Biomedicine

Discover how the human body functions at every level – from genes and cells to organs and systems – and transform your curiosity into a career in science and innovation.

Course overview

Biology is a rich and dynamic field that explores everything from the structure of living organisms and their life cycles to how they adapt and interact with their environment. Biomedicine builds on this foundation, diving deeper into fascinating areas such as biochemistry, biotechnology, genetics, microbiology, and human physiology.

At Aston you'll benefit from expert teaching, cutting-edge research, and the chance to gain valuable real-world experience through an optional placement year. Our course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, recognising the strength of our curriculum and the high standard of graduate outcomes. High-performing students in their second year may also have the opportunity to progress onto our integrated master’s programme — preparing you to become a future innovator and leader in bioscience research and development.

Year 1 - Building Foundations
In your first year, you’ll explore core topics that form the basis of biomedicine. You’ll gain a solid understanding of biomolecules – their structure, function, synthesis, and breakdown – along with how genetic material is stored and inherited. You’ll also develop essential laboratory skills and learn how to work safely and confidently in practical settings.

Year 2 - Deepening Knowledge and Skills
In your second year, you’ll build on your knowledge developed in Year 1 and explore new and exciting areas of biomedicine. You’ll begin to apply scientific principles to experimental design and real-world scenarios, further developing your analytical, practical, and problem-solving skills.

Integrated Master's Option (MBiol Biomedicine)

Students achieving a minimum average of 65% in Year 2 will have the option to transfer onto the integrated MBiol Biomedicine programme. This extended degree is available as a four-year course (without placement) or a five-year course (with placement), offering an advanced route for those aiming for research-focused or leadership roles in biomedicine.

Placement year - Real-World Experience

Between your second and final year, you can choose to undertake an optional placement year to gain valuable, hands-on experience in a professional environment. This is your opportunity to put your knowledge into practice, build your network, and strengthen your CV. Our biosciences students have completed placements in a wide range of settings, including industry areas such as clinical trial companies, research institutes, breweries and the food industry, pharmaceutical companies, medical and biotechnology organisations.

Final Year / Penultimate MBiol Year – Specialisation and Research

In your final year, you’ll develop the skills needed to carry out a substantial original research project. You'll also have the flexibility to tailor your studies by selecting from a range of advanced topics aligned with your interests and career goals – helping you transition smoothly into employment or further academic study.

*Please note we do not offer a foundation programme, if you select year 0 on your application form this will be amended to year 1 at admissions review stage.

Year 1: Molecules | Cells to Systems | Microbiology and Genetics | Metabolic Physiology for Biology. Year 2: Molecular Biology and Biotechnology | Mechanisms of Pathology | Human Disease | Cell Signalling and Physiology. Year 3: Biosciences Placement Final Year: Research Project Preparation | Research Project | Professional Development for Biomedicine

Your learning journey is structured around 120 credits per academic year, with each credit representing approximately 10 hours of learning. These hours can include a blend of lectures, seminars, tutorials, lab work, practical sessions, online learning, independent study, reading, field trips, and even work placements – all designed to support your academic and professional development. Assessment is continuous and varied, helping you build a diverse skill set and stay engaged throughout the course. You’ll be evaluated through a combination of methods tailored to different learning outcomes, including: - Written exams and coursework - Scientific essays and laboratory reports - Practical assessments - Presentations and group projects - Peer review and reflective assignments This balanced and supportive approach ensures you graduate with the confidence, knowledge, and experience needed to succeed in a range of bioscience careers.

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• Royal Society of Biology