Biomedical Science

Deepen your understanding of human biology, diseases, infections, and the diagnostic tools and treatments to treat them. The Aston BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of biomedical science and the practical skills necessary to excel professionally. You will develop the skills required to work in an NHS pathology laboratory, undertake medical research, and understand the pharmaceutical industry. You’ll develop a thorough knowledge of the core principles of how the human body works and a deep understanding of the vital role biomedical scientists play in the healthcare sector.

Teaching at Aston is research-led, meaning that you will learn about the research our world-leading academics are undertaking, particularly in your final year. We also make sure you gain exposure to experienced biomedical scientists via guest lectures, so you can hear first-hand what this rewarding role is really like.

Key course benefits

• Dual Accreditation: The degree is recognised by both the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and the Royal Society of Biology (RSB), which adds value to your qualification.

• HCPC Registration: There is an opportunity to complete an Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) registration portfolio during the placement year, which allows you to register as a biomedical scientist with the HCPC (Health and Care Professions Council) on graduation, opening doors to a wider range of career opportunities.

• Top Ranked Programme: Aston's biosciences programmes are ranked 2nd in the UK for career prospects (Guardian, 2026 - Biology), so you're studying in a highly respected course.

Placement year
This is a 3 or 4 year programme with optional placement year. You’ll have the opportunity to use your placement year to complete a training portfolio within an IBMS-approved pathology laboratory, which means you can apply for the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) Certificate of Competence. After you graduate, you'll be able to register as a biomedical scientist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

Facilities

• Extensive and well-equipped laboratories with a variety of equipment designed to support your learning in an industry-relevant environment .

• Cutting edge laboratory equipment, such as: Various types of microscopes, including light microscopes, and fluorescence microscopes, spectrophotometers which are used to measure the absorption or emission of light by chemical substances, cell culture facility, flow cytometer, and bioanalyser, similar to what would be used in an NHS laboratory, polymerase chain reaction machines for DNA amplification, and electrophoresis tanks and gel documentation systems for separating and analysing DNA, RNA, and proteins.

• High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Gas Chromatography (GC) for separating and analysing complex mixtures of compounds.

Career prospects
Our Biomedical Science BSc (Hons) degree equips students with a strong foundation in human biology, laboratory skills, and clinical knowledge. Many graduates go on to become HCPC-registered Biomedical Scientists in NHS laboratories, while others pursue healthcare roles such as Physician Associate training or postgraduate medicine. Graduates also enter the pharmaceutical industry, pursue scientific writing careers, scientific research, or continue their studies through teaching certifications, an MSc masters study level, or a PhD.

Course Modules

Year 1

• Biomolecules.

• Cells to Systems

• Microbiology and Genetics.

• Metabolism and Physiology for BMS

Year 2

• Clinical Sciences

• Mechanisms of Pathology

• Cell Signalling and Physiology

• Clinical Genetics and Human Disease

Third Year/Placement Year

• Biosciences placement.

Final Year

• Immunology and inflammation

• Clinical and Food Microbiology

• Research Project Preparation

• Research Project

• Professional Skillls for Biomedical Scientists

Final Year Optional Modules (select one)

• Cancer Biology

• Applied Microbiology

• Advanced Molecular Biology

• Bench to Bedside

https://www.aston.ac.uk/study/courses/biomedical-science-bsc/september-2027

This programme utilises a range of different assessment types and the assessment strategy reflects the national educational requirements in the FHEQ and the requirements of the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). There is a wide range of assessments linked to learning outcomes such as exams, essay writing, practical and laboratory reports, presentations, and peer assessment.

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

• Biomedical Science, Institute of
• Royal Society of Biology