Biomedical Sciences with Integrated Placement Year

Discover the fascinating field of Biomedical Sciences, an interdisciplinary course focused on human health and disease. Our four-year Biomedical Sciences MSci will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the human body throughout life, in both health and illness, as well as covering the wide range of sciences that underpin human health. As well as having the opportunity to conduct a project in your third year, you’ll also undertake a further year-long research project in your fourth year through a placement either in industry or academia, gaining essential transferable skills for future employment or further education.

Our flexible course focuses on ensuring optimal health and performance throughout life and develops your problem-solving abilities to critically evaluate and tackle real-world biomedical challenges. Globally focused, the course is designed in alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal of ensuring healthy lives and promoting wellbeing for all at every age.

You will explore various biomedical disciplines including anatomy, genetics, pharmacology, immunology and biochemistry, all taught by leading experts at the forefront of each area and incorporating the latest research and innovations into your learning. With emphasis on collaborative skills including professional behaviour, teamwork and communication, you’ll be fully prepared for a career in health and disease. You’ll also gain an understanding of ethical considerations associated with responsible biomedical research, with an emphasis on sustainability and societal impact.

In year one, you’ll focus on your foundational knowledge across key areas including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, cell biology and pathology, within the wider context of emerging topics in science and society. You’ll also start building your basic laboratory skills and practical human physiology measurements such as nerve conduction and spirometry. Core academic skills such as study techniques, communication, digital literacy and experimental design and statistics will also be covered.
During your second year, you will deepen your understanding of the core disciplines and be introduced to immunology, microbiology and genetics, as well as a focus on the anatomy of the musculoskeletal system throughout life. You will further develop your key skills in digital and data analysis, with optional modules allowing you to pursue your own areas of interest.
In your third year, you will carry out a comprehensive year-long research project, which can include lab-based, bioinformatics, data analysis and systematic review/audit projects. You’ll refine your skills in scientific enquiry, literature review, experimental design and critical analysis. You will also engage with contemporary scientific issues and their broader societal implications, while continuing to tailor your learning through optional modules.
In the fourth year of the Biomedical Sciences MSci, you’ll further develop your transferable skills by completing an independent, year-long research project through a placement in either academia or industry.