Student Support
There are lots of ways you can get support during your studies to help you succeed.
University life is fun and exciting but sometimes we all face challenges and here you will find information on where you can find support and help if you ever need it. There are a variety of different teams and services across the University including those below.
Biology Teaching Organisation
In the School of Biological Sciences we have a Biology Teaching Organisation (BTO). The staff in this team manage all aspects of the administration and delivery of undergraduate and postgraduate taught teaching. Our aim is to support your academic journey from application through to graduation day and beyond. Our office in the James Clerk Maxwell Building (JCMB) at King's Buildings is usually open Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm.
Student Advisers
Within the Biology Teaching Organisation we have a team of Student Advisers. The team provide general support and guidance to students who are encountering difficulties with any aspect of University life. Where appropriate they will liaise with other University Support Services, so they are able to provide the best possible support and advice for you. They can also help with a wide range of administrative and practical issues to do with your degree programme.
Academic support
BioPALs
In first year, you can take part in BioPALS, which is a fortnightly Peer Assisted Learning session. Trained senior students will help you to help each other - both with studying biological sciences and university life in general - in an informal setting.
These sessions support the core biological sciences courses in Year 1 as well as exploring other useful topics such as finding an internship or looking for a flat. They are optional, but our students find them extremely valuable. They also provide an opportunity to get to know others in the School, both in first year, but also students in later year groups.
Transition to university
If you choose to study with us, over the summer we will ask you to complete two short workshops on Maths and Chemistry. These workshops have been designed to help with the transition into university, identifying any gaps in your knowledge and to help you get ready for the start of semester 1 teaching. These are mainly an opportunity to brush up on core topics, and to feel confident with starting the next stage of your journey.
Additional Support
Additional support is available from outside the School of Biological Sciences from many university services. These include, but are not limited to:
The IAD website contains resources with advice about studying techniques and good academic practice. The IAD also run workshops on topics like time management and preparing for exams, and offer one-to-one consultations.
Run by the Edinburgh University Students' Association, the Advice Place offers a free, independent and impartial source of information and advice. They can help with everything from academic matters through to finance and accommodation.
The Disability and Learning Support Service offers a wide range of support tailored to suit each student's individual needs, and how your disability, learning difference or health condition affects your studies. They can also support students who have temporary health issues affecting their ability to study e.g. a broken arm that makes it difficult for you to write.
If you are offered a place to study here and you have declared a disability, you should contact the Disability and Learning Support Service as early as possible so they can make arrangements for the start of your studies. You can also contact them if you would like any advice.
The Student Counselling Service offers a range of mental health support. From resources and activities to help you manage your own mental health, to counselling appointments with the team.
While university life is full of exciting opportunities, it can also be an overwhelming time. Use the Health and Wellbeing pages to find information on a range of services provided by the University and throughout Edinburgh to support your physical and mental wellbeing.