you studied, where, and when, and you will need to provide evidence of your previous study.
For more details and to download an application form, visit our Credit Transfer website.

4 years
£4,088*
A diploma is worth 240 credits. The fee per year is based on studying 60 credits per year for 4 years.
£16,352*
Our qualifications cost less than equivalent-level qualifications offered at campus-based universities.
Compare the cost of studying at the OU with other campus-based universities in England.
Honours Degree
Honours Degree
Total cost at campus university*
Total cost at campus university*
£29,370
£29,370
Total cost at The Open University**
Total cost at The Open University**
£24,528
£24,528
Saving with The Open University
Saving with The Open University
£4,842
£4,842
Diploma of Higher Education
Diploma of Higher Education
Total cost at campus university*
Total cost at campus university*
£19,580
£19,580
Total cost at The Open University**
Total cost at The Open University**
£16,352
£16,352
Saving with The Open University
Saving with The Open University
£3,228
£3,228
Certificate of Higher Education
Certificate of Higher Education
Total cost at campus university*
Total cost at campus university*
£9,790
£9,790
Total cost at The Open University**
Total cost at The Open University**
£8,176
£8,176
Saving with The Open University
Saving with The Open University
£1,614
£1,614
Qualification
Qualification
Total cost at campus university*
Total cost at campus university*
Total cost at The Open University**
Total cost at The Open University**
Saving with The Open University
Saving with The Open University
Honours Degree
Honours Degree
£29,370
£29,370
£24,528
£24,528
£4,842
£4,842
Diploma of Higher Education
Diploma of Higher Education
£19,580
£19,580
£16,352
£16,352
£3,228
£3,228
Certificate of Higher Education
Certificate of Higher Education
£9,790
£9,790
£8,176
£8,176
£1,614
£1,614
*Based on maximum chargeable fees for the 26/27 academic year.
**The fee information provided here is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2027. Fees typically increase annually. In England, fees are subject to the part-time fee limit, as set out in section 5 of the University's Fee Rules.
Your course fees cover your tuition, assessment and study materials, but there are still a few additional costs that can come with studying. For this qualification, these are:
a computer and the internet to access our learning resources and to participate in online tutorials. a charge to attend optional residential field schools embedded in S226 and S286. You must pay an additional charge for each residential school and your travel. See the individual module descriptions for more information.
*The fee information provided here is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2027. Fees typically increase annually. In England, fees are subject to the part-time fee limit, as set out in section 5 of the University's Fee Rules.

Over 85% of our students in England fund their studies with a Tuition Fee Loan, meaning they pay nothing upfront.
Repay in monthly instalments while you study.
Pay for each module with a debit or credit card in one quick, simple payment.
More than 1 in 10 OU students are sponsored by their employer.
Combine your payment options to fund your studies the way you want.
If you’re a serving member of the British Armed Forces (or you’ve recently left), you may be eligible to use ELCs to cover up to 100% of your course fees.
You may be eligible for:
help with study-related costs like set books and internet access a free introductory Access module to build your confidence and skills funding to study an OU qualification for free from our Carers’ Scholarships Fund if you are, or have recently been, an unpaid carer a Care Experienced Scholarship to study an OU qualification for free if you're care experienced and aged 25 and under a Sanctuary Scholarship to study an OU qualification for free if you’ve been displaced from your homeland for political, economic, ethnic, environmental, or human rights pressures funding from our Scholarship for Black Students to study an OU qualification for free if you identify as being from a Black background
The Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) is a government grant to cover study support costs if you have a disability. It’s not means-tested, and there’s no age limit. Visit our Supporting students with disabilities page to find out more. If your disability is a result of being injured in, or due to, military service, you could be eligible for our Disabled Veterans’ Scholarship Fund.
On completion of your biology diploma, you'll be an adaptable graduate with a range of transferable skills that are highly valued in the wider jobs market. You'll have developed analytical, numerical and problem-solving abilities and gained proficiency in data-handling, using computers as well as have team-working and communication skills. Employers may also look for evidence of practical laboratory or fieldwork experience to support the skills gained throughout the diploma. Even if your future job doesn't involve practical work, your experiences of designing, carrying out, trouble shooting and persistence in online or home-based investigations demonstrate valuable employability requirements.
Employers of biology graduates include central and local government, the NHS, the water and horticultural industries, food and drink companies, media and communications, multinational oil companies, the pharmaceutical industry, conservation bodies, schools and universities – in roles such as:
biotechnology and biomedical engineering data analysis, bioinformatics and diagnostics environmental management, protection and conservation exploration and extraction of natural resources health and healthcare-related professions product design and development research, investigation and laboratory work science information management science communication scientific and medical sales teaching (science is a shortage subject at secondary school level; there may be training incentives) waste management, recycling and sustainability.
Biology graduates are well-placed to enter scientific and non-scientific jobs and those with good communication and interpersonal skills are in demand. The logical, reasoned approach developed from biological study is relevant to a range of financial, business and public sector employment. Keep your future options open with an OU biology diploma.
Once you register with us (and for up to three years after you finish your studies), you’ll have full access to our careers service for a wide range of information and advice – including online forums, website, interview simulation, vacancy service, as well as the option to email or speak to a careers adviser. Some areas of the careers service website are available for you to see now, including help with looking for and applying for jobs. You can also read more general information about how OU study enhances your career.
In the meantime, if you want to do some research around this qualification and where it might take you, we’ve put together a list of relevant job titles as a starting point (note that some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience beyond your degree):
analytical scientist bioinformatics data analyst botanist countryside manager laboratory technician industrial researcher research scientist science administrator or manager science communicator science teacher scientific journalist technical consultant technical writer toxicologist zoologist.
Credit transfer: apply by 13/08/2026
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Credit transfer: apply by 13/08/2026
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